Black Bear Gc
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.
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…
Current Prescribed Fire Updates
As prescribed fire is implemented on the Lincoln National Forest this alert page will be updated to share current conditions, planned work or postponed burns.16 Springs Crooked Prescribed Pile Burn - 153 acresSeptember 19, 2026 - Press Release for Planned Prescribed Fires on the Lincoln National…
Order# 03-08-02-26-001: 69kV Power Line Maintenance and Hazard Tree Reduction
The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety. Work within this corridor during this timeframe will include large machinery and aircraft.
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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