Best Tent Camping near Weed, NM
Lincoln National Forest offers several tent camping options near Weed, New Mexico, with sites ranging from established campgrounds to dispersed areas. James Canyon Campground provides tent-only sites with basic amenities, while Lower Karr Canyon Campground offers a more remote tent camping experience. Dry Canyon Near Hang Glider Launch provides dispersed tent camping opportunities for those seeking fewer restrictions and more solitude.
Most tent sites in the area feature fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, though drinking water is rarely available. James Canyon Campground has six tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables, but campers must bring their own water. A review noted, "The site I stayed at had a fire ring/grill, picnic table and a tent pad. One of the sites had an Adirondack shelter." Tent campers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially at higher elevations where wind can be significant. Road access varies, with some sites requiring high-clearance vehicles or short hikes from parking areas.
Tent camping in this region provides excellent access to hiking trails and natural features. The higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler temperatures during summer months, making them popular tent destinations when lower elevations become too hot. Areas like Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area provide tent sites along creek beds with toilet facilities but minimal other amenities. A visitor commented that it's "a nice area to spend with another person and even with kids, restrooms are clean, there's some privacy if you find a good spot." Most tent sites fill quickly on weekends during peak season (May through October), so arriving early is recommended. The surrounding forest provides ample shade at most locations, though some dispersed areas may have limited tree cover depending on elevation and past wildfire activity.