Lincoln National Forest

Lincoln National Forest spans over 824,000 acres across south-central New Mexico, offering a mix of forest and open terrain managed by the US Forest Service as multi-use public land. The forest supports hiking and backpacking on a network of trails, dispersed camping throughout the forest, fishing in streams and alpine lakes, and scenic driving routes that wind through the landscape. Hunting is available during designated seasons. Access is straightforward from nearby communities, and the forest is open year-round, though weather and snow can limit high-elevation travel in winter months. Summer and early fall are the most popular and accessible periods for recreation.