Open

Open for the 2026 season as of May 15. The campground operates seasonally through late September or October, weather dependent. Reservation only through Recreation.gov. Campers must call 575-682-1518 before arrival to obtain the gate lock combination.

Lincoln National Forest

Cannabis Possession Prohibited

Order 03-00-00-21-002 prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting a cannabis plant, any part of a cannabis plant, or any substance derived from a cannabis plant within the Southwestern Region National Forests in the State of New Mexico and the National Grasslands in the states of Texas and…

Lincoln National Forest

Order# 03-08-01-26-002: Area and Trails Closure

The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety. These areas are subjectto continued flooding effects through monsoon season and conditions have becomehazardous. Repair and maintenance will be identified and prioritized, to complete the workneeded to protect public health and…

Lincoln National Forest

Order# 03-08-01-26-001: Seven Cabins Fire Closure

The purpose of this Order is to protect health and safety during fire suppression and rehabilitation activities.Closure area includes The Capitan Mountain area, from the HWY 246 around the Forest Service boundary and south to the South Base Trail System.

About

Black Bear Group Area sits at 9,000 feet elevation in the Sacramento Mountains of south-central New Mexico, within Lincoln National Forest near the village of Cloudcroft. This reservation-only group campground accommodates up to 70 people and features a covered ramada/pavilion, vault toilets, picnic tables, grills, and campfire pits. The open grassy area provides space for group activities and sports. The campground is surrounded by aromatic pine trees and aspen groves, with views overlooking the desert valley of the Tularosa Basin. Wildlife including elk, deer, birds, and black bear can be spotted in the area. The site connects to a network of hiking and biking trails, including the 2.5-mile Osha Trail loop and the nearby Rim Trail popular for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Additional trails in the area are open to ATVs. Cloudcroft is just one mile away, offering amenities and New Mexico's only standing railroad trestle. Campers should note there is no potable water at this site; water may be obtained at nearby Sleepy Grass Campground through Labor Day. A lock combination is required for entry and must be obtained by calling the facility prior to arrival.

Directions

From Cloudcroft, head south on NM 130 for 1 mile, then turn left onto Forest Road 24B (across from Deerhead Campground). The entrance is on the right side. Alternatively, from Alamogordo take US 82 east for 16 miles; just before Cloudcroft, turn right (south) on NM 130.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $123 - $154

Vehicle

Max RV Length 26ft
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites

Contact

Phone +1 (575) 682-1518

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

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