History

Church camp meetings began many years ago in the days of circuit riding missionaries.  Preachers would ride their horses from ranch to ranch, preaching as they went, camping gear in tow.  In those days cowboys and settlers would come from around the area to hear the non-denominational preaching.

The first New Mexico camp meeting was in 1940 at Nogal Mesa, New Mexico. Nogal Mesa is just west of where the original Smokey Bear was found in the small town of Capitan, and only about 20 miles from where Billy The Kid had his final showdown in Lincoln, New Mexico.  But Nogal Mesa is special for a reason all its own, it was chosen because the spot “made you want to remove your hat.” The views from this mesa at sunset where the open sided church sits, are enough to make you take pause and pray as you enjoy your services overlooking the Valley of Carrizozo, New Mexico.

 

That first organizing committee for Nogal Mesa Ranchman’s Camp Meeting decided cooks would be hired, benches would be donated and tents would be provided for services. There were 120 the first attendance and by the last day, 700 were fed in a little over an hour. Five whole beefs were consumed in five days, all cooked over an open fire.

 

While the view is still the same, and cooking is still done over an open fire a few other nuances have changed.  Camp meeting is open to everyone and all ages have some activity in which to participate.  While you still might see some cowboy hats and boots, the majority of the attendees are just regular folk from around the area and beyond. There are a few buildings on the premises, but dont think its lost its primitive feel.  The coffee is perked in a large cast iron kettle and the buildings are open to the elements on the sides, in thanks to the beautiful New Mexico sun shining nearly 300 days a year.

 

Everyone brings their own place to sleep -camper, tent, etc.  Electricity only runs on a generator to provide lights and music at church and is turned off at 10pm. Special events occur multiple times a day for young children through the ages of 18 such as hay rides, water balloon fights, and volley ball on top of providing age appropriate services a few times a day.  Camp services, camping and meals are free.

 

We run off of donations only and need your help to keep the Ranchmans’ Camp Meeting going year after year.