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Lincoln/Sleepy Grass Campground
Overview
Lincoln/Sleepy Grass Campground offers a refreshing high-altitude retreat within the Lincoln National Forest. Situated at an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet, this destination provides a significant break from the desert heat of southern New Mexico. The park is characterized by its lush stands of ponderosa pine and aspen trees, creating a serene atmosphere where the scent of evergreen fills the air. It serves as a premier gateway to the Sacramento Mountains for travelers seeking a quiet, primitive camping experience surrounded by nature.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is conveniently located just a short drive from the charming mountain village of Cloudcroft, NM. This location allows visitors to feel completely immersed in the wilderness while remaining minutes away from local conveniences. The surrounding terrain is defined by rolling ridges and deep canyons, offering panoramic mountain views that change with the shifting light. The high elevation ensures that even mid-summer days remain comfortably cool and crisp, making it a seasonal favorite for those exploring the region.
Amenities & Park Features
As a Forest Service site, the amenities here focus on the essentials for a rustic stay. Visitors will find vault toilets and potable water available during the peak season. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. It is important to note that there are no hookups or dump stations on-site, making it an ideal choice for self-contained RVs or those practiced in the art of dry camping. The sites are generally well-spaced to ensure a sense of privacy.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the direct access to several recreational opportunities from the camp. The Osha Trail is a popular nearby hike that offers moderate difficulty and stunning vistas of the Tularosa Basin. A short trip into the village of Cloudcroft allows travelers to explore local shops, craft breweries, and historical sites like the Mexican Canyon Trestle. Wildlife viewing is also a primary draw, as elk and mule deer are frequently spotted wandering through the meadow areas near the campsites.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is a premier choice for boondockers and nature photographers who prioritize scenery and tranquility over luxury resort amenities. Because the interior roads can be narrow and winding, it is best suited for small to mid-sized travel trailers, camper vans, and truck campers. If you enjoy unplugging from technology and falling asleep to the sound of wind through the pines, this park fits your travel style perfectly. It is a top recommendation for families seeking an authentic mountain camping experience.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
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- On-Site Rentals
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User Reviews
Carlos Villasenor
Really nice place — quiet and peaceful if you don’t have party neighbors or small kids around. Clean restrooms and available water. Little expensive $30 per night or $38 double table and camping (famili size) The hosts were a bit grumpy (aug2-3,2025)
Adrian Delgado
The campground is located on a old river bank so the wind isn’t blowing too much as other points of the Lincoln National Forest, restrooms are clean and the Park Ranger is friendly
Michael Murphy
Been camping here on and off for decades. Started in the 70’s with my dad and now I bring my grandson. It’s always worth the extra days and miles. Even the primitive camping is great.
Joseph Ehlers
Don’t come during the weekend. Sites are close together so unfortunately you have to hear there entire conversations. Also there was a big family with barking dogs, kids being loud and music playing. I like go camping and hearing nature with the occasional human sounds. But not all around you! Probably wont come again unless the campground is completely empty. That way other people are like 100ft or more away from me. Also i need to chose to go dispersed camping in the middle of nowhere more
ZulMol30
The service is horrible. The ranger yelled at us for a dumb rule that we didn’t know they had (parking our truck on the grass). He could’ve came civilized. But came storming in his “little” golf cart, almost very close to hitting our kids that were walking on the pathway of our camp area. He had a very bad attitude and peeled out on his “little” golf cart. BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE. The people from Cloudcroft seem to have that attitude for tourists, nothing new. Plus they need us (tourists) for their town to thrive… we deserve better treatment.