Accessible via a rough dirt road that requires careful driving for the final two miles, Lower Karr Canyon Campground sits about six miles from the main highway at High Rolls. This walk-in Forest Service campground operates from mid-May through mid-September, requiring campers to carry gear across a closed bridge to reach sites that extend up to a quarter-mile from the parking area.
The forested canyon setting blocks cell service unless campers hike uphill. Sites spread along the access road provide vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, with trash service available during the operating season. Jorge G. notes it's "a very secluded experience despite being so close to Cloudcroft/Alamogordo." Multiple reviewers report seeing elk, wild turkey, and mule deer throughout the area.
The campground draws visitors seeking isolation, though some sites show evidence of campers leaving food waste that attracts wildlife. Several dispersed camping options exist nearby, including Forest Road 634 - Dispersed Site and Lincoln NF Dispersed near High Rolls. Campers should pack out all trash and secure food properly, as animals have become accustomed to finding leftovers at some sites.
Description
Lower Karr Canyon Campground has undeveloped campsites scattered above and below the Karr Canyon Picnic Area. Forest Road 63 is gravel and can be rough. Fire rings are available. Tent camping is allowed here and there are a number of lovely spots for you to choose from, all of which are accessible by walking in to the site from the parking area.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsLower Karr Canyon Campground is located in New Mexico near Lincoln National Forest
Directions
From the Village of High Rolls along US82, turn south onto Forest Road 63 (Karr Canyon Road). Continue for approximately 5 miles, the campground will be on the right side of the road. The last 1 mile is a dirt road. This road can be closed during winter months due to heavy snows.
Coordinates
32.89900098 N
105.81300067 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/5/26- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/12/26
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/5/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/12/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 32 min from Las Cruces, NM
- 1 hr 39 min from El Paso, TX
- 3 hrs 18 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 3 hrs 41 min from Santa Fe, NM
