Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)
4.6424 reviews901 MECHEM DR.
Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)
$40.00 - $125.00 / 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$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group shelter non-electric sites are priced at $40 per day/night during peak season, while group standard electric sites cost $125 per day/night. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled on the pine-scented outskirts of Ruidoso, Cedar Creek—fondly known as the Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground—beckons groups seeking an authentic New Mexico mountain escape. This thoughtfully designed retreat within Lincoln National Forest welcomes gatherings of 60 to 100 people across three spacious group sites, each offering the perfect basecamp for family reunions, scout troops, or outdoor clubs. By day, explore winding mountain bike trails, spot elk grazing in meadow clearings, or gather your crew at the shaded group picnic pavilion. As evening falls, the forest comes alive with the sounds of nature while your group shares stories around the campfire under star-studded skies.
Cedar Creek features group camping options with accessible picnic shelters and basic amenities. Individual tent camping and RV camping are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Cedar Creek, where every towering pine tells a story of America's most beloved conservation icon. This special corner of Lincoln National Forest holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Smokey Bear, the nation's wildfire prevention symbol who has educated generations about forest stewardship. As you explore these historic woodlands, you're walking the same paths that inspired one of the most successful public service campaigns in history—a legacy that continues to protect our wild places today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasons of the high country, where winter brings crisp days hovering around 48°F and frosty nights dipping to 28°F—perfect for those who love the quiet solitude of off-season camping. But it's the glorious stretch from May through September when Cedar Creek truly shines. Summer transforms the forest into a sun-dappled paradise with warm days, cool mountain breezes, and those famously clear New Mexico skies that seem to stretch forever. With minimal rainfall during peak season, you can count on blue-sky adventures and comfortable camping conditions that make every outdoor plan possible.
ElevationPerched at a refreshing 7,000 feet above sea level, Cedar Creek offers a natural air-conditioned escape from the desert heat below. This mile-high vantage point delivers consistently cool temperatures that make summer camping a joy, while treating visitors to sweeping forest vistas that seem to roll on forever. The elevation creates its own microclimate where afternoon clouds provide welcome shade and evening temperatures drop just enough to make campfire gatherings irresistible.
Natural Features and SceneryFollow the gentle murmur of Cedar Creek as it winds through this 7,000-foot mountain sanctuary, where towering ponderosa pines and Douglas firs create a natural cathedral of green. The creek's babbling waters have carved a peaceful corridor through Lincoln National Forest, attracting wildlife to its banks and offering a soothing soundtrack for your stay. Scenic trails branch out like invitations to explore, leading through sun-dappled groves and opening onto unexpected vistas. Here, the forest provides both intimate spaces for quiet reflection and grand stages for group adventures, all wrapped in the aromatic embrace of pine needles and mountain air.
Geological RegionRising from the high desert of south-central New Mexico, Cedar Creek occupies a magical transition zone where the arid Southwest meets lush mountain forest. At 7,000 feet along the banks of Cedar Creek, this Lincoln National Forest gem showcases the region's remarkable geological diversity—from ancient limestone formations to volcanic remnants that tell the story of New Mexico's fiery past. This is Smokey Bear's homeland, where the convergence of elevation, water, and forest creates an ecosystem so precious it inspired a national movement to protect wild places from wildfire.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and picnic shelters are available, ensuring usability for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeGroup campsites can accommodate between 60 to 100 people.
Sites PrivacySome reviews mention the campground's private entrance and gate for privacy. However, other users report frequent intrusions from hikers and bikers.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup Site 3 is highly recommended for large groups seeking privacy and clean facilities. Group Site 1 has been noted for the intrusion of hikers and bikers due to trails leading up to the pavilion.
Best CampsitesGroup Site 3 receives high praise for its privacy, abundant shade, clean facilities, and ample parking. It is frequently mentioned as ideal for family reunions and large gatherings.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights during any given visit.
Groups
Group campsites accommodate between 60 and 100 people. Reviewers note features such as private entrances, ample parking, and spacious pavilions with working lights and electrical outlets.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three group sites and a picnic pavilion, with parking areas conveniently located near the sites. Trails connect the campground to surrounding areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15, 2025, through September 14, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, via the mobile app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information about walk-up or first-come-first-served availability is provided.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of reservation fees for individual cancellations. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's use fee for group sites if canceled less than 14 days before arrival.
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
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cedar Creek Campground offers various recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The T90 Fitness Trail, extending 1.3 miles, includes exercise stations for a unique hiking experience. Expert-level downhill mountain biking trails are also available, ending near the picnic area. Wildlife such as mule deer and elk are frequently seen in the area, contributing to its appeal.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity at Cedar Creek. Trails include the T90 Fitness Trail (1.3 miles long with exercise stations) and other nearby trails such as T120 A-D and T121 A&B. Some reviews describe the trails as robust and scenic, and many are suitable for bikers as well. Dogs must be kept on leash, and they are prohibited on the Fitness Trail.Biking
Biking is a featured activity at Cedar Creek. Trails include expert-only downhill trails near the water tower to the east of the campgrounds. Many users praise the variety of trails and the hours of exploration they offer.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as mule deer and elk are commonly observed. Reviewers appreciate the natural beauty and opportunities for exploration.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not mentioned as available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated rings. Visitors are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent tree-killing pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters with mule deer and elk. Hikers and bikers may intrude on group areas due to nearby trails. Visitors should check fire restriction information for updates.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services are located in Ruidoso, less than 1 mile away, including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - September 14, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash or recycling facilities are provided by either official sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Cedar Creek, offering natural water features within the Lincoln National Forest.
Common complaintsComplaints include disturbances caused by hikers and bikers entering group areas and occasional noise from adjacent sites exceeding quiet hours. Reported issues of a leaky pavilion roof during rain have been noted.
HostReviews mention friendly and helpful camp hosts who provide assistance during check-in.
Campground Map
901 MECHEM DR.
Driving directionsFrom Ruidoso on Mechem Drive, take Cedar Creek Road west .5 miles. Cedar Creek is the first recreational area located on the right (north).
Access to Cedar Creek is convenient, located only 0.5 miles west from Mechem Drive in Ruidoso. The area is easily accessible year-round with paved roads.Nearby places
Ruidoso (0.5 miles, 2 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The town of Ruidoso provides access to groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials, less than 1 mile away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
24 reviews
Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, with highlights on the spacious group sites, cleanliness, and convenient amenities. Complaints mainly focus on privacy issues due to intrusion by hikers and bikers.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive notes from users include clean vault toilets, spacious sites, well-maintained picnic shelters, private entrances, abundant shade, and convenient potable water pumps.
Based on 24 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include noise from adjacent sites, intrusions from hikers and bikers through the campground, and maintenance issues like leaky pavilion roofs.
Based on 24 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing extra wood and charcoal, using the private entrance gate for privacy, and selecting group sites for large gatherings. They also suggest calling ahead for fire restriction...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight the campground's shade and cool elevation but mention noise from busy trails. Winter reviews focus less on activities and more on the area's quiet and cleanliness.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Lovely camp ground, highly recommend for big groups.' - Les Dencklau
2. 'The pavilion was spacious and had working lights and electrical outlet. There is a fresh water pump by the pavilion.' -...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 003 (Loop GRP3) is highly praised for family reunions, privacy features, and ample amenities such as clean pit toilets and potable water pumps. Site 001 (Loop GRP1) receives mixed reviews due to...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and picnic shelters are appreciated by users needing accommodations for disabilities.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Dogs are prohibited from the T90 Fitness Trail.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025