Our Village

Situated in the heart of New Mexico (Lincoln county), we are surrounded by the vast Lincoln National Forest. Capitan Village is a quaint town, which enjoys a lifestyle and pace sheltered from the frantic pace of larger cities.

Nestled between the Capitan and Sacramento mountains, the Village enjoys a temperate climate year round. At an elevation of 6,530 feet we boast beautiful, sunny, summer days cooled by the fresh mountain breeze. In the winter we relish in the beauty of snow-capped mountains and enjoy excellent skiing conditions.

Capitan gained national recognition in 1950 when a human-caused forest fire ravaged out of control, devastating the area. A five pound, badly burned miracle was found clinging to a tree. This little bear became known as Smokey Bear and quickly won the hearts of Americans. From the smoke and ashes of destruction emerged a living symbol of wildfire prevention. Buried on the grounds of Smokey Bear Historical Park, he remains a beloved figure of our community to this day.

Places to Go and Things to See

There’s something to appeal to everyone in the family here in Lincoln County. Besides the obvious attraction of our beautiful scenery, temperate weather, and national forest, Lincoln County is a popular tourist destination. Home to a community of talented artisans and craftsmen, our historic towns offer a variety of dining, boutique shopping, and unique entertainment experiences.

For those who relish in our “rowdier” history, visit us in nearby Old Lincoln, known as the “stomping grounds of Billy the Kid.” Here you will find a town that looks much the same now as it did over 100 years ago. Enjoy food, live entertainment, artisan displays, and a pageant depicting the “Last Escape of Billy the Kid.” During Old Lincoln Days, come participate in a variety of fun activities ranging from lectures to gunfights. If a slower pace appeals more to you, enjoy a self-guided tour tracing the path of the famous outlaw and dedicated lawmen who traveled in treacherous conditions along Billy Byway.

Nearby is the living ghost town of White Oaks. The town hosts the White Oaks Artists Studio Tour each April and celebrates its rowdy hey-days during Gold Rush Days in June.