Skyline Campground

4.44

76 reviews

Skyline Campground, Forest Road 117, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico

Scenic ViewsStargazing

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Lincoln National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Lincoln National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Skyline Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The campground is free to use, with no charges for campsites or amenities.

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

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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 76 reviews

68 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeaceful

"User reviews generally highlight Skyline Campground’s breathtaking views, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to nature. However, complaints about maintenance, such as trash and limited access to restrooms, are common."

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Campground Map

Skyline Campground, Forest Road 117, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico

Skyline Campground

Skyline Campground, Forest Road 117, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico

Driving directionsFollow NM 48 north out of Ruidoso for 4 miles and turn west (left) on NM 532 for 1 mile. Turn north (right) onto Forest Road 117 for 4 miles. The road is gravel, and the last 2 miles can be rough. Alternatively, 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 the sign and go 0.9 miles to Skyline Campground sign. Turn right at the sign onto Forest Rt. 117 (dirt) and go 0.7 miles to 'Y' intersection. Bear left at the intersection and go 3.9 miles to the campground sign. Turn left at sign into the campground. Note: A second parking area and sites are 0.1 miles further down the road on the left. Forest Rt. 117 is washboard and rocky.

Access is via a well-kept but steep gravel road, which can become rough during inclement weather. Forest Rt. 117 is described as washboard and rocky. Trailers are not allowed.

Nearby places

Ruidoso is the nearest city, approximately 8.9 miles away or about a 15-minute drive.

Nearby supplies

Essential supplies like groceries and fuel can be obtained in Ruidoso.

Best Time to Camp at Skyline Campground

Life at 9,000 feet means experiencing nature's full spectrum of moods. Winter transforms Skyline into a snow-laden wonderland, though access roads may become challenging or impassable when storms roll through. Spring announces itself with fierce March and April winds that test tent stakes and send clouds racing across the peaks. Summer brings crisp, dry days perfect for hiking, with refreshing mountain breezes that offer relief from the valleys below. Each season paints the landscape in different hues, from winter's pristine whites to summer's golden meadows, creating an ever-changing backdrop for your mountain escape.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers great views and hiking access but can be windy with occasional storms.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall brings cooler temps and vibrant scenery; reviewers call it a highlight season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring conditions variable with snowmelt; fewer explicit review details available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter is scenic and snowy but vehicle access may be restricted; camping possible only if prepared.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open year-round, though access may be restricted during snow-packed seasons when the gate is closed. Campers may hike to the site during these periods.

About Skyline Campground

Perched high above the clouds at 9,000 feet, Skyline Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience in Lincoln National Forest. This remote mountain sanctuary offers 17 intimate tent-only sites, each equipped with a picnic table and grill where you can savor meals while gazing across the spectacular Sierra Blanca Mountains. As a gateway to the White Mountain Wilderness via the Crest (T25) Trailhead, this rustic retreat strips camping down to its essence—no running water, no trash service, no RV hookups—just you, your gear, and the untamed beauty of the high country. True to its leave-no-trace ethos, visitors pack out everything they bring in, preserving this alpine haven for generations to come.

Skyline Campground is a primitive campground designed exclusively for tent camping. It does not accommodate RVs or trailers due to the rugged road access and lack of hookups.

Historical SignificanceJust beyond the campground stands the historic Monjeau Lookout, a sentinel that has watched over these mountains for decades. This iconic fire tower invites visitors to climb its stairs and witness the same sweeping vistas that forest rangers have monitored for generations. From its lofty perch, the entire wilderness unfolds in a 360-degree panorama that connects you to the legacy of those who've protected these lands—a humbling reminder of humanity's role as stewards of the wild.

Weather and SeasonsLife at 9,000 feet means experiencing nature's full spectrum of moods. Winter transforms Skyline into a snow-laden wonderland, though access roads may become challenging or impassable when storms roll through. Spring announces itself with fierce March and April winds that test tent stakes and send clouds racing across the peaks. Summer brings crisp, dry days perfect for hiking, with refreshing mountain breezes that offer relief from the valleys below. Each season paints the landscape in different hues, from winter's pristine whites to summer's golden meadows, creating an ever-changing backdrop for your mountain escape.

ElevationAt 9,000 feet above sea level, Skyline Campground exists in that rare realm where earth meets sky. Here, the air carries a crystalline quality that sharpens distant peaks into focus and transforms sunsets into theatrical displays of color. The elevation brings natural air conditioning even on summer's warmest days, while nights invite you to bundle up under star-studded skies that seem close enough to touch. This lofty perch offers more than just views—it's a natural escape from the heat and haze of lower elevations.

