As of 2022, Scenic Canyons no longer manages this campground, and this page will no longer be updated. For up to date information, please visit the Forest Service website.

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McCrystal Campground is located at 8,100 feet elevation in the Valle Vidal Wildlife Management Unit, a remote area known for trout fishing, elk hunting and a good chance at viewing black bears. Accessible via about 28 miles of dirt road from Cimarron in the southeast or about 35 miles from Costilla in the northwest. Horseback riding is also a common activity here.

No off-road vehicle use is permitted on this 100,000-acre unit, and camping is allowed only in the two developed campgrounds.
   

Prices:
   $15 per night
    $5 per extra vehicle

    $2 horse waste fee

Reservations: First-come, first-serve only.

Directions: From Cimarron, NM, drive 5 miles north on NM 64 to Cerrososo Canyon. Follow the canyon 21 miles to the unit boundary and Forest Road 1950. McCrystal is on the right side of FR 1950 about 7 miles past the boundary. McCrystal is about 5 miles east of Cimarron Campground.  See map below.

Amenities: Vault toilets. Garbage service. Horse water. Please bring your own drinking water.

Open dates: Memorial Day weekend to last Monday in September, weather permitting.

Nearby: Fishing, hunting and hiking are available nearby.

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See more campgrounds managed by Scenic Canyons in the Carson National Forest.

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For more information, visit the Forest Service website.