As of May 7, 2025, Lincoln National Forest has implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions due to increased fire danger across the region. These precautions are vital during Ruidoso’s warmer, drier months—and we ask all visitors to travel responsibly and help protect this beautiful landscape.
Read MoreCamping with kids in Ruidoso can create lifelong memories without the stress. Start small by choosing a nearby campsite and keeping meals simple. Bring comfort items from home to make the tent cozy, and let kids take on small tasks to build excitement. Embrace flexibility, keep it fun, and focus on making memories rather than perfection for a rewarding family adventure.
Read MoreProtect Ruidoso’s natural beauty by practicing wildfire safety while camping and exploring. Learn essential fire prevention tips before you go, from safe campfire practices to trail precautions. Stay informed, follow local guidelines, and enjoy a safe, responsible outdoor adventure in Ruidoso.
Read MoreNeed to know the best places to stock up on outdoor gear for backcountry outings in Ruidoso? Whether you are planning a camping vacation or you’ve forgotten something important, here's where to find everything you need for an outdoor getaway.
Read MoreGrindstone Lake Campground remains CLOSED for the summer 2023 season.
Read MoreDownload these nature apps before your next Ruidoso outdoor vacation. Whether helping you to identify trees, flowers, birds, bugs, and stars, use these handy nature apps to inspire and inform your time outdoors in Ruidoso.
Read MoreThe Smokey Bear Ranger District in Ruidoso offers many different recreation opportunities for all seasons including picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, camping and more.
Read MorePlanning a camping trip in Ruidoso? Whether you’re tent camping, car camping, or traveling in an RV, proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. Learn essential tips on campsite safety, wildlife awareness, fire regulations, and gear essentials before you head into the mountains. Stay prepared and make the most of your Ruidoso adventure.
Read MoreBreak out the tents, hiking boots, and fishing rods because Mescalero Parks and Recreation has officially opened up Silver Lake, Eagle Creek and the Mescalero cabins for summertime fun.
Read MoreWith a convenient downtown location, a fitness room, dry sauna, and easy access to hiking trails, it’s no surprise that Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park made RV Life’s Top 5 list of New Mexico dream RV stays.
Read MoreSouthfork Campground on the Smokey Bear Ranger District near Ruidoso, NM opened its gates for the first time in eight years on Friday, August 14, 2020. A campsite costs $20 per night, $5 per night for each additional vehicle, and is available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Most of the fees will be used to further improve the campground.
Read MoreIf you’re willing to forgo the amenities of commercial campgrounds and RV Parks, the freedom to pitch your tent away in the wilderness of our national forests is available. “Dispersed camping,” as it’s called by the Forest Service, is legal camping in undeveloped campsites, often just off of forest access roads.
Read MoreCamping is not only an awesome vacation for those who love the outdoors, but it's also a great way to keep a Ruidoso vacation affordable. Learn everything you need to know to plan your Ruidoso camping trip now!
Read MoreThe Valley of Fires Recreation Area provides access to the Malpaís, an ancient lava flow, on the east edge of the Carrizozo Malpais about 3 miles west of Carrizozo on U.S. Route 380.
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