Natural Features and ScenerySkyline's mountaintop setting delivers panoramic theater with the Sierra Blanca Mountains and White Mountain Wilderness as the main stage. The campground occupies an open ridgeline where mountain pines stand sentinel, though evidence of past wildfires adds a haunting beauty to the landscape with weathered snags creating natural sculptures against the sky. This elevated ecosystem pulses with life—majestic elk graze in nearby meadows, owls call through the twilight, deer pick their way along forest edges, and if you're fortunate, you might glimpse the wild horses that roam these high country passages. Each dawn and dusk transforms the surrounding peaks into a canvas of alpenglow, rewarding early risers and evening wanderers with nature's most spectacular light shows.

Geological RegionCrowning the ancient Sierra Blanca Mountains, Skyline Campground occupies a geological throne room carved by millions of years of uplift and erosion. This 9,000-foot aerie within Lincoln National Forest serves as your launching point into the White Mountain Wilderness, where the Crest (T25) Trailhead opens doorways to ridge walks and peak bagging adventures. The surrounding peaks tell stories written in stone—volcanic origins, tectonic shifts, and the patient work of wind and water that sculpted these heights into their current dramatic forms. From this elevated basecamp, the entire geological tapestry of southern New Mexico spreads before you in layers of time and terrain.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Stay limit is 14 days.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground is primitive, with areas spread across two parking locations. Campsites include picnic tables and grills.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are accepted for this campground.

Walk-in AvailabilityOperates as a walk-up campground, with all 17 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system is in place; the site operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

AccessibilityThe campground's vault toilets are not wheelchair-friendly. There is no mention of other accessibility features.

Site SizeStandard tent sites are available.

PrivacyThe campground offers a mix of open areas and some degree of natural privacy from trees. A user highlighted, 'Trees formed a circle around our campsite for shade. It was perfect!

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesAdvice includes choosing sites with level ground as many are uneven. Sites closer to the second parking area may offer more privacy and better views.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Skyline Campground provides opportunities for hiking and picnicking, with access to the Crest (T25) Trailhead leading into the White Mountain Wilderness. The scenic location and high elevation also make it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, stargazing, and enjoying breathtaking mountain views.

HikingVisitors can access the Crest (T25) Trailhead directly from the campground, offering a gateway to the White Mountain Wilderness. The trail features breathtaking mountain views and is suitable for day hikes.

Wildlife viewingWildlife such as deer, elk, and wild horses can frequently be observed. A user reported, 'Falling asleep you hear elk calls and wake up to them with beautiful birds singing.' Another noted, 'Woke up to wild horses chilling in our camp.'

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHazards include high winds, cold temperatures, and wildlife such as elk, wild horses, and bears. Campers should practice safe food storage techniques to mitigate bear risks.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted under normal conditions, but restricted during burn bans.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are likely located in Ruidoso, including hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingNo trash service is available. Visitors must pack out their trash, as emphasized in the official description.

Water FeaturesNo lakes, rivers, or streams are present near the campground.

Weather at Skyline Campground

Reviews

4.4

76 reviews

Recommended

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

User reviews generally highlight Skyline Campground’s breathtaking views, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to nature. However, complaints about maintenance, such as trash and limited access to restrooms, are common.

Review Summaries

Based on 76 reviews

What Campers Love

Users are particularly impressed with the 'spectacular views', the peacefulness of the campground, and the opportunity to observe wildlife such as deer and elk. One user noted the excellent...

Based on 76 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor maintenance, such as trash ('broken glass bottles everywhere' and 'a lot of trash laying around'), and issues with restroom availability ('only one of two bathrooms was...

Based on 76 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

'Pack out what you pack in' is strongly emphasized. Campers recommend securing tents properly due to high winds. Visitors also suggest exploring the nearby Monjeau Lookout for even better views.

Based on 76 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During the winter, snow can restrict vehicle access, requiring campers to hike to the site. Summer visitors warn of strong winds and occasional rainstorms. Fall offers cooler temperatures and vibrant...

Based on 76 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'What an experience. Breathtaking mountain views abound.' – David Brown 2. 'The stars in the night are super clear.' – Rafael Urias 3. 'It was peaceful, you can hear owls, horses, and elk.' – bmo

Based on 76 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites are not numbered in reviews, but some users note that only a few sites are level enough for tents. One user mentioned, 'Trees formed a circle around our campsite for shade.'

Based on 76 reviews