How much does camping cost at Oak Grove Campground?

Camping fees at Oak Grove Campground range from $6-$10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Oak Grove Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Oak Grove Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. First-come-first-served camping only, no reservation system in place.

Can I see photos of campsites at Oak Grove Campground before I book?

Yes! Oak Grove Campground has 10 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 Oak Grove Campground?

Oak Grove Campground is open May 8 through September 15.. 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 Oak Grove Campground?

Oak Grove Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Oak Grove Campground have?

Oak Grove Campground has 30 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Oak Grove Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Oak Grove Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Oak Grove Campground?

Oak Grove Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Oak Grove Campground?

Popular activities at Oak Grove Campground include Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Oak Grove Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Oak Grove Campground?

Fire policies at Oak Grove Campground: Fire bans may be enforced during dry periods. Fire pits are available at sites, but users report restrictions such as bans on open flames.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.33

78 reviews

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

Featured in:Tent Camping 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

Check Availability 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

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Oak Grove Campground

$6.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$10 per site, plus $5 for each additional vehicle, 2 vehicles maximum.

Standard Site Fee$6.00

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USFS

Provider

I manage this campground

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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

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.

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.

Weather at Oak Grove Campground

Current alert: Currently closed due to the South Fork Fire.

Best Time to Camp at Oak Grove Campground

Summer brings daytime highs around 60–75°F with nights dropping into the 30s–40s. Afternoon monsoon storms roll through briefly but regularly in July and August. Wildflowers peak in early summer. Winter closes most access with snow and freezing temperatures. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and changing foliage, though trail access can be limited by snow melt or early storms. Check fire restrictions before arrival during dry periods.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Gamble oaks turn gold and provide scenic fall color; season ends Sept 15 so window is short.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 8 through September 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Seasonal operation from May 8 through September 15.

About Oak Grove Campground

Oak Grove Campground sits at 8,400 feet on a mountain ridge in Lincoln National Forest, with 30 sites tucked under Gamble oaks and Douglas fir. Fees run $6-$10 per night for a mix of tent, RV, and walk-in sites. Views reach across to Sierra Blanca, and the campground stays relatively quiet on weekdays, though weekends and July can fill up.

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.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs around 60–75°F with nights dropping into the 30s–40s. Afternoon monsoon storms roll through briefly but regularly in July and August. Wildflowers peak in early summer. Winter closes most access with snow and freezing temperatures. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and changing foliage, though trail access can be limited by snow melt or early storms. Check fire restrictions before arrival during dry periods.

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 SceneryThe ridge-top location delivers direct views of Sierra Blanca's peaks. Mature Gamble oaks and Douglas fir provide overhead canopy across most sites, with oaks turning gold in fall. Elk graze nearby meadows at dawn, coyotes call in the evenings, and wild horses occasionally pass through the area. Turkey families are regular camp visitors. The forest ecosystem sits dense enough for wildlife cover but open enough for mountain vistas between trees.

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.

Scenic Views'Unbelievable views of the mountains.' Many users highlight the incredible vistas, including open skies, forested surroundings, and mountain landscapes.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or accommodations are available at this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information is provided about cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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 layoutSites are mostly small and close together, with some walk-in tent options offering more separation. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets are spread throughout. The access road is narrow and winding, difficult for trailers.

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.

Best CampsitesSite 11 gets consistent praise for seclusion and works well for tent camping. Other sites vary in privacy. During busy weekends, closely spaced sites reduce privacy, so arriving early improves your odds of securing a more separated spot.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

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 viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

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.

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

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.

Cell CoverageCell phone service quality is described as moderate by a camper, but specifics about coverage and providers are lacking.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

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

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

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

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

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Wildlife watchers and view-chasers on a tight budget: Sierra Blanca vistas, elk at dawn, and occasional wild horses make this worthwhile even without hookups or running water. Site 11 gives the most separation from neighbors. Fall brings cooler crowds and the oaks go gold.

Skip if

RVs over 18 feet won't make the narrow winding access road. No potable water means packing in everything you need to drink. The South Fork Fire closure means nobody should plan a trip here yet, full stop.

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Skyline Campground sits at 9,000 feet in Lincoln National Forest, offering 15 primitive tent sites near the Crest (T25) Trailhead into White Mountain Wilderness. It's free, bare-bones, and sometimes neglected. Expect vault toilets (maybe one working), fire rings, picnic tables, and trash you'll need to pack out yourself. The tradeoff for dealing with broken glass and inconsistent maintenance: sweeping views across the Sierra Blanca peaks and full LTE on Verizon.

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Campgrounds

Lincoln National Forest

Oak Grove Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Oak Grove Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>The campground has 30 campsites with vault toilets, a parking area, fireplaces, tables, and trash cans. Oak forest surroundings are close to mountain vistas of Sierra Blanca.</p>

About the campground

The elevation is 8,400 ft. The campground is on top of a mountain ridge nestled under mature Gamble oaks and Douglas fir. It offers quiet and secluded walk-in tent sites, some of which are a challenge to find. This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

Seasons & access

Open May 8 through September 15

RV information

The Forest Service says: “. . . campground is not recommended for trailers or RVs over 18 feet due to the grades and curves of the access roads."

Directions

In 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.

National Forest: Lincoln National Forest
Ranger District: Smokey Bear
Elevation: 8400
Rate: $6 per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: Sept 15