Oak Grove Campground

4.45

78 reviews

Oak Grove Campground, Smokey Bear Ranger District, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico

Quick Facts

8,400 ft

Price

$6 - $10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Seasonal operation f...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Lincoln National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,400 ft

Price

$6 - $10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Seasonal operation f...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Lincoln National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Oak Grove Campground

$6.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Sites cost $10 per night, with an additional fee of $5 for each vehicle (maximum of 2 vehicles per site). Other sources mention $6 per night for...

Standard Site Fee$6.00

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

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What Campers Say

4.45

Recommended

Based on 78 reviews

75 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleansites

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Oak Grove Campground are largely positive, emphasizing its serene and secluded nature, clean facilities, and scenic mountain views. However, some users express concerns about the overbearing behavior of the camp host, noise from other campers, and the lack of water and other utilities."

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Campground Map

Oak Grove Campground, Smokey Bear Ranger District, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico

Oak Grove Campground

Oak Grove Campground, Smokey Bear Ranger District, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico

Driving directionsIn Ruidoso, NM, at the intersection of US 70 and State Rt. 48, take Rt. 48 north 8.9 miles to Skyline and Oak Grove Picnic Ground sign. Turn left at sign and go 5.2 miles to Oak Grove campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.

Access roads are narrow, winding, and without guardrails, which can be challenging for some drivers. Official sources note: 'The campground is not recommended for trailers or RVs over 18 feet due to the grades and curves of the access roads.' User reviews corroborate this, describing the road as nerve-wracking and steep.

Nearby places

Ruidoso (approximately 9 miles, 25 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Ruidoso serves as the nearest hub for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, approximately 9 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Oak Grove Campground

At this elevation, Oak Grove experiences nature's full seasonal symphony. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland, with freezing temperatures that demand proper cold-weather gear and preparation. As summer arrives, the mountain air remains refreshingly cool, though afternoon sun can feel warm when it breaks through the forest canopy. Mountain weather brings its own personality—sudden afternoon thunderstorms may roll through, while mountain breezes whisper through the oaks and firs. Spring and fall offer spectacular transitions, with wildflowers or changing leaves adding splashes of color to your camping experience.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season (May 8–Sept 15); best weather and views but can be crowded/noisy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Gamble oaks turn golden in autumn; campground is only open for early fall (through Sept 15).

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 8; spring visits possible late season but limited by opening date.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; seasonal operation ends Sept 15.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 8 through September 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Seasonal operation from May 8 through September 15.
Current Alerts: Currently closed due to the South Fork Fire.

About Oak Grove Campground

Perched high on a mountain ridge at 8,400 feet, Oak Grove Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with 30 thoughtfully spaced campsites. Here, beneath a canopy of ancient Gamble oaks and towering Douglas firs, you'll find the perfect balance of mountain solitude and accessibility. The campground features essential amenities including vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, stone fireplaces for evening gatherings, and convenient trash facilities. Several walk-in tent sites provide an even more secluded experience for those seeking a deeper connection with the wilderness, while still keeping you within reach of breathtaking mountain vistas and abundant wildlife encounters.

Oak Grove Campground offers a mix of primitive and tent camping options. It is not suitable for large RVs and does not support group camping or luxury glamping options.

Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Oak Grove remains quietly tucked away in the forest's memory, this pristine mountain landscape speaks to centuries of natural heritage and the enduring appeal of high-country camping.

Weather and SeasonsAt this elevation, Oak Grove experiences nature's full seasonal symphony. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland, with freezing temperatures that demand proper cold-weather gear and preparation. As summer arrives, the mountain air remains refreshingly cool, though afternoon sun can feel warm when it breaks through the forest canopy. Mountain weather brings its own personality—sudden afternoon thunderstorms may roll through, while mountain breezes whisper through the oaks and firs. Spring and fall offer spectacular transitions, with wildflowers or changing leaves adding splashes of color to your camping experience.

ElevationAt 8,400 feet above sea level, Oak Grove Campground sits in rarified air where the sky feels closer and the stars shine brighter. This dramatic elevation rewards visitors with crisp mountain air, naturally cooler temperatures that provide relief from summer heat, and panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. The winding mountain roads that lead here add to the adventure, though they require careful navigation and a vehicle in good condition. The thin air at this altitude may be noticeable to some visitors, so taking it easy on your first day allows your body to adjust to the mountain environment.

