Camping at Lincoln National Forest

Overview of Lincoln National Forest

Lincoln National Forest covers over 1 million acres in southeastern New Mexico, USA. Named after President Abraham Lincoln, the forest is famed for its diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain peaks to desert vegetation. It is also home to Smokey Bear, the symbol of wildfire prevention, and his final resting place is located at the Smokey Bear Historical Park in Capitan, New Mexico. The forest is divided into three ranger districts: Smokey Bear, Sacramento, and Guadalupe.

Camping Information

Types of Camping

• Developed Campgrounds: The forest offers several developed campgrounds with amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and potable water.

• Dispersed Camping: For a more primitive experience, visitors can engage in dispersed camping outside of designated campgrounds across much of the Lincoln National Forest.

• Group Camping: Some sites are designed to accommodate larger groups and may offer additional facilities to support group activities.

Permits and Fees

• Campground Fees: Many developed campgrounds in the forest require a usage fee. Fees vary depending on the site and facilities available.

• Reservations: Some campgrounds accept reservations, which can be made through Recreation.gov, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Wilderness Permits: Some areas, especially designated wilderness areas, might require a permit for overnight stays. Information on permits can be obtained from local ranger stations.

General Regulations

• Campfire Safety: Always follow campfire regulations and restrictions. During certain times of the year, fire danger is high and restrictions or bans may be in place.

• LNT Principles: Follow the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles to minimize your impact on the natural environment.

• Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and secure food to avoid attracting animals to your campsite.

• Stay Limit: There is often a limit on the number of consecutive days you can stay in one location, typically 14 days.

• Trash: Pack out all trash, as many sites do not offer trash collection services.

Prepare for Your Trip

• Weather: Elevations vary greatly in the forest, so weather can range from hot in the lower elevations to cold in the mountains. Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

• Supplies: Bring all necessary supplies, including water, or a way to purify it if not available on-site.

• Maps and Information: Obtain maps and regional information from local ranger stations or the forest's website prior to your trip, especially if you plan to visit remote or less developed areas.

Wilderness Areas

Within Lincoln National Forest, there are multiple wilderness areas that offer a more remote and primitive camping experience:

• White Mountain Wilderness: A rugged area with high elevations, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes.

• Capitan Mountains Wilderness: Known for its historical significance related to the Smokey Bear story, it's an area that provides solitude and wilderness experience.

Activities in Lincoln National Forest

The forest offers a variety of recreational activities:

• Hiking and Backpacking: Trails of varying lengths and difficulties, including portions of the long-distance Grandview Trail.

• Horseback Riding: Equestrian trails are available in some areas of the forest.

• Wildlife Viewing: Abundant opportunities to see wildlife, including deer, elk, and a variety of bird species.

• Winter Sports: Snow-based activities like skiing and snowshoeing are popular in higher elevations during the winter.

Remember Safety and Respect

When enjoying the Lincoln National Forest, always prioritize safety and respect for the environment. Inform someone about your travel plans before heading out, especially if you are going into less populated areas. Following these guidelines will ensure a memorable and safe camping experience in one of New Mexico's beautiful natural forests.