Black Bear Group Area
4.846 reviewsPO BOX 836, CLOUDCROFT, NM, 88317, USA
Quick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
$123 - $154/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open from May 16 to ...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
$123 - $154/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open from May 16 to ...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Black Bear Group Area
$123.00 - $154.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Standard Area Non-Electric: 1 to 30 people $123 per night, 31 to 70 people $154 per night. Fees may vary slightly by peak season and...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$154.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider575-682-1518
What Campers Say
4.84
Top-Rated
Based on 6 reviews
18 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanrestroomsspacious
Some mention
cell service
"Reviews for Black Bear Group Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing cleanliness, spaciousness, and the natural beauty of the surroundings. Many users return to the site annually and highlight the friendly camp host and well-maintained facilities. Common sentiments include the peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife."
Fees & Passes at Black Bear Group Area
$123 - $154/night
Campsite fees
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 nights during any one visit.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled anytime before arrival; a $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forf...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Vista Recreation website.
Best Time to Camp at Black Bear Group Area
The mountain climate here dances between seasons with delightful unpredictability. Spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and crisp mornings, while summer days warm to perfection for outdoor adventures—though you'll still want that cozy fleece for evening campfire sessions. As autumn arrives, the aspens burst into golden flames against the evergreen canvas, and winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, transforming the campground into a quiet wonderland. Even in July, the high elevation keeps nights refreshingly cool, perfect for deep sleep under star-studded skies.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 16 to September 7.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 16 to September 7 for reservations. Closed outside of these dates.
- Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may be implemented during periods of high heat or dryness.
About Black Bear Group Area
Perched high in the Lincoln National Forest at 9,000 feet, Black Bear Group Area beckons families and friends seeking an unforgettable mountain retreat. This spacious group campground transforms ordinary gatherings into extraordinary memories, whether you're celebrating a family reunion beneath towering pines or sharing stories around the campfire with old friends. The whisper of wind through aspen groves sets the soundtrack for your stay, while the legendary homeland of Smokey Bear adds a touch of American folklore to your adventure. Days here unfold with endless possibilities—from spotting elk grazing in nearby meadows to exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through this high-country paradise.
Black Bear Group Campground is a group-oriented site designed for gatherings of up to 70 people. It caters specifically to large groups and does not have options for individual or family camping.
Historical SignificanceThis hallowed ground holds a special place in American conservation history as the birthplace of a beloved icon. Just a stone's throw from where a frightened bear cub was rescued from a devastating wildfire in 1950, your campsite connects you to the origin story of Smokey Bear—the living symbol who taught generations about forest fire prevention. Standing among these very trees, you're camping in the cradle of one of America's most successful public service campaigns, where a small miracle gave birth to a conservation legend.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate here dances between seasons with delightful unpredictability. Spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and crisp mornings, while summer days warm to perfection for outdoor adventures—though you'll still want that cozy fleece for evening campfire sessions. As autumn arrives, the aspens burst into golden flames against the evergreen canvas, and winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, transforming the campground into a quiet wonderland. Even in July, the high elevation keeps nights refreshingly cool, perfect for deep sleep under star-studded skies.
ElevationAt 9,000 feet above sea level, Black Bear Group Area offers a true sky-island experience in the heart of the Sacramento Mountains. This lofty perch places you among the clouds, where the air runs thin and pure, and the views stretch endlessly across the Southwest. The elevation creates its own microclimate, offering cool refuge from desert heat below while providing that satisfying shortness of breath that reminds you just how high you've climbed into New Mexico's mountain kingdom.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine standing at the edge of two worlds—behind you, a cathedral of ponderosa pines and quaking aspens creates a verdant mountain sanctuary, while before you, the vast Tularosa Basin stretches like an ancient sea of sand and sage. This dramatic convergence of ecosystems makes Black Bear Group Area a photographer's dream and a naturalist's playground. Morning light filters through the forest canopy, painting dappled shadows on the forest floor, while sunset transforms the desert valley below into a canvas of purples and golds. It's a landscape that shifts with every hour, offering new perspectives on the raw beauty of the American Southwest.
