How much does camping cost at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

Camping fees at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) range from $40-$125/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) first-come first-served or reservation?

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) before I book?

Yes! Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) is open May 15 to September 14. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

Fire policies at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias): Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) have?

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias). Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

Popular activities at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) include Hiking, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)

4.29

75 reviews

901 MECHEM DR.

Featured in:Best Campgrounds New Mexico

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,000 ft

Price

$40 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Lincoln National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,000 ft

Price

$40 - $125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Lincoln National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)

$40.00 - $125.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Cedar Creek Group Pinic Area: $40.00; GROUP STANDARD ELECTRIC-GROUP 1: $125.00; GROUP STANDARD ELECTRIC-GROUP 2: $125.00; GROUP STANDARD...

Group Site Fee$125.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

575-257-4095

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

901 MECHEM DR.

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)

901 MECHEM DR.

Nearby places

Ruidoso (0.5 miles, 2 minutes)

Weather at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)

Current alerts(6)

Dogs must be kept on a leash
Fireworks are prohibited
For more information on Lincoln National Forest, click here
No fuel wood cuttings; bring charcoal and/or wood from home, or collect down and dead wood

Best Time to Camp at Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)

Best season: fall. Early fall offers the best combination of cool, clear weather and active wildlife—elk and deer are frequently seen moving through meadows and creek-side trails, and mosquitoes are largely gone. Expect daytime highs in the 50s–70s°F and crisp nights dipping into the 30s–40s, making hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing especially pleasant; crowds are smaller than mid-summer. Note the campground’s limited window: aim for early September (site is open through Sept 14) to catch the first hints of as- Peak months: September, June, July, August Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Overview: 'Early fall is the sweet spot'—elk/deer active, mosquitoes mostly gone, crowds thin.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15, 2025, through September 14, 2025.

About Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)

Cedar Creek sits in the high-elevation alpine country of Lincoln National Forest near Ruidoso, offering tent, RV, and group camping with electric hookups and potable water. Operated by the Forest Service, this small campground provides spacious, shaded sites along a creek corridor where elk and deer are frequently spotted during fall. Campers hike, bike, and watch wildlife on surrounding trails, with designated quiet hours enforced to preserve the mountain atmosphere.

Cedar Creek features group camping options with accessible picnic shelters and basic amenities. Individual tent camping and RV camping are not explicitly mentioned.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Early fall offers the best combination of cool, clear weather and active wildlife—elk and deer are frequently seen moving through meadows and creek-side trails, and mosquitoes are largely gone. Expect daytime highs in the 50s–70s°F and crisp nights dipping into the 30s–40s, making hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing especially pleasant; crowds are smaller than mid-summer. Note the campground’s limited window: aim for early September (site is open through Sept 14) to catch the first hints of as- Peak months: September, June, July, August Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation7000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryCedar Creek flows through the campground, flanked by ponderosa pines and Douglas firs that provide thick shade across all sites. At 7,000 feet, the campground occupies a transition zone where high desert meets mountain forest. The creek attracts elk and deer, especially in early fall when they move through meadows and along the water. Trails branch out from camp into the surrounding Lincoln National Forest. Ancient limestone formations and volcanic remnants mark the geology here, visible in rock outcroppings along the trails.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges or accommodations within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Visitors may stay up to 14 nights during any given visit.

Groups

Group campsites accommodate between 60 and 100 people. Reviewers note features such as private entrances, ample parking, and spacious pavilions with working lights and electrical outlets.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, via the mobile app, or through the contact center.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and picnic shelters are available, ensuring usability for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeGroup campsites can accommodate between 60 to 100 people.

PrivacySome reviews mention the campground's private entrance and gate for privacy. However, other users report frequent intrusions from hikers and bikers.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesGroup Site 3 is highly recommended for large groups seeking privacy and clean facilities. Group Site 1 has been noted for the intrusion of hikers and bikers due to trails leading up to the pavilion.

Best CampsitesGroup Site 3 gets the most positive mentions. Reviewers highlight its privacy, shade coverage, clean vault toilets, and ample parking. It's a popular choice for family reunions and large gatherings.

Need help booking Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Cedar Creek Campground, also known as the Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground, offers a variety of amenities designed for group camping and day use activities. The campground has accessible vault toilets, drinking water, campfire rings, grills, picnic shelters, and non-sheltered picnic tables open to the public. The group picnic shelter accommodates up to 40 people, while group campgrounds can host between 60 and 100 individuals. Reviews highlight the presence of clean pit toilets, ample shade, and parking spaces (though some are not level). Many users complement the picnic shelters and their large charcoal grills, and the fresh water pump near the pavilion is praised for its convenience.

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Cedar Creek Campground offers various recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The T90 Fitness Trail, extending 1.3 miles, includes exercise stations for a unique hiking experience. Expert-level downhill mountain biking trails are also available, ending near the picnic area. Wildlife such as mule deer and elk are frequently seen in the area, contributing to its appeal.

Hiking

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; accessible vault toilets are provided.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

75 reviews

Satisfactory

Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, with highlights on the spacious group sites, cleanliness, and convenient amenities. Complaints mainly focus on privacy issues due to intrusion by hikers and bikers.

Review Summaries

Based on 75 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 75 reviews.

Site 003 (Loop GRP3)Loved
Site 003 (Loop GRP3) is highly praised for family reunions, privacy features, and ample amenities such as clean pit toilets and potable water pumps.
Site 001 (Loop GRP1)Mentioned
Site 001 (Loop GRP1) receives mixed reviews due to privacy concerns and noise from other campers.

What Campers Love

Positive notes from users include clean vault toilets, spacious sites, well-maintained picnic shelters, private entrances, abundant shade, and convenient potable water pumps.

Based on 75 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include noise from adjacent sites, intrusions from hikers and bikers through the campground, and maintenance issues like leaky pavilion roofs.

Based on 75 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing extra wood and charcoal, using the private entrance gate for privacy, and selecting group sites for large gatherings. They also suggest calling ahead for fire restriction...

Based on 75 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often highlight the campground's shade and cool elevation but mention noise from busy trails. Winter reviews focus less on activities and more on the area's quiet and cleanliness.

Based on 75 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Lovely camp ground, highly recommend for big groups.' - Les Dencklau 2. 'The pavilion was spacious and had working lights and electrical outlet. There is a fresh water pump by the pavilion.' -...

Based on 75 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible vault toilets and picnic shelters are appreciated by users needing accommodations for disabilities.

Based on 75 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Dogs are prohibited from the T90 Fitness Trail.

Based on 75 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want high-elevation mountain camping with electric hookups and excellent fall wildlife viewing near Ruidoso.

Skip if

You need full hookups or prefer campgrounds with flush restrooms and shower facilities.

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Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias)

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Cedar Creek (Sam Tobias) sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>The Group Campground has capacity for up to 100 people for camping or picnicking. All units are wheelchair accessible and have pavilions, picnic tables, campfire pits, grills, water, vault toilets. 3 sites for 60/80/100 people in meadow setting provide popular group activity destination and trails/forest roads for hiking access into adjoining forest Large group facilities only. The campground previous known as Cedar Creek Campground and was renamed in honor of local firefighter, Sam Tobias, who lost his life in the line of duty the summer of 2000. </p>

Open Season: September 15