Skyline Campground
4.4324 reviewsSkyline Campground, Forest Road 117, Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico
Quick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.43
Recommended
Based on 24 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."
Fees & Passes at Skyline Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Stay limit is 14 days.
Cancellation: No reservation system is in place; the site operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Lincoln National Forest website.
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.
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
- 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.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground's vault toilets are not wheelchair-friendly. There is no mention of other accessibility features.
Sites SizeStandard tent sites are available.
Sites 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 CampsitesAdvice includes choosing sites with level ground as many are uneven. Sites closer to the second parking area may offer more privacy and better views.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is primitive, with areas spread across two parking locations. Campsites include picnic tables and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen 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.
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.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
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.
Hiking
Visitors 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 viewing
Wildlife 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
During snow-packed seasons, the gate is closed for vehicle access, but campers may hike to the site. Activities like snowshoeing are not explicitly mentioned but could be implied due to the site's elevation and winter accessibility.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted under normal conditions, but restricted during burn bans.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards 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.
Weather at Skyline Campground
35
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are likely located in Ruidoso, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash service is available. Visitors must pack out their trash, as emphasized in the official description.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes, rivers, or streams are present near the campground.
Common complaintsCommon complaints from user reviews include 'trash lying around,' 'broken glass bottles,' and 'neglected campsites.' Only one restroom may be operational, and it is sometimes missing a lock.
Campground Map
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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
24 reviews
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 24 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 24 reviewsShow more
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 24 reviewsShow more
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 24 reviewsSeasonal 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 24 reviewsShow more
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 24 reviewsSite-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 24 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities were found. However, the campground is described as lacking wheelchair-friendly toilets.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but one user reported that a herd of wild horses startled pets at the site.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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