Sleepy Grass Campground
4.5242 reviewsLocated off NM 130, 1.4 miles south of the village of Cloudcroft
Sleepy Grass Campground
$30.00 - $47.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single-family sites are $30 per night; double-family sites are $38 per night; triple-family sites are $47 per night. Extra vehicle fees are $10 per night per vehicle. Showers are available at Silver Overflow Campground for $7 per person per use. RV dump station at Silver Overflow Campground costs $15 per use.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Lincoln National Forest, Sleepy Grass Campground invites you to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature. This intimate mountain retreat features 15 thoughtfully spaced camping units, including 2 double sites perfect for group gatherings, 3 spacious triple units for larger parties, and 10 cozy single sites ideal for couples or solo adventurers. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV (30 feet or under), you'll find yourself enveloped by towering pines and the gentle sounds of the forest, far from the crowds and close to serenity.
The campground supports a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping for vehicles under 30 feet, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the campground's peaceful boundaries lies a treasure trove of discovery. The charming mountain village of Cloudcroft beckons with its Victorian-era charm, while the renowned Sunspot Observatory offers a window into the cosmos. Adventure seekers can follow the Bluff Springs trail as it winds through the forest to hidden waterfalls, or venture to the historic Trestle Recreation Area, where breathtaking overlooks reveal the story of the region's railroad heritage carved into the mountainside.
Weather and SeasonsAt Sleepy Grass, each season paints the landscape with its own palette. Summer arrives as a gentle friend, bringing pleasantly mild days in the 60s and 70s°F – a refreshing escape when valley temperatures soar. As evening falls, the mountain air turns crisp, perfect for campfire stories and stargazing. When winter descends, the campground transforms into a snow-blanketed wonderland, though deep drifts and freezing temperatures close access during the off-season, preserving this alpine sanctuary until spring's return.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,000 feet above sea level, Sleepy Grass Campground offers a natural air conditioning system that makes it a coveted summer escape. Here, while desert valleys below swelter, you'll enjoy nature's perfect climate – warm sunshine filtered through pine boughs by day and cool, star-filled nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sweet vanilla scent of Ponderosa pines drifting through your tent flaps, as morning light filters through a canopy of Douglas fir and dancing aspen leaves. Sleepy Grass rests in a pristine grassy valley, cradled by mountainsides dressed in evergreen splendor. This natural amphitheater creates an intimate camping experience where the forest feels close enough to touch, yet the meadow provides breathing room for relaxation and play.
Geological RegionSleepy Grass Campground occupies a special niche in Lincoln National Forest's diverse ecosystem, where a gentle grassy valley meets the dramatic slopes of the Sacramento Mountains. This unique setting showcases nature's artistry – majestic Douglas firs standing sentinel alongside vanilla-scented Ponderosa pines, while groves of quaking aspens add splashes of green in summer and gold in fall. It's a living gallery that demonstrates the remarkable ecological tapestry of New Mexico's high country.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySeveral campsites are wheelchair-accessible, and the campground features an interpretive trail with braille signs.
Sites SizeThe campground includes 10 single-family units, two double-family units, and three triple-family units.
Sites PrivacySites are described as well-spaced and offering good privacy, though some users found them clustered during busy periods.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesMany sites are level and equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and grills. Vault toilets are clean and distributed throughout the campground. Potable water is available at the entrance.
Best CampsitesSite 2, noted as the only back-in site for RVs, is popular for its accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- First-come, first-served basis
- no specific check-in time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Specific guest limits per site not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSleepy Grass Campground is organized into 15 units, including single, double, and triple sites. Sites are spacious and accommodate both tents and smaller RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from April 18 through September 3; closed for the remainder of the year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, with no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable; no reservations allowed.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a serene environment with opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and wildlife observation. The area is surrounded by natural beauty, including Ponderosa Pines and Aspen trees.
Hiking
Hikers can explore the La Pasada Encantada Trail, a 0.4-mile footpath with braille interpretive signs. The trail is easy and features scenic views and wildflowers.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe elk, deer, raccoons, and even wild horses. Birdsong and occasional owl calls contribute to the natural ambiance.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Sunspot Observatory, Bluff Springs, and the Trestle Recreation Area. Cloudcroft village offers craft shops and historical insights.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood is available for $9 per bundle.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; campers are advised to practice safe food storage techniques.
Active alertsOccasional advisories during rainy seasons, including temporary flooding near campsites.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.8 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
Nearest emergency services are available in Cloudcroft, including police stations and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash dumpsters are available throughout the campground. Trash disposal is free for campers, or $3 per bag for non-campers. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes, rivers, or streams are onsite, but Bluff Springs trail is nearby and leads to a waterfall.
Common complaintsSome campers note overcrowding during peak seasons and dissatisfaction with specific rangers' attitudes.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Campground Map
Located off NM 130, 1.4 miles south of the village of Cloudcroft
Driving directionsIn Cloudcroft, NM, take State Rt. 130 south 1.4 miles to Recreation Site sign. Turn left onto FR24B which is just across the road from Deerhead Campground. Continue 0.8 miles to campground.
Roads leading to the campground are paved and easily navigable. However, RVs longer than 30’ are prohibited.Nearby places
Cloudcroft (1.4 miles, approximately 5 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, fuel, and other essentials are accessible in Cloudcroft, a short 1.4-mile drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
42 reviews
Sleepy Grass Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the tranquility, wildlife, and cleanliness of the campground, with many campers praising the natural beauty and helpful hosts. Some issues were noted with overcrowding and occasional interactions with rangers.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the clean restrooms, friendly camp hosts, abundant wildlife, and serene environment. Level campsites with fire rings and potable water were frequently mentioned as positives.
Based on 42 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users reported overcrowding during peak times and negative interactions with certain rangers. Others mentioned that the parking aprons are dirt and can become messy in wet weather.
Based on 42 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own hand sanitizer and firewood, though firewood may be available on-site for $9. Visit during weekdays or the shoulder season to avoid crowds and ensure a more peaceful experience.
Based on 42 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally from mid-April to early September. Summer is the most popular time, offering mild weather and opportunities for stargazing. Spring and late summer provide fewer...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"A beautiful secluded canyon campground with both single and group sites." - David Chasteen. "Wildlife like elk, deer, and raccoons just wandering around, beautiful woods to hike and explore." -...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2 was specifically mentioned as the only back-in site for RVs. Multiple users praised the cleanliness and maintenance of the vault toilets.
Based on 42 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible sites and the braille trail were highlighted as excellent features for visitors with disabilities.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as dog-friendly, with some users noting encounters with wildlife that could excite dogs.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025