| alert |
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| contractID |
NRSO |
| description |
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. |
| drivingDirection |
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) sideof road across from Aspen Group Area. |
| facilitiesDescription |
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. |
| facility |
BLACK BEAR GROUP AREA |
| facilityID |
70070 |
| fullReservationUrl |
http://www.reserveamerica.com/campsiteSearch.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70070&cmp=39-32--joewils |
| importantInformation |
Black Bear Group Area accommodates up to 70 people. Call (575) 682-7570 or (575) 443-4067 prior to arrival to get the lock combination. There is no public phone. Fire restrictions may apply. There is no water at this site; water may be obtained at Deerhead Campground until Labor Day. Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org. |
| nearbyAttrctionDescription |
The campground is a mile from Cloudcroft, a quaint tourist village with New Mexico's only standing railroad trestle. It's 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. |
| note |
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| orientationDescription |
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. |
| recreationDescription |
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. |