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.
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# 03-08-01-26-003 Cedar Creek Closure
The purpose of this order is to protect public health and safety during active forest restoration and hazardous fuels reduction operations. The closure area is subject to extreme safety hazards, including:Felling and removal of hazardous, dead, or unstable trees.Heavy machinery operations,…
Order# 03-08-26-002: Temporary Road Closure
The purpose of this Order is to protect public safety as there has been extensive damage to the roads from recent rain.Closure Area Includes:National Forest System Road (NFSR) 329 from the forest boundary within Township 14 South, Range 12 East, Section 2, New Mexico Meridian to the end of the road…
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 |
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!