Slide Group Area
4.766 reviewsPO BOX 836, CLOUDCROFT, NM, 88317, USA
Slide Group Area
$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 rates depend on the number of visitors: $123/night for 1 to 40 people, $154/night for 41 to 90 people. These fees apply during the peak season from May 16 to September 27.
About this campground
Perched high in the Sacramento Mountains, just a scenic two-mile drive from the charming village of Cloudcroft, Slide Group Area offers an exceptional mountain retreat for large gatherings. This expansive campground welcomes up to 90 guests into a world of towering pines, wildflower meadows, and endless mountain vistas. As part of the legendary Lincoln National Forest—the very wilderness that gave us Smokey Bear—this special place connects visitors to both natural beauty and conservation history. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout expedition, or community gathering, you'll find yourself immersed in the peaceful rhythms of mountain life.
Slide Group Area is tailored for group camping with no individual campsites.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping in storied ground—this is Smokey Bear country, where America's most beloved forest guardian was rescued from a wildfire decades ago. The Lincoln National Forest carries this legacy of conservation forward, inviting visitors to experience the wilderness that inspired a national movement. Just beyond the forest boundaries, two remarkable destinations await: the otherworldly gypsum dunes of White Sands National Monument and the fascinating Sunspot Solar Observatory, where scientists unlock the mysteries of our nearest star.
Weather and SeasonsAt 9,000 feet, the mountain air stays refreshingly crisp even during peak season, with daytime temperatures hovering around a comfortable 44°F before dipping to a cozy 26°F under star-filled nights. The dry mountain climate means you'll enjoy mostly clear skies, though occasional snow flurries can dust the landscape with magical winter beauty. Pack layers to stay comfortable as you transition from sunny afternoons to cool evenings around the campfire.
ElevationAt 9,000 feet above sea level, you'll find yourself in a true sky island ecosystem where the air is pure and the views stretch for miles. This remarkable elevation creates a natural refuge from desert heat below, offering crystal-clear mountain air and temperatures that can be 20-30 degrees cooler than the surrounding lowlands. Here, you'll breathe easier, sleep deeper, and wake to panoramic vistas that remind you just how high you've climbed.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your campsite on the dramatic rim of the Sacramento Mountains, the world unfolds in layers of natural splendor. Gaze across the vast Tularosa Basin stretching endlessly below while surrounded by a living cathedral of mixed evergreens and quaking aspens that shimmer gold in autumn. This 9,000-foot mountain sanctuary creates its own weather, its own seasons, and its own magical moments—from morning mists threading through the pines to afternoon thunderheads building over distant peaks.
Geological RegionThe Sacramento Mountains rise like a forested island from the Chihuahuan Desert, and at 9,000 feet, Slide Group Area sits atop this geological marvel. Here, ancient limestone cliffs tell stories of prehistoric seas while volcanic intrusions hint at the Earth's fiery past. The campground's position offers front-row seats to one of New Mexico's most dramatic landscapes—where pine and aspen forests crown weathered peaks, and the sprawling Tularosa Basin below showcases the raw power of geological time. This unique perch provides not just camping, but a window into millions of years of Earth's history.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSupports group camping with space for up to 90 individuals.
Sites Privacy"Having a full site with no other campers within a couple of miles was priceless," noted one reviewer.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for large gatherings like reunions or scouting events. Privacy is a major advantage as there are no other campers nearby.
Best CampsitesThe Slide Group Area contains one large group site accommodating up to 90 people.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check in after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Agroup site allows up to 90 guests.
Groups
The campground supports groups of up to 90 people. Rates vary based on group size: $123 per night for groups of 1 to 40 people and $154 per night for groups of 41 to 90 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single group camping area with an adjacent meadow for recreational activities.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season runs May 16 to September 27 annually. Outside these dates, reservations are not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov. Contact center and app options are also available for booking.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up sites; reservations are recommended and possibly required for group camping.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to the arrival date, but late cancellations within 14 days of arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee.
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.
Activities you can enjoy
The Slide Group Area provides a variety of recreational activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. "Slide Group Area backs into the Rim Trail, offering epic views, rocky hills, and switchbacks." Visitors can participate in hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and sports within the connected meadow.
Hiking
The Rim Trail offers northward sections suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Southward sections are accessible for motorcycles.Biking
Mountain biking is available on the northern part of the Rim Trail. Terrain includes rocky hills and switchbacks.Wildlife viewing
The area surrounding the campground is home to deer, elk, and various bird species.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed due to hot, dry weather conditions. Campfires and charcoal fires are prohibited during these times.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsFire restrictions are a common safety measure due to dry conditions. Wildlife like deer and elk may be present.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories were noted.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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 in Cloudcroft, NM, 2 miles away, including a small clinic and local police services. For serious emergencies, facilities in Alamogordo (20 miles away) are accessible.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 27
Proximity to water featuresNot described as being close to any water bodies.
Common complaintsSome user reviews noted initial issues with site preparation: 'The campground had not been cleaned, the bathrooms had not been unlocked, and the water tank wasn't there.' However, these were resolved rapidly by staff.
HostThe campground hosts, Pat and Vernon, are praised for their efforts in maintaining cleanliness and safety: 'Campground hosts Pat & Vernon make this a very special place.'
Campground Map
PO BOX 836, CLOUDCROFT, NM, 88317, USA
Driving directionsLocated in southeast New Mexico, Slide Group Area is approximately 20 miles east of Alamogordo. From Alamogordo, take Highway 82 east 16 miles. Just before Cloudcroft, turn right (south) on Highway 130, go approximately 2 miles. Turn right (west) on NM 6563, the Sunspot Highway Go approximately 1/4 miles. Slide Group Area is on the right.
Road access is convenient to the campground and features a paved route. Located on NM 6563, the Sunspot Highway is easily navigable. However, fire restrictions or other temporary conditions might affect the accessibility.Nearby places
Alamogordo: 20 miles (approximately 32 minutes) Cloudcroft: 2 miles (approximately 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Cloudcroft, NM, which is 2 miles away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.8
6 reviews
Slide Group Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Slide Group Area are highly positive overall, with an average sentiment rating of 4.71. Visitors praise the spaciousness, secluded nature, and variety of activities, despite some operational and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great place for the cub scouts!" and "Having a full site with no other campers within a couple of miles was priceless."
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted maintenance challenges, such as "the campground had not been cleaned, the bathrooms had not been unlocked and the water tank wasn't there" upon arrival.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive prepared as amenities like restrooms may not always be operational upon arrival. The open meadow is ideal for group sports.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Highly positive experiences noted during peak season. No significant data available for off-season use.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Campground hosts Pat & Vernon make this a very special place. They always keep the area clean and safe." - CHRIS B, "The weekend was extra special with our family camping with us. Having a full site...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001, Loop SLID, is frequently mentioned. "We had reserved this site for a full family reunion next year."
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025