Mccrystal Campground
02 reviewsMccrystal Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on reservation type and methods, ranging from $3 in-person to $8 online. If you cancel late, you may incur additional fees or lose the first night’s fees.
About this campground
Nestled deep in the heart of Valle Vidal's pristine wilderness, McCrystal Campground offers 55 spacious sites where the untamed spirit of New Mexico's high country comes alive. This coveted basecamp attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round, serving as the perfect launching point for world-class elk and bear hunting expeditions, backcountry hiking adventures, and fly fishing in crystal-clear mountain streams. Here, where the morning mist dances across alpine meadows and bugling elk echo through the valleys, you'll discover why seasoned outdoorsmen return to McCrystal season after season.
McCrystal Campground offers 55 campsites suitable for tent and RV camping. The remote location and primitive setup give it a dispersed camping vibe. There is no reservation system, and spots are generally available even during busy weekends.
Historical SignificanceThe meadows surrounding McCrystal Campground whisper stories of the past, where sharp-eyed visitors occasionally discover weathered artifacts left behind by the hardy homesteaders who once called this remote valley home. These tangible connections to frontier life add an enriching layer to your camping experience, reminding us that this land has long provided sanctuary and sustenance to those brave enough to embrace its rugged beauty.
Weather and SeasonsMcCrystal Campground basks in remarkably clear mountain weather, with brilliant blue skies gracing visitors over 80% of the time during peak season. The high-altitude climate creates crisp, invigorating conditions perfect for outdoor adventures, with daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable 40°F and nighttime lows dipping to a refreshing 16°F. Gentle mountain breezes averaging 7 mph keep the air fresh and clean, while occasional dustings of snow (less than an inch) add a magical touch to the landscape without hindering access or activities.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryMcCrystal Campground sits like a jewel in Valle Vidal's crown, surrounded by sweeping mountain meadows that burst with wildflowers in summer and turn golden in autumn's embrace. This protected wilderness sanctuary serves as a vital corridor for majestic elk herds and elusive black bears, offering wildlife enthusiasts unparalleled opportunities for observation and photography. The dramatic landscape unfolds in every direction, from dense conifer forests to open grasslands where nature's grand theater plays out daily.
Geological RegionSet within the legendary Valle Vidal—New Mexico's premier elk and bear habitat—McCrystal Campground occupies one of the Southwest's most ecologically significant regions. This carefully managed wilderness area represents the pinnacle of high-country ecosystems, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape that supports one of North America's most robust elk populations and provides critical habitat for black bears, mountain lions, and countless other species.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates 55 sites, but specific size details are missing.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest a high level of privacy due to the campground's remote location and the spacing of sites.
Total Campsites55 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance for McCrystal Campground; it's first-come-first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityEven on busy weekends this campground will usually have an open spot, as stated by reviews.
Cancellation PolicyIf canceled after 12:00 AM local time on the day before the reservation start date, a cancellation fee of $10 is applied along with the forfeiture of the first night's fees. Late cancellations for one-night reservations will forfeit the entire amount paid.
Activities you can enjoy
McCrystal Campground serves as a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting as its main attractions. The surrounding Valle Vidal area offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a great spot for nature photography and exploration.
Hiking
The campground is located in an area suitable for hiking, surrounded by Valle Vidal's scenic trails, but specific trail details such as length or difficulty are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is one of the key activities promoted for this site, though no specific details about fish species or best fishing spots are mentioned.Wildlife viewing
The campground is in elk and bear country, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Reviewers have noted sightings of hummingbirds and White-lined Sphinx moths, adding to the wildlife diversity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsRoad hazards include sharp rocks, as mentioned in user reviews. Wildlife such as bears and elk are present in the area.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
53
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 94%
High humidity, may feel muggy
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash or recycling facilities is available, but reviewers note the campground's remote and primitive nature, implying limited services.
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaintsComplaints include flies due to horse use. "Only downside is this is also used for horses and can have a lot of flies." - Robert
HostUser reviews mention friendly campground hosts who engage with campers and offer a welcoming atmosphere. "We had a couple of very friendly campground hosts." - Paul Corley
Campground Map
Driving directions36 miles northwest of Cimarron via US 64 &FR 1950
Graveled roads are not maintained during the rainy season and may only be passable with a four-wheel drive vehicle.Nearby places
Cimarron: 36 miles northwest
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Mccrystal Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's serene and remote nature, making it perfect for solitude and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Many users praise the lack of crowding and the picturesque Valle Vidal setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's quiet and secluded environment, friendly campground hosts, and beautiful natural surroundings. The area is noted for its wildlife, including elk, bears,...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers mention the challenging access road with sharp rocks and washboard surfaces. Others point out the presence of flies due to horse activity.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring a sturdy vehicle for the rough access road. 2. Be prepared for the remote setting with essential supplies, as stores and towns are hours away. 3. Be ready for potential wildlife encounters,...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground remains relatively uncrowded even during peak seasons. Weather conditions may vary, with potential challenges during the rainy season due to unmaintained roads.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We really enjoyed our visit to Valle Vidal! We stayed in the Crystal on the bluff overlooking the beautiful meadow!" - Paul Corley. "If you want solitude, this is the spot. Very remote and quiet." -...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground is generally praised for its spacious sites and lack of crowding even on busy weekends. Specific site numbers or standout sites are not detailed.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025