Oliver Lee Memorial
00 review409 DOG CANYON RD, Alamogordo, New Mexico, 88310, United States
Oliver Lee Memorial
$10.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$18.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $10 per night for dry sites to $18 for sites with electric and water hookups. Walk-in first-come-first-serve sites may occasionally be available.
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About this campground
Where the Sacramento Mountains meet the desert floor, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park beckons adventurers with its dramatic canvas of rust-colored cliffs and endless sky. As daylight fades, the campground transforms into a front-row seat for nature's most spectacular light show, painting the mountainside in brilliant oranges and purples. Whether you're settling in with your RV or pitching a tent under the stars, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned between two worlds: the mystical dunes of nearby White Sands National Park and the rugged trails that climb into the mountains above. Modern amenities and pristine facilities ensure comfort without compromising the wild beauty that surrounds you.
Oliver Lee Memorial State Park provides diverse camping options, including sites for RVs, tents, and group camping. Dry and full-hookup sites are available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the weathered remnants of the Oliver Lee Ranch, where desert pioneers once carved out a life from this unforgiving landscape. The ghost of 'Frenchy' Rochas, a colorful character from the area's frontier days, seems to linger along the interpretive trails that wind through the old homestead. Evening programs bring these stories to life under starlit skies, while guided tours reveal hidden chapters of the Old West, from Apache passages to cattle baron conflicts that shaped the destiny of this rugged corner of New Mexico.
Weather and SeasonsEach season brings its own personality to this high desert oasis. Winter nights demand cozy sleeping bags as temperatures dip to a crisp 30°F, while afternoon sun warms the rocks to a pleasant 50°F. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched sanctuary where temperatures dance between 90°F and 95°F, perfect for early morning hikes and lazy afternoon siestas in the shade. But it's the shoulder seasons that truly shine here – spring and fall deliver crystalline skies and goldilocks temperatures that make every outdoor moment feel like a gift.
ElevationPerched at the dramatic threshold where desert meets mountain, the campground serves as your basecamp for vertical adventures. From this launching point at the mountain's base, ambitious hikers can challenge themselves with trails that surge upward an impressive 3,500 feet, transitioning from desert scrub to pine-scented heights. This unique positioning offers the best of both worlds – the accessibility of lower elevations with breathtaking access to the sky-scraping Sacramento peaks above.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at the mouth of Dog Canyon, where ancient forces sculpted towering walls that frame your camping experience. Spring brings an unexpected splash of color as hardy cacti burst into bloom, transforming the harsh landscape into a desert garden. The sweeping vistas of the Tularosa Basin stretch endlessly before you, a sea of sage and sand punctuated by distant mountain ranges. Just beyond, the Lincoln National Forest rises like a green island above the desert floor, its cool forests beckoning those seeking refuge from the sun-baked valleys below.
Geological RegionSoutheastern New Mexico reveals its geological soul at this remarkable convergence point, where the Sacramento Mountains thrust dramatically from the desert floor at Dog Canyon's entrance. This is a landscape written in stone – ancient seabeds lifted skyward, carved by wind and water into the rugged terrain that defines the region today. The proximity to Lincoln National Forest adds another layer to this geological tapestry, where elevation changes create distinct ecosystems stacked like pages in Earth's history book. Here, the forces that shaped the Southwest are on full display, from the basin below to the forested peaks above.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers some accessible trails and areas, but detailed ADA-compliance information is not provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some being able to accommodate large RVs. Specific site numbers like #24 and #26 were noted for being smaller than expected for large rigs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is variable; some sites are well-spaced and secluded, while others are near the main road and less private.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with shelters are preferable during hot weather. Sites like #40 are noted as level and suitable for small RVs. Dry sites generally provide better views.
Best CampsitesSite #4 mentioned as ideal by a reviewer. Sites #30 and #42 referenced positively. Sites with electrical hookups offer convenience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in information not explicitly provided.
Check-out
Checkout at 2 PM according to one review.
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limits mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit maximum guest limits or regulations mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spacious with some featuring covered picnic tables and fire pits. Sites arranged in loops with central restroom and shower facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveAmerica.com.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome first-come-first-serve sites may be available, but reviews suggest these can fill up quickly depending on cancellations.
Cancellation PolicySome reviews indicate potential issues with reservation systems; however, no explicit cancellation policy details provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and star gazing. Trails vary in difficulty, and the park's location provides breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
Hiking
Hiking options include the challenging Dog Canyon Trail (5.5 miles one way with significant elevation gain) and the Riparian Nature Trail, which offers a mix of short loops and rock scrambles. Trails are well-maintained but can be strenuous.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with sightings of tarantulas, rattlesnakes, swallows, and geckos commonly reported.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts interpretive programs and offers tours of the Oliver Lee Ranch House. Information about 'Frenchy,' who built many of the park's rock walls, is also available.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans occasionally in place during high fire danger.
- Quiet hours respected according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsRattlesnakes and tarantulas noted by reviewers. Steep trails demand caution, and the park can be windy during certain seasons.
Active alertsFire bans in place during high fire danger periods. Visitor center closures due to staffing issues.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
No information explicitly provided on emergency services, but Alamogordo has hospitals and police stations approximately 20 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season periods are not explicitly defined in the sources.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are located throughout the campground. Recycling specifics are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresIncludes Dog Canyon and nearby springs accessible via hiking trails.
Common complaintsReservation systems can lead to confusion. Water pressure in showers is occasionally low. Sites close to roads may lack privacy, and windy conditions are reported.
HostHosts frequently mentioned as friendly and helpful. Loan sleds for White Sands National Park visits and maintain cleanliness.
Campground Map
409 DOG CANYON RD, Alamogordo, New Mexico, 88310, United States
Driving directionsLocated approximately 12 miles SE of Alamogordo, NM. From Alamogordo, take US Hwy 54 South 8 miles. Turn left (east) on Dog Canyon Road and go 4 miles to the park.
Road access is straightforward with paved highways leading to the park. No information on seasonal closures or challenging terrain explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Alamogordo (12 miles / ~20 minutes), Cloudcroft (36 miles / ~45 minutes), White Sands National Park (~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
A Dollar General store is located 4 miles away, and Alamogordo (~20 minutes away) provides access to grocery stores, fuel stations, and chain restaurants.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Oliver Lee Memorial has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to attractions like White Sands National Park. Some complaints focus on campsite size and noise from nearby roads.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean and modern restrooms and showers, scenic views, friendly staff, and well-maintained trails are frequently noted. Many users appreciated the spacious campsites and easy access to hiking.
Common Concerns
Some users noted that certain campsites are smaller and difficult to access for large RVs. Noise from vehicles arriving late at night was another common issue.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sun protection and plenty of water for the challenging hikes. Reserve campsites in advance, as popular sites fill up quickly. Consider visiting in cooler months to avoid extreme heat.
Seasonal Insights
Winter months are preferred for cooler hiking conditions, while summer can be hot and windy. Spring offers blooming desert plants.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms are amazingly clean with modern facilities.' 2. 'The campsites are immaculate, with running water on site & a picnic table.' 3. 'Dog Canyon Trail is a pretty difficult 5.5mi out and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #24 is noted as spacious for trailers. Site #1 has hookups on the wrong side. Site #4 is praised for its views.
Accessibility Features
Most reviews do not specify detailed accessibility features, but the park includes some accessible site options.
Pet-Friendly Features
The park is described as dog-friendly, with some caution advised due to cactus and rough terrain.
Last updated August 10, 2025