Geological RegionThe Sacramento Mountains rise like a forested island from the surrounding desert, and Black Bear Group Area claims one of its most spectacular viewpoints. From your campsite among the pines, you'll gaze across the immense Tularosa Basin—a 6,500 square mile testament to geological forces that shaped the Southwest. This ancient valley, cradled between the Sacramento and San Andres mountain ranges, tells a story written in stone and sand over millions of years. The dramatic elevation change from basin floor to mountain peak creates diverse ecosystems that collide at your doorstep, making this one of New Mexico's most geologically fascinating camping destinations.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground has a group site accommodating up to 70 people, with ample space for tents and activities. Users highlight the spaciousness of the area, with one noting, "Plenty of space to house tents and enjoy the outdoors."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at the Black Bear Group Campground is limited due to its group nature. While the site is secluded, it is designed for collective gatherings rather than individual privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend bringing warm clothing for cool nights and arranging alternative communication methods due to limited cell service.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during any one visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups of up to 70 people allowed per reservation.
Groups
The group site accommodates 1 to 70 people, with rates varying between $123/night and $154/night depending on the group size. Ample space allows for multiple tents and group activities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group site accommodating up to 70 people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 7 for reservations. Closed outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required; walk-up availability is not mentioned explicitly.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival; a $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival. Late changes may incur penalties.
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
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Black Bear Group Campground offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, with a focus on group-friendly options. Popular activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The campground is in close proximity to the Osha Trail, a 2.5-mile loop known for its scenic views. Evening skies are often clear, making it a prime spot for astronomy enthusiasts. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with opportunities to see elk, deer, birds, and the iconic black bears that inspired Smokey Bear.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, including access to a network of trails around the campground. The Osha Trail, a 2.5-mile loop, is particularly noted for its scenic appeal.Biking
Mountain biking is a notable activity, with trails such as the Rim Trail located nearby. These trails offer varied levels of difficulty and scenic views.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a major attraction, with the campground home to elk, deer, birds, and black bears. The area's connection to the famous Smokey Bear enhances its appeal.Winter Activities
No mention of winter-specific activities is provided.Water Sports
The campground does not offer non-motorized water sports as there are no water bodies on the premises.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless specific fire restrictions are imposed due to weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with black bears and other wildlife. Fire restrictions may apply due to dry conditions.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be implemented during periods of high heat or dryness.
Weather at Black Bear Group Area
42
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Cloudcroft, including medical facilities and police. The nearest hospital would be in Alamogordo, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 7.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is available. Campers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresNo water is available on-site, but water access is possible at the nearby Deerhead Campground during Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Common complaintsSome visitors mention issues with cell service across carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T.
HostA friendly and helpful camp host is frequently mentioned in reviews, noted for maintaining cleanliness and providing assistance.
Campground Map
PO BOX 836, CLOUDCROFT, NM, 88317, USA
Driving directionsIn southeast New Mexico, approximately 20 miles east of Alamagordo. From Alamagordo take US 82 east. Go 16 miles. Just before Cloudcroft, turn right (south) on NM 130. Go 1.4 miles. Turn left (east) on Forest Road 24B. Go .5 miles. Black Bear Group area is on right (south) side of road across from Aspen Group Area.
The roads to the campground are paved, but the final stretch involves a forest road that may require caution. Seasonal access is likely unaffected, but travelers should ensure their vehicles can handle minor gravel roads.Nearby places
Alamogordo (20 miles), Cloudcroft (1 mile)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel can be accessed in Cloudcroft, about 1 mile away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.8
6 reviews
Black Bear Group Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Black Bear Group Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing cleanliness, spaciousness, and the natural beauty of the surroundings. Many users return to the site annually and highlight the friendly camp host and well-maintained facilities. Common sentiments include the peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the cleanliness of the campground, the spacious areas for tents and gatherings, and the helpfulness of the camp host. Many note the beauty of the area, with one stating, "Beautiful...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of water on-site is the most frequently mentioned downside, requiring visitors to plan ahead or rely on nearby campgrounds for water access. Another minor concern is the inconsistent cell...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water due to the lack of on-site access and preparing for limited cell phone service. Firewood is plentiful on-site, so there’s no need to bring extra. Visitors...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is most enjoyable during late spring and summer, coinciding with its peak season availability. Cooler nighttime temperatures are frequently highlighted as a...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Come here on a yearly basis and it’s always a great time. Very clean and fun. Lots of space for a huge group camp out." - Madison Shores
2. "We have been camping at Black Bear for the past few...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews consistently praise the group nature of the campground. For example, Ivan B noted that the tent areas are "real nice secluded," while others mentioned the ample open space for...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews discuss pet policies or experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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