A large cul-de-sac layout with fire rings and treed camping areas, Upper Karr Canyon Campground sits within Lincoln National Forest outside Cloudcroft at no cost to visitors. Access is paved, which keeps the entry smooth even for smaller rigs, though RVs are limited to 16 feet and the picnic tables and fire rings are not immediately adjacent to the parking area. Tent campers fare best here. The setup is walk-in, so van campers and larger rigs may find the logistics frustrating.
Pine forest surrounds the cul-de-sac, and campers willing to hike a short distance into the trees can find their own site away from the main area. An old logging road leads back to a meadow with a small pond, and reviewers have noted deer and elk in the area. Downed wood is available for gathering. The Karr Trail connects from the campground and runs back toward a small private ranch. On busy weekends, particularly holidays, the site can fill with day users and overnight campers alike, so arriving early gives the best pick of spots.
Cell signal is unreliable here. One reviewer noted no Verizon coverage at the campground itself, with only a single bar available closer to the Village of Cloudcroft. A transistor radio picks up NOAA weather clearly, which matters given the elevation and the site's exposure to winter snow and summer temperature swings. Toilets are on-site near the parking area. Campers looking for dog-friendly camping near Lincoln National Forest will find this site fits, as pets are permitted. Lincoln NF Dispersed off FR 634 is a close alternative for those who prefer a more dispersed setup.
Description
Upper Karr Canyon Campground is located off of NM6563 (the Sunspot Scenic By-way) and has a 200 person capacity There are 2 fire rings, toilet, and garbage depositories are provided. RVs limited 16'.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsUpper Karr Canyon Campground is located in New Mexico near Lincoln National Forest
Directions
From Cloudcroft, take NM130 south and turn right onto NM6563 (Sunspot Scenic Byway). Continue along the Sunspot Highway for around 7 miles and to your left, just over the ridge you'll see a sign for the Upper Karr Recreation Area. This road can be difficult to spot so keep your eyes open.
Coordinates
32.88032303 N
105.779894 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Upper Karr Canyon Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 47 min from Las Cruces, NM
- 1 hr 54 min from El Paso, TX
- 3 hrs 33 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 3 hrs 56 min from Santa Fe, NM












