GOC First Timers Tips

GPS Coordinates: 32.925152, -105.699934

Directions: Go to Cloudcroft, New Mexico. Take Hwy 130 South out of Cloudcroft for 1.2 miles. Turn left at Sleepy Grass Campground or 0.7 miles. Turn right on 5661 for 3.9 miles, on left. Signs will be posted.

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General tips and helpful information:

GPS Coordinates: 32.925152, -105.699934

Directions: Go to Cloudcroft, New Mexico. Take Hwy 130 South out of Cloudcroft for 1.2 miles. Turn left at Sleepy Grass Campground or 0.7 miles. Turn right on 5661 for 3.9 miles, on left. Signs will be posted.

1. Be prepared, pack well, test your equipment, learn to operate and prepare all of your equipment, in advance. 

2. This campground is a special gift for us each year, and if we want to return here in the years to come we must care 

for it. LEAVE NO TRACE. Do not leave anything that did not grow there. Refill fire pits.

3. There will be port-a-potties available. These are shared facilities and everyone is encouraged to keep them clean and user friendly.

4. It’s recommended that you bring all you will need as the mountain road  takes some time to travel. 30 minutes to Cloudcroft, 1 hour to Alamogordo, each way.

5. Bring plenty of water to drink, cook and wash with.  Sometimes water is available at Sleepy Grass Campground.

6. Be mindful of food storage so as not to attract animals or insects. 

7. Prepare your vehicle.  Passenger cars can drive the rocky  sections of 5661 with patience and diligence. 

8. Bring warm clothing and a warm sleeping bag for the nights, as it will likely drop into the forties during the dark hours.

9. The sun (UV rays) is stronger at this elevation. Use care not to burn.

10. Do not forget your cameras, medications, binoculars, hiking boots, flashlight, raincoats, rainfly for your tent, and two chairs with your name on them. One for your campsite and one for the main circle. 

11. A propane grill is a good idea for cooking, especially if open flames are restricted or discouraged. 

12. As a reminder, GOC is a spiritual gathering in a sacred place. Drugs and alcohol are not permitted. 

13. There is a pot-luck community meal. Feel free to contribute a favorite dish, side dish or dessert.

14. Bring a plainly wrapped gift for the Give-Away if you choose to participate. (More information about the Give-Away can be found under the Who We Are tab).

15. Family dogs are welcome, but please keep the following in mind:

     A. Many species of wildlife are in the area (some quite large and dangerous) and could potentially see your pet as prey.

     B. Dogs must be on leash at the main circle as others may also have dogs.

     C. When leaving your dog at your campsite, it must be restrained to ensure the safety of others passing by.

     D.  You are responsible for any injury your dog may inflict on others.

     E.  If you are walking through another’s campsite, be alert for their dog. Do not try to pet another person’s dog without their permission!

      F. Excessive barking should be controlled.