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Black Bear is perched atop the scenic Sacramento Mountains of south-central New Mexico, near Alamogordo and Cloudcroft. The site is surrounded by the aromatic pine trees and aspen groves of Lincoln National Forest. The group area is conveniently connected to a network of hiking and biking trails. Bring your camera and binoculars for the chance to spot elk, deers, birds, and even black bear.
The black bears are arguably the most celebrated wildlife in the area due to the fact that the original Smokey Bear was found here. While battling a fire in 1950, firefighters rescued a burned bear cub clinging to a scorched tree in Lincoln National Forest. The bear was adopted by the US Forest Service and became the real-life mascot for forest fire prevention.
Natural Features:
Set 9,000 feet above sea level in the Sacramento Mountains, Black Bear is in a pine forest area overlooking the desert valley of the Tularosa Basin. The basin stretches 6,500 square miles between the Sacramentos and the San Andres Mountains.
Recreation:
Evening skies are often clear of clouds - bring a telescope for stargazing. The campground is surrounded by a series of hiking trails. A popular hike is the Osha Trail, which is a 2.5-mile loop.
Facilities:
Whether for a family reunion or a large social event, Black Bear is a convenient location for groups up to 70. No water is provided at this site, but it is available at Deerhead Campground from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Nearby Attractions:
The campground is a mile from Cloudcroft, a quaint tourist village with New Mexicos only standing railroad trestle. Its also a quarter mile from the Rim Trail, which is popular for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Other nearby trails are open to ATV enthusiasts.
In southeast New Mexico, approximately 20 miles east of Alamagordo. From Alamagordo take US 82 east. Go 16 miles. Just before Cloudcroft, turn right (south) on NM 130. Go 1.4 miles. Turn left (east) on ForestRoad 24B. Go .5 miles. Black Bear Group area is on right (south) side of road across from Aspen Group Area.
Realy nice olace to spend the weakend. There is no litter absolutely non and realy fresh weather coming from.the heat of el paso I was realy glad
Come here on a yearly basis and it’s always a great time. Very clean and fun. Lots of space for a huge group camp out. Lots of tables and space for tents. Plenty of wood for the fireplace. If you get a chance stay here! If you have T-Mobile, service will be none to limited. ATT is decent. Verizon is decent.
