Welcome to Lincoln National Forest

The Lincoln National Forest has not one, but three major mountain ranges: Sacramento, Guadalupe and Capitan that cover 1.1 million acres in southeastern New Mexico. Elevations range from 4,000 to 11,500 feet and pass through five life zones from Chihuahuan desert to sub-alpine forest. It offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, camping, and dirt bike riding. It is also home to Smokey Bear who was found on the Lincoln National Forest in 1950.

Plan Your Trip

• Maps and Guides

  

  Get forest maps in your preferred format and be prepared for your visit. Formats include interactive, mobile, downloadable, and print. 

  Maps and Guides

• Fire Information

  

  Review fire restrictions before your visit to prevent causing a wildfire. Check for prescribed fires or active wildfires on the forest.

  Fire Information

• Passes and Permits

  

  Some activities on the forest require a pass or permit like firewood collection, Christmas tree cutting, filming, photography, guiding, outfitting, and holding events in the forest.

  Passes and Permits

Featured News

• Smokey Bear Leads State Fair Parade

  

  Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford and his wife Traci served alongside Smokey as Grand Marshalls for the State Fair Parade, in recognition of the ongoing recovery efforts in communities affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires earlier this year.

• Smokey Bear Reading Challenge

  

  Help celebrate Smokey’s 80th Birthday by joining the Smokey Bear Reading Challenge. Learn about wildfires and nature. Read books, take action, and have fun!

Discover More About the Lincoln National Forest

• Caring for the Land

  

  National Forests contribute essential elements to our well-being, including clean air, water and soil. Find out how we are improving the health of the Lincoln National Forest through proper planning and restoration projects.

  Land Management

• Enchantment Pass

  

  Plan your New Mexico adventures and save money! The Enchantment Pass offers access to dozens of New Mexico National Forests’ recreation areas for one low annual fee of $40.

  Get a Pass Today