Tent camping near Timberon, New Mexico presents a diverse range of experiences across Lincoln National Forest's rugged terrain. Located in the Sacramento Mountains at elevations between 6,500-9,000 feet, the area creates a natural temperature refuge with summer temperatures 15-20 degrees cooler than the surrounding desert basin. Fall camping brings dramatic temperature swings, with daytime highs near 70°F dropping to freezing overnight.
What to do
Wildlife watching opportunities: Lincoln National Forest camping areas offer excellent wildlife viewing, especially during dawn and dusk hours. At Lower Karr Canyon Campground, camper Brittany N. noted it has "hiking trails" with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Morgan E. reported seeing "plenty of wildlife including elk, wild turkey, and mule deer."
Fall foliage drives: The mountain roads transform during autumn with vibrant color displays. According to Brittany N., Lower Karr Canyon Road is "one of my favorite roads to drive down in fall" with its scenic beauty and multiple camping spots along the way.
Backcountry hiking: For more adventurous campers, the primitive tent sites provide access to backcountry trails. The Backcountry Primitive Sites at White Sands National Park offer a completely different desert camping experience within driving distance. Ronnie M. describes the experience: "It's a tough hike in depending on your pack and the sites are as bare as it gets, but the scenery makes this place what it is. Beautiful."
What campers like
Seclusion factor: Many Lincoln Forest campsites provide genuine isolation from crowds. Stephanie D. appreciated Lower Karr Canyon's seclusion: "We went for Labor Day weekend, we had a blast because we were able to stay secluded and enjoy it! Plenty of trees!"
Temperature relief: The higher elevation camping areas offer significant temperature advantages. At James Canyon Campground, Colin M. noted "Surrounding area was up to 110 and was 85 when we pulled in here and thankfully down to 55 at night."
Rustic accommodations: The simple, no-frills camping appeals to those seeking authentic outdoor experiences. Jorge G. described Lower Karr Canyon as "rustic, no amenities other than the pit toilet which is just fine. The sites are on the other side of a closed bridge, so you gotta carry your stuff a quarter of a mile or so for the sites furthest away from the parking area."
Stargazing conditions: The remote locations offer minimal light pollution. At White Sands, Molly G. observed "with the moonlight reflecting off the sand, it almost felt like daytime! Catching the sunrise is worth the early wake up."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have no reliable communication. Jorge G. noted at Lower Karr Canyon: "being deep in the canyon means that there's no cell signal unless you hoof it a fair bit up a hill."
Water requirements: Potable water is scarce at most sites. Scott F. confirms that at James Canyon, there are "bear proof trash cans at the entrance, along with an outhouse at the far edge of the parking lot" but no water facilities.
Access challenges: Some sites require substantial effort to reach. The Dry Canyon Near Hang Glider Launch area offers excellent tent camping but Mark G. warns "the trail up to the camping spots is steep, washed out, and tight. Can be navigated with a stock 4x4 pick up."
Noise considerations: While generally quiet, some sites have unexpected noise sources. Mark G. notes Dry Canyon has "a gun range at the bottom, so you'll hear gun shots til sundown. Also, a little highway noise is present in the distance."
Tips for camping with families
Group facility options: For larger family gatherings, consider dedicated group sites. The Lincoln National Forest Slide Group Campground is ideal for family reunions. Ron G. reports it "easily held 3 RVs and 20 people. They provide 300 gallons of water in a tank. Behind the campground is a hiking trail."
Site selection strategy: Families should prioritize campgrounds with appropriate facilities. Brittany S. noted James Canyon "has a whole lot to offer! There are vault toilettes (no sinks-so bring your hand sanitizer), there is a fire pit with metal rack at every site along with picnic tables."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Laila K. advises for James Canyon: "It gets really cold. There was not much wood so I'd recommend bringing some."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility limits: Many forest campgrounds have significant RV restrictions. Roger W. emphasizes at James Canyon Campground "There are only two sides when you can accommodate an RV. A couple folks parked in the parking lot overnight... much over 22' would be difficult."
Backup plans: Limited availability requires flexibility. Roger W. observed "For a stop over: 4. Price 2024: Free... both RV sites are back in. A little bit of extra work is required to back the trailer down to go to one of the two site."
