Camp Grounds

The campgrounds have evolved from basic facilities for loggers to comprehensive, amenity-rich sites for recreation and relaxation, all while preserving the natural beauty and history of the region

The campgrounds around Cloudcroft boast a rich history intertwined with the development of the village itself. Initially a logging town, Cloudcroft became a tourist haven by the early 20th century. The campgrounds have evolved from basic facilities to accommodate loggers to comprehensive, amenity-rich sites for recreation and relaxation, all while preserving the natural beauty and history of the region.

Detailed Descriptions and Features:
Each campground in the Cloudcroft area offers its unique appeal:

• Silver Campground: Known for its dense forest canopy, it provides a serene experience. Facilities include picnic tables, fire rings, and accessibility for RVs.

• Slide Campground: This site is favored for its proximity to the Slide Trail, offering stunning views and challenging hikes.

• Apache Campground: A haven for families, this campground features playgrounds, easy access to fishing spots, and spacious sites for larger groups.

Experiences and Activities:
Activities in these campgrounds cater to a range of interests:

• Hiking and Biking: Trails like the Osha Trail and Rim Trail offer breathtaking views and varying difficulty levels.

• Wildlife Watching: These areas are home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, and numerous bird species.

• Winter Sports: Come winter, Cloudcroft transforms into a snowy retreat with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.

Seasonal Variations:
Cloudcroft’s campgrounds offer distinct experiences each season. Summers are perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, while autumns bring a cascade of fall colors. Winters are ideal for snow sports, and springs provide a refreshing escape with blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures.

Conservation and Environmental Impact:
The management of Cloudcroft's campgrounds emphasizes conservation. Initiatives include strict waste disposal policies, habitat protection measures, and educational programs on sustainable camping practices.

Visitor Testimonials and Recommendations:
Visitors often praise the tranquility, natural beauty, and range of activities. Tips include booking in advance during peak seasons and exploring less-traveled trails for a more intimate experience with nature.

1. Deerhead Campground

   • Location: Adjacent to the Village of Cloudcroft.

   • Sites: Offers 20 sites.

   • Facilities: Drive-in access, tent, and RV sites, picnic table, drinking water, toilets, allows alcohol, pets, and fires​​​​​​​.

2. Sleepy Grass Campground

   • Location: Just south of the Village of Cloudcroft.

   • Sites: 15 units in total (2 double, three triple, and ten single units).

   • Facilities: Drive-in access, tent and RV sites, including standard, group, and tent cabin sites, ADA access, firewood available, phone service, reservable, drinking water, toilets, alcohol, pets, and fires​​​​​​​.

3. Bailey Canyon Campground

   • Access: Both drive-in and walk-in.

   • Sites: Offers tent and RV sites, standard (tent/RV), and group sites.

   • Facilities: Firewood is available, and phone service allows alcohol, pets, and fires​​​​​.

4. Slide Group Area Campground

   • Location: Two miles from the village of Cloudcroft.

   • Sites: Accommodates groups of up to 90 visitors.

   • Facilities: Drive-in access, tent, and RV sites, including standard (tent/RV) and group sites, reservable, allows pets and fires​​​​​​​.

5. 16 Springs Camping

   • Location: In the Lincoln National Forest near Cloudcroft.

   • Cost: $55 per night.

   • Sites: Offers RV and standard (tent/RV) sites.

   • Facilities: Drive-in, walk-in, hike-in access, market, trash, picnic table, firewood available, reservable, showers, electric hookups, toilets, alcohol, pets, and fires​​​​​​​.