Pines Campground
4.5635 reviewsPines Campground, Cloudcroft, NM, Lincoln National Forest, Sacramento Ranger District
Pines Campground
$32.00 - $57.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$57.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $32 for single sites to $57 for quadruple large family sites. Additional fees include $10 per extra vehicle, $7 per shower at Silver Overflow CG, $15 for RV dumping at Silver Overflow CG, and $0.30 per gallon of water after the first free 5 gallons.
About this campground
Nestled high in the Lincoln National Forest, Pines Campground invites you to discover its two distinct loops—Butterfly and Chipmunk—offering 23 thoughtfully positioned sites beneath a canopy of towering Douglas and white fir trees. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including fire rings, spacious parking spurs, picnic tables, and access to vault toilets and fresh potable water. Whether you're arriving with a tent or an RV up to 40 feet, you'll find the perfect basecamp for your mountain adventure. Just steps away, the scenic Osha Trail beckons, promising breathtaking vistas of the historic Mexican Canyon Trestle and the sprawling Tularosa Basin below.
Pines Campground supports a range of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. Groups can book the spacious quad site.
Historical SignificanceThis enchanted forest serves as the protected sanctuary for the rare Checkerspot Butterfly, a delicate creature that dances among the native New Mexico Penstemon and vibrant Orange Sneezeweed. The campground connects modern visitors to layers of history through the nearby Osha Trail, which leads to the remarkable Mexican Canyon Trestle—a testament to early 20th-century engineering that once carried timber trains across the dramatic canyon landscape.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Pines Campground basks in the perfect mountain climate—crisp, dry days that offer a refreshing escape from lowland heat. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a golden wonderland before winter blankets the landscape in snow. Cold-weather adventurers should come prepared for freezing temperatures, occasional snowfall, and mountain winds that whisper through the firs, creating a true alpine experience.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 8,700 feet above sea level, Pines Campground offers a genuine high-country experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and mountain vistas stretch endlessly before you. This elevated paradise provides natural air conditioning during summer months and spectacular sunrise views that paint the surrounding peaks in alpenglow.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where majestic Douglas and white fir forests create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns. A carefully preserved meadow, protected by rustic fencing, serves as a butterfly sanctuary where rare species flutter among wildflowers. From various vantage points throughout the campground, sweeping panoramas reveal the engineering marvel of Mexican Canyon Trestle suspended above the canyon, while the vast Tularosa Basin stretches toward the horizon like an ancient sea of sage and sand.
Geological RegionThe Lincoln National Forest creates a dramatic sky island ecosystem where Pines Campground sits, offering a cool mountain refuge rising from the surrounding desert landscape. This unique geological setting, dominated by ancient Douglas and white fir forests, provides visitors with a rare opportunity to experience multiple ecosystems in one location. The dramatic views encompassing both the Mexican Canyon Trestle and the expansive Tularosa Basin below showcase millions of years of geological history, from volcanic peaks to ancient lake beds, all visible from your campsite door.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available, and many campsites are on level ground, though specific ADA-compliance details are not mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate tents and RVs up to 35 feet in length. The quad site (site 7) is particularly spacious and can fit up to four tents.
Sites PrivacyTowering Ponderosa pines provide some shade, but the lack of midstory results in fair to good privacy. Most sites are spaced apart to enhance seclusion.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and scenic views, select sites in the Butterfly Loop overlooking the fenced meadow.
Best CampsitesThe Butterfly Loop offers tent pads with views of a rare butterfly habitat.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
First-come, first-serve.
Check-out
Vacate by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guest limits vary by site type, up to four families for quadruple sites.
Groups
The quad site (site 7) can accommodate up to 4 families and features multiple tables and a fire pit. Additional vehicles cost $10 each.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutButterfly Loop includes tent pads and scenic views; Chipmunk Loop is better suited for RVs and trailers. Sites are well spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 17 through September 3.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms available as sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only and follow a first-come, first-serve policy.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations available; entirely first-come, first-serve basis.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers hiking, picnicking, and opportunities to explore nearby attractions. The Osha Trail provides stunning views of the Mexican Canyon Trestle and Tularosa Basin, making it a favorite among visitors.
Hiking
The campground connects to several trails, including the Osha Trail (T10), a 2.2-mile loop featuring views of the Mexican Canyon Trestle and Tularosa Basin. Suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.Biking
The Osha Trail supports mountain biking and offers a moderate challenge for riders.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer, horses, crows, squirrels, and coyotes. Visitors have occasionally sighted mountain lions.Winter Activities
Not applicable as the campground is open seasonally between mid-May and early September.Water Sports
No water sports available due to lack of water bodies.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires allowed in designated fire rings only. Firewood available for $9 per bundle.
- Quiet hours strictly enforced during nighttime.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; campers must practice safe food storage. Additional wildlife reported includes mountain lions, coyotes, deer, and elk.
Active alertsNo active advisories reported.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.7 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
Closest emergency services are located in Cloudcroft, including a hospital and local police station.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season aligns with the open season, from May 17 to September 3.
Trash and recyclingCentral garbage depository available. Trash pickup is free for campers; additional bags cost $3 per day. Recycling details not provided.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes or rivers nearby; potable water available on-site.
Common complaintsMixed reviews on campground hosts, issues with noise enforcement, and hiking trail confusion leading to privacy concerns.
HostHosts have received mixed reviews. Positive reviews mention 'Don' as attentive and helpful. Issues reported with another host include aggressive behavior.
Campground Map
Pines Campground, Cloudcroft, NM, Lincoln National Forest, Sacramento Ranger District
Driving directionsTravel east on US82 from Cloudcroft, turn left onto NM244. Less than 1 mile later on your left you will find the entrance to Pines Campground (across the street from the Fir Campgrounds).
Accessible from paved roads, specifically US82 and NM244. No seasonal closures are noted. Vehicle access is limited to RVs of 35-40 feet maximum length due to turning radius and site parking space constraints.Nearby places
Cloudcroft (1 mile, 5 minutes), Sunspot Observatory (16 miles, 25 minutes), Bluff Springs (8 miles, 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Cloudcroft, which is approximately 1 mile away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
35 reviews
Pines Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, proximity to trails, and serene atmosphere. Many campers praise the camp host's dedication to maintenance and visitor satisfaction.
Review Summaries
Based on 35 reviews
What Campers Love
- Clean restrooms and campsites
- Quiet and well-maintained
- Proximity to Cloudcroft and Osha Trail
- Host Don is frequently noted as helpful and attentive
- Opportunities for wildlife viewing and...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of on-site showers
- No water spigots directly at individual campsites
- Some complaints about campground host behavior in isolated instances
- Noise issues due to groups not being addressed...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during weekends.
- Bring your own firewood to avoid paying $9 per bundle.
- Visit mid-week to avoid crowds, as weekends fill up quickly.
- Due to limited...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize the cooler temperatures and lush greenery compared to the surrounding desert. August sees higher traffic from out-of-state visitors, particularly from Texas.
Based on 35 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "The summer temps are perfect, the views are spectacular, the people are friendly." - Julian Franklin
- "Amazing place to camp! The person in charge of the campground was super nice and sweet." -...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7 (quad site): Noted for its spaciousness and amenities like multiple tables and proximity to trails. However, some visitors reported hikers mistakenly entering the site.
Based on 35 reviewsAccessibility Features
Mixed feedback. While the vault toilets are wheelchair-accessible, further specifics on ADA-compliant features are not available.
Based on 35 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or policies regarding pets were provided.
Based on 35 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025