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Smokey Bear RD

Capitan, New Mexico · Lincoln County · Facility

The Smokey Bear Ranger District offers many different recreation opportunities for all seasons.Winter SportsScenic ViewingPicnickingGroup PicnickingCampingGroup CampingDispersed or "road-side" camping: You may drive to park your RV no more than 300' from an open road designated for such use. Please check with one of ou…

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33.56940, -105.54230
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About Smokey Bear RD

The Smokey Bear Ranger District offers many different recreation opportunities for all seasons.Winter SportsScenic ViewingPicnickingGroup PicnickingCampingGroup CampingDispersed or "road-side" camping: You may drive to park your RV no more than 300' from an open road designated for such use. Please check with one of our offices to obtain a free Motor Vehicle Use Map which details exactly what roads you are allowed to disperse camp along. Most roads, outside of US and State Highways are available for this use. Please be mindful that there are many private land inholdings within the Forest and these lands are not available for camping.Trails:We offer trails ranging in use from hiking, pack/saddle, mountain biking, motorcycle riding and ATV riding (less than 50" in width). Most side-by-sides are greater than 50" in width and exceed a weight limit, these can be enjoyed on our dirt roads. Most of the trails within this district reside within the White Mountain and Capitan Wilderness Areas, so for a motorized Off Highway Vehicle experience, there are a handful of trails but nearly all of our dirt roads are available for use.There is little to no water available in many places so please bring what you need and be safe.

Plan Your Visit to Smokey Bear RD

Heading to Smokey Bear RD? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Smokey Bear RD?

No central reservation system listed for Smokey Bear RD. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/240810) for the latest entry policy and availability.