Title refers to the potholes. Lots of potholes! But the sites—aside from one, which was practically a crater—were awesome from what I could tell. Like Laura suggested, these are the free versions of River Bridge campground. Cross the river and go to the right. The campsite I chose is on a portion of the road beyond what Google Maps has, so it's really off-grid. 😜You could fit two vehicles. I needed something that could put me close enough to Crater Lake NP (the official campgrounds were booked). I don't think it felt like an hour; I was distracted by the beautiful forest. I slept in my car and I think it was the best sleep I've had on this trip. Cool at night, the only sound I heard were the occasional and distant 4th of July fireworks.

It was an adventure to get to from route 36. It takes you on a forested, cliff-side adventure. There were a few downed trees that would have blocked the road, but luckily the paths are well-maintained. I came here on 4th of July weekend hoping that the crowds hadn't found it and sure enough, I mostly had the campground all to myself, aside from one couple and their dog. I heard a kid yelling in the distance so I'm guessing there's another campground nearby. There were about 5 or 6 sites to choose from. Most are right on the Susan River. Be prepared for bugs zzz-ing in your ear; bring mosquito spray. There is a water spigot and one toilet booth full of bullet holes that graciously had toilet paper. There are two info stations about respecting mountain lions and being mindful of fires. It looked as if the wood from those downed trees were shared to the campsites: free firewood! I didn't use them. I slept in my car. No reception for phones. Temperature in early July was pretty moderate.

The trees were a-shaking with cicada activity. I enjoyed staying here. I got a tip that deer were roaming through campsites so definitely keep your goodies locked up. The spot I chose was right by a water spout, bathroom, and wifi router. Even then the connection wasn't too strong.

If there's no availability at the other campgrounds at Guadalupe Mountains NP, the rangers may take a pity on you and put you up at Frijole Horse Campground (out at the stables) if there are no reservations. Definitely try to reserve a site at the other campgrounds first.

If you're lucky to get a spot, there are two campsites; one is on a raised platform. There are parking spots, one is a handicap spot.

The toilets are standard. You hear coyotes celebrating at night. The sunsets out at the stables make you feel like a cowboy/cowgirl/cowperson.

I went with a group of friends outside of rainy season but it was still pretty wet. The day before we arrived, a bear had ransacked a campsite, so be careful not to leave any goodies in your tent.

We had room for two mid-size vehicles and eight people. Site 12 is right by the river and super close to trails. I probably don't need to sell Olympic to you, but it's magical. Be prepared for being wet.

I loved Group Site#7. I stayed for two nights in mid-April and enjoyed it. It was secluded enough that I felt comfortable changing our clothes out in the open. A variety of critters casually passed through our campsite, like rabbits, a garter snake, chipmunks, a family of quails, and a hummingbird or two. It was fun hanging with our animal friends, climbing the granite boulders that act as privacy walls. I'd love to return with an actual group for an even cozier feel. What I didn't like was the crazy cold wind, which made it difficult to secure our meal setup and fire. It also made the stinky smell from the bathrooms waft the area a bit. However, when your tent is further out, you don't smell anything.

The javelina can knock over your campsite if you're not careful.

I was going to try out a BLM spot closer to Great Basin but it didn't work out. Luckily this campground was only 20 min away and honestly, in far better shape. I rolled in, very exhausted, at 11pm. I quickly checked out the rules and map at the entrance and easily found a spot to back into. The next morning I got an eye full of stunning views and a nice campground. I'd go as far as to say it seems better maintained than natl park campgrounds. Make sure to bring your own toilet paper.

This was my first time using Dyrt and accessing BLM/public land. The campgrounds at Black Canyon OTG were packed and hotels in the area were outrageously priced (2-star hotel for $200). I got in at around 7/8pm. I slept in my car and enjoyed it! You can totally car/tent camp or RV it; whatever. Just respect the land. The roads further in are "fun". My stock-wheeled SUV did ok on them but if you have a trailer, it might be hard to turn around. If you're low-to-the-ground car, don't bother going back there. All-terrainers will be fine. Some sites look like they're made for one, but you can probably squeeze in 2 or 3 for anyone traveling as a group. Megafauna: I saw deer on my way out. I was fearful of bears but the natl park literature I got later didn't list them. So you're probably good. Obviously, no toilets except at the park.

Verizon LTE unstable 1-2 bars. So close to the park that you can get there early and beat the crowds.