James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF
Mayhill NM Boondocking Location
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| US-82 Mayhill, New Mexico GPS: 32.90469, -105.505058 |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official) 575-682-2551 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location: The road in is Gravel. James Canyon Campground is open from April thru November. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 16. You may stay 7 Days at James Canyon Campground.
James Canyon Campground is located 2 miles west of Mayhill on US 82. The Campground offer 7 units with tables and grills (2 units are drive-in, the other five require a very short walk across a small bridge). The lower elevation of 6,800′ means this small site is usable longer than most Sacramento Mountain area campgrounds when the snows begin.
Picnic tables, grills, 16’ RV limit. One vault toilet unit available but there is no water available anywhere within the campground. The closest towns are Mayhill about 2 miles east with very limited services and Cloudcroft about 17 miles west with most services.
About This Location
If you’re after a quiet boondocking spot near Lincoln National Forest, James Canyon Campsite in New Mexico is worth a look. You’ll find six campsites just off US 82, about two miles before Mayhill—easy to spot and get to. The James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location sits at 6,800 feet, so you get a longer camping season than at higher elevations.
James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location sits on a working ranch, offering a simple, natural setting away from busy crowds. There aren’t many facilities, but the peaceful vibe and open space make it a solid pick for folks who want a low-key camping experience in the woods. Whether you’ve got an RV or a tent, it’s a good base for exploring Lincoln National Forest and whatever else is nearby.
Location And Access
James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location is tucked inside Lincoln National Forest, New Mexico, about 2 miles before Mayhill on US Highway 82.
You’ll see a pull-off from US 82 that leads right to the campsite—it’s pretty obvious from the road.
At 6,800 feet, the site stays accessible longer through the year than some of the higher spots around here.
You’ll find about 5 or 6 primitive campsites along the road. It’s not a huge place, but it’s convenient for boondocking.
Parking’s right next to the campsites, so you won’t have to lug your gear far.
The campsite sits near open ranch land and some tucked-away arroyos, giving you a quiet, natural backdrop.
Coming from Mayhill? Just head west on US 82. The easy access off the main road makes it a handy stop for travelers and campers.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
To get to James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location, start in Cloudcroft, New Mexico. Take US Highway 82 east for about 16.5 miles toward Mayhill.
The James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location is about 2 miles before Mayhill. Watch for a pull-off on the right—can’t really miss it.
You’ll find a small, free campsite with a handful of developed sites. Two parking spots sit right by the camping area, with four more tent-only sites a short walk away.
It’s a simple, quiet camp—no hookups, just a close-to-nature experience. RVs and tents both work fine, as long as you’re okay with basic.
The roads are paved and generally easy to drive, but the terrain can get steep here and there, so take it slow.
Bring your own water and supplies—the campsite doesn’t provide much.
If you want something more remote, dispersed or roadside camping is allowed nearby in Lincoln National Forest. But James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location is a bit safer and more developed.
Amenities And Activities
James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location keeps it basic. Every site comes with a picnic table, a fire ring, and access to a vault toilet. No running water, so bring plenty for your stay.
There are five sites total, making it a quiet spot. Tents and small campers fit best. The 6,800-foot elevation means you can camp here longer each year than at higher places.
You’ve got a bunch of outdoor activities nearby:
- Hiking
- Mountain biking
- Horseback riding
- ATV riding
- Wildlife viewing
- Stargazing
- Photography
The forest and valleys around you set a scenic stage for whatever you’re into. Mayhill’s area is peaceful and honestly, the natural beauty is hard to beat.
If you show up with your own gear and water, James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location makes a solid free camping choice. It’s for folks who love being close to nature but still want a few basics.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
When you camp at James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location, you’ll need to follow a few rules to keep the forest and other campers safe. The site welcomes tents and trailers, but RVs can’t be longer than 16 feet.
You can pick a designated camping area or try dispersed camping nearby. With dispersed camping, you’re allowed to stay up to 16 days in one spot. After that, you’ll need to move at least 5 miles down the road.
There are no fees here. Facilities include picnic tables, toilets, and parking. Follow the Leave No Trace principles. Always pack out everything you bring in—no one likes a messy campsite.
Sometimes you can have a campfire, but always check current fire restrictions first. Use the grills or fire rings provided to cut down on wildfire risk.
Key rules to keep in mind:
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum RV length | 16 feet |
| Maximum dispersed camping stay | 16 days per area |
| Moving distance after 16 days | At least 5 miles |
| Fees | None |
| Available amenities | Picnic tables, toilets, parking |
Stick to these rules and you’ll have a safe, responsible camping trip at James Canyon.
Leave No Trace
When you’re camping at James Canyon Campsite Lincoln NF Mayhill NM boondocking location, sticking to Leave No Trace principles really helps keep the place special. Pack out all your trash and leftover food—don’t try to bury or burn any waste. That stuff just doesn’t disappear.
Stick to established roads and campsites. Driving more than 300 feet off the main roads? That’s only allowed in certain spots, and for good reason. Nobody wants to see ruts or trampled plants everywhere. Please don’t make new fire rings or campsites; the old ones are there for a reason.
A camp stove is honestly way easier (and safer) than building a fire. But if you really want a fire, use the rings that are already there and keep it small. Before you leave, drown it, stir it, and double-check that it’s out. No one wants to deal with a smoldering mess.
Give wildlife plenty of space. Watch them from afar—don’t feed them or try to get close. Keep your food locked away so you’re not inviting curious critters into your camp.
Try to keep the noise down. The quiet is part of what makes the forest feel wild, and it’s just considerate to the other folks out there.
And hey, leave the plants, rocks, and any old stuff you find right where they are. Taking souvenirs just isn’t cool, especially if it’s something cultural.
| Leave No Trace Tips | What You Should Do |
|---|---|
| Pack out all trash | Carry all garbage with you |
| Use existing campsites | Camp only where others have camped |
| Avoid new fire rings | Use established fire sites |
| Respect wildlife | Watch from a distance |
| Minimize noise | Keep voices and sounds low |
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Fire Ring Picnic Tables Grills Restrooms |
RV Camping Tent Camping Mountain Biking Hiking ATV Riding Photography Stargazing Wildlife Viewing |
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