Natural Features and SceneryFrom your campsite at Oak Grove, the majestic Sierra Blanca dominates the horizon, its peaks catching the first light of dawn and the last glow of sunset. The campground itself is a natural amphitheater, embraced by groves of stately Gamble oaks that turn golden in autumn and mighty Douglas firs that stand sentinel year-round. This diverse forest ecosystem attracts an impressive array of wildlife—morning visitors often spot majestic elk grazing in nearby meadows, while coyotes announce the evening with their haunting calls. Lucky campers might glimpse the wild horses that roam these mountains, and turkey families frequently parade through camp, adding entertainment to breakfast preparations. This living landscape within Lincoln National Forest creates endless opportunities for photography, wildlife watching, and simple moments of natural wonder.

Geological RegionLocated on top of a mountain ridge, the campground is nestled under mature Gamble oaks and Douglas fir in Lincoln National Forest, close to mountain vistas of Sierra Blanca.

Best Campsites

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Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit: 14 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Two vehicles maximum per site
no additional guest limits stated.

Groups

Group camping is not supported at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutMostly small, closely spaced sites, with some walk-in tent options. Layout features vault toilets and picnic tables at each site.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations allowed; first-come-first-served system.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served camping only, no reservation system in place.

Cancellation PolicyNo explicit cancellation policy mentioned; first-come-first-served availability only.

AccessibilityThere is limited information on accessibility features. Wheelchair-friendly toilets are not available, and the campground's location on a mountain ridge may present challenges for those with mobility issues.

Site SizeThe campground offers 27 campsites, some of which are walk-in tent sites. Specific details on site dimensions are not provided.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are described as secluded (e.g., Site 11), while others are close together, leading to reduced privacy during busy times.

Total Campsites30 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommended sites include Site 11 for privacy and flat tent space. Entrance spots may offer convenience and proximity to bathrooms.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Oak Grove Campground offers limited recreation opportunities on-site. Activities include picnicking and enjoying the natural surroundings, with wildlife viewing being a highlight. Nearby outdoor attractions, such as hiking in the Ruidoso area and exploring the Sierra Blanca mountains, are frequently mentioned by campers.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a key highlight, with wild horses, elk, coyotes, and hummingbirds frequently observed by campers.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear country: users are strongly advised to practice safe food storage. Narrow mountain roads may pose challenges for drivers. Wildlife such as coyotes and elk are commonly heard or seen.

Active AlertsCurrently closed due to the South Fork Fire.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFire bans may be enforced during dry periods. Fire pits are available at sites, but users report restrictions such as bans on open flames.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours begin at 10 PM; enforcement by camp hosts is noted in user reviews.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are located in Ruidoso, including hospitals, police stations, and support services.

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans are available at all campsites for waste disposal, but there is no mention of recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesNo water features within the campground. Nearby town of Ruidoso may offer water-based recreation.

Camp HostMixed reviews of camp hosts; some users found them helpful while others described them as overbearing or unfriendly.

Weather at Oak Grove Campground

Reviews

4.5

78 reviews

Recommended

Oak Grove Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Oak Grove Campground are largely positive, emphasizing its serene and secluded nature, clean facilities, and scenic mountain views. However, some users express concerns about the overbearing behavior of the camp host, noise from other campers, and the lack of water and other utilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 78 reviews

What Campers Love

Commonly praised aspects include the clean vault toilets, scenic views, wildlife sightings, and the secluded feel of certain campsites.

Based on 78 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints involve the camp host's behavior, issues with noisy or disruptive campers, and limited site privacy due to close proximity of campsites.

Based on 78 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water and firewood. Arrive early to secure a more private site, such as Site 11. Be cautious when driving the narrow, winding access road, especially with trailers.

Based on 78 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During peak season (May to September), the campground can become crowded, and noise levels may rise. Off-season visits offer a quieter experience but are limited by weather and the campground's...

Based on 78 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful serene place! Well kept pit toilets. Plenty of campsites on a Friday night for $6/night.' - Ben Thompson (2022) 2. 'Coyotes howled in the evening, and we woke to a bull elk bugling in...

Based on 78 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 11 is praised for its seclusion and quietness. The first site near the entrance is noted for its accessibility and proximity to the bathroom.

Based on 78 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the steep and winding access road may pose challenges.

Based on 78 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Complaints were noted about barking dogs, but there is no clear policy on pets mentioned in the reviews.

Based on 78 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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