Carrissa Lookout

Facility · New Mexico ·

Managed by the USDA Forest Service

Lincoln National Forest (NF) · Open Access

8,445 ft
Elevation

The Carrisa Lookout complex contains the lookout, Observer’s cabin, shed and outhouse. This 7’ X 7’ Aermotor MC-39 cab sits upon an 80 foot high steel tower erected in 1934. Carrisa’s Observers cabin and shed were constructed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The site’s structures were restored in 2012, and will be considered for future rental program. The Carrisa Lookout Complex is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

The road to the lookout is gated and closed but access to the area by foot is possible. This site is being converted soon to a cabin rental site, so stay tuned.

Getting there

32.67617, -105.61958 · 32°40'34.2"N 105°37'10.5"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F————————————
Low °F————————————
Precip in1.31.61.70.80.91.65.44.82.82.01.52.3

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 18.4 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Member photos

Common questions about Carrissa Lookout

Can you reserve a site at Carrissa Lookout?
No. Carrissa Lookout is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.

Camping near Carrissa Lookout

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.