Bonito Creek
Open year-round. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect through September 30, 2026, prohibiting campfires in dispersed camping areas. Only pressurized LPG/propane stoves are permitted. No reservations; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Flood Watch issued July 20 at 4:48PM MDT until July 21 at 6:00PM MDT by NWS Albuquerque NM
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...A portion of central New Mexico, including the following area, South Central Mountains. * WHEN...Tuesday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Another round of showers and thunderstorms are expected on Tuesday afternoon across the South Central Mountains. Storms will move toward the north and northwest around 5 to 10 mph. Rainfall rates over 1 inch per hour are expected in the stronger storms. Rapid runoff will lead to flash flooding, especially where the ground is saturated from recent heavy rainfall. This includes downstream of the South Fork and Salt burn scars. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
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…
Order# 03-08-01-26-001: Seven Cabins Fire Closure Amended
The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety. These areas are subject to flooding effects through monsoon season and conditions could become hazardous.Closure area includes The Capitan Mountain area, from Capitan Pass along Forest Road 56 and 5643, east along the Forest…
About
Upper Bonito Dispersed Recreation Area sits at the end of Forest Road 107 in scenic Bonito Canyon within Lincoln National Forest. This free dispersed camping destination offers primitive campsites scattered along Bonito Creek, with the most scenic spots located directly on the creek. The area provides a true backcountry experience with minimal facilities. The recreation area serves as a popular gateway to the adjacent White Mountain Wilderness Area, providing direct access to wilderness trails for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water, trash service, or other developed amenities. Campers must be fully self-sufficient, bringing their own water and packing out all trash. Access is via Forest Road 107 past Bonito Lake, approximately 7 miles of forest road driving. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. The area tends to be busy during summer weekends, so early arrival is recommended for the best site selection.
Directions
From Ruidoso, travel north on NM 48, turn left onto NM 37, then after approximately 1.5 miles turn onto Forest Road 107. Continue past Bonito Lake for roughly 7 miles to reach the area at the junction of Forest Roads 107 and 108.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (575) 434-7200 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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