Mccrystal Campground

About

McCrystal Campground occupies a scenic ponderosa pine forest in the Valle Vidal Unit of Carson National Forest, directly across from the historic Ring Place Ranch. This 55-site campground serves as a base for exploring one of New Mexico's premier wildlife areas, where elk, bear, and other wildlife roam freely. A self-guided interpretive trail leads from the campground entrance to a pioneer cabin at Ring Place Ranch. The campground accommodates both standard campers and equestrians, with 6 designated horse camping sites featuring corrals and access to two shared water troughs. All sites include picnic tables. Facilities are primitive with vault toilets but no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Access requires navigating approximately 28 miles of gravel road from Cimarron via Highway 64 and Forest Service Road 1950. These roads are not maintained during rainy season and may require four-wheel drive. The Valle Vidal east side, where McCrystal is located, closes annually January 1 through March 31 to protect wintering elk habitat.

Directions

From Cimarron, drive 5 miles northeast on Highway 64 to Cerrososo Canyon. Follow the canyon approximately 21 miles to the Valle Vidal Unit boundary. From the boundary, travel 7 miles on Forest Service Road 1950 to the campground. Total distance is about 36 miles from Cimarron. Gravel roads are not maintained during rainy season and may require four-wheel drive.