Aspen Group Area (Lincoln National Forest, Nm)
4.669 reviewsPO BOX 836, CLOUDCROFT, NM, 88317, USA
Aspen Group Area (Lincoln National Forest, Nm)
$123.00 - $154.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$154.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group site fees vary based on the size of the group: 1–30 people $123/night, 31–70 people $154/night. Displayed rates do not include taxes, discounts, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched high in the Sacramento Mountains at 9,000 feet, Aspen Group Area offers an exclusive mountain retreat designed for groups seeking adventure together. Here, where mountain breezes whisper through towering pines, firs, and shimmering aspens, you'll discover a cool-weather sanctuary far above the desert floor. This group-only campground in Lincoln National Forest creates the perfect basecamp for unforgettable gatherings, where breathtaking vistas and crisp mountain air set the stage for memories that last a lifetime.
Aspen Group Area is designed exclusively for group camping and does not support individual reservations.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping in legendary territory—Lincoln National Forest holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Smokey Bear, America's beloved fire prevention icon. The area's rich heritage extends beyond forest lore; a short drive takes you to Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, where the preserved 19th-century ranch tells tales of frontier life, cattle drives, and the rugged individuals who shaped New Mexico's wild landscapes.
Weather and SeasonsEscape the heat in this high-altitude haven where summer temperatures rarely climb above a comfortable 75°F. The elevation gifts visitors with refreshingly cool mornings and pleasant afternoons, even when the valleys below swelter. While winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland (though reservations aren't available during these months), the peak camping season brings ideal conditions—crisp, dry days perfect for hiking and crystal-clear nights ideal for stargazing around the campfire.
ElevationAt 9,000 feet above sea level, this mountain aerie delivers the cool-weather camping experience many crave. The thin air at this elevation not only provides natural air conditioning but also brings you closer to pristine night skies. Visitors should take it easy their first day—the altitude can leave lowlanders breathless until they acclimate. But once adjusted, you'll find the crisp mountain air invigorating and the elevated perspective absolutely worth it.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views that stretch across Dog Canyon to the vast Tularosa Basin below, a vista that shifts with the light from dawn to dusk. The surrounding mixed conifer forest creates a living cathedral of pine and fir, punctuated by groves of quaking aspens that burst into golden flames each fall. This diverse ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife—black bears lumber through the underbrush, elk bugle during autumn rut, mule deer graze in meadows, and roadrunners dash between the trees, bringing the high country to life with their presence.
Geological RegionThe Sacramento Mountains rise dramatically from the Chihuahuan Desert, creating a sky island ecosystem where Aspen Group Area makes its home. This unique geological setting in south-central New Mexico combines the best of multiple worlds—dense forests of pine and fir mingle with stands of white-barked aspens, all perched above dramatic overlooks of Dog Canyon and the sprawling Tularosa Basin. The result is a landscape of stunning contrasts, where mountain meets desert and forest meets sky in one of New Mexico's most spectacular settings.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not described in available materials.
Sites SizeThe site can host group sizes ranging from 4 to 70 people.
Sites PrivacyThis is a group site, so privacy between individual groups or users is not a feature.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose early dates in the season to enjoy cooler temperatures and more availability.
Best CampsitesCampsite 1 is the sole site available within this group-only campground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2 PM.
Check-out
By 12 PM.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 70 guests per group site.
Groups
The site accommodates groups of 4 to 70 people and provides a covered Ramada, picnic tables, and fire pits. Vehicles are limited to around eight parking spots.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has a single group site with parking for up to 8 vehicles. Includes a covered Ramada and multiple tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 16 – September 7. Closed for reservations from September 8 to May 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific walk-up availability listed. Reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes also incur a $10 processing fee for a completely new set of dates.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Aspen Group Area offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily focused on hiking. The Osha Trail, a popular 2.5-mile loop, is located nearby. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with opportunities to see deer, elk, and even roadrunners. The Rim Trail, a 32-mile multi-use trail, can be accessed within a quarter mile of the campground and supports hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Hiking
Hiking trails surround the campground, including the Osha Trail, which is a 2.5-mile loop. The trails to Alamo Peak and Stark Peak offer overlooks with stunning views. The Rim Trail, a 32-mile-long multi-use trail, is a short distance away.Biking
The Rim Trail supports mountain biking and is easily accessible, located just 0.25 miles from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can expect to see elk, deer, and bears in the area. Roadrunners are also sometimes spotted.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Subject to fire restrictions depending on weather. Restrictions may prohibit campfires and charcoal fires.
- Quiet hours are Not specifically listed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential for bear activity. Campers are advised to store food properly and be cautious. Forest fires may lead to temporary restrictions on fires and charcoal use.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed in dry conditions.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
The nearest emergency services are likely in nearby Cloudcroft (~2 miles), which offers a limited range of services. For major emergencies, Alamagordo (~20 miles) is the closest large city with hospitals and other facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 – September 7 each year.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are provided, and trash is removed daily by the campground staff.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes or rivers are immediately adjacent to the campground. Nearby trails offer scenic overlooks.
HostAccording to reviews, a camp host is available to assist with firewood and ensure the cleanliness of facilities.
Campground Map
PO BOX 836, CLOUDCROFT, NM, 88317, USA
Driving directionsIn southeast New Mexico, approximately 20 miles east of Alamagordo. From Alamagordo take US 82 east and go 16 miles. Just before Cloudcroft, turn right (South) on NM 130. Go 1.4 miles. Turn left (east) on Forest Road 24B, go 0.5 miles. Aspen Group Area is on the left across from Black Bear Group Area.
Accessible via paved roads until NM 130. Forest Road 24B may require caution due to being unpaved but manageable for most vehicles.Nearby places
Cloudcroft: ~2 miles
Alamagordo: ~20 miles.
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, including groceries and gas, can be found in Cloudcroft (~2 miles). For more comprehensive shopping, Alamagordo (~20 miles) provides larger stores and more options.
Camper Reviews
4.7
9 reviews
Aspen Group Area (Lincoln National Forest, Nm) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness and maintenance of the campground, the friendliness of the camp host, and the beautiful natural surroundings.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-kept facilities, daily trash removal, clean restrooms, and a camp host that checks in on guests. Scenic views and opportunities for wildlife viewing are frequently mentioned.
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited space for trailers, as noted in one review. No significant complaints were observed in the reviews provided.
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water if visiting outside of peak season when water facilities are unavailable on-site. Plan for group activities as the site is designed for group use.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with reviews praising the cool mountain breezes and lush surroundings. Fall and spring seasons were not referenced in reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Such a lovely place to camp! It was well kept and had a big covered area with plenty of tables for many guests.' - Sven Sears
2. 'The Aspen campground was very well-maintained. The restrooms were...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 (Loop: Aspen) is repeatedly reviewed positively for cleanliness and the helpfulness of the camp host. One user mentioned seeing elk and deer directly in the campsite.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025