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BLM Camping

Crow Canyon Petroglyphs


The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Established in 1946, the Bureau of Land Management is a federal agency that maintains our public lands for recreational and other uses while preserving the cultural and historic resources of those lands. Crow Canyon Petroglyphs in New Mexico is an amazing example of the BLM's preservation of Native American culture. Campers will find the Crow Canyon Petroglyphs offers more than a place to park your RV. Outdoor activities and tourist attractions are abundant here, but Navajo culture is the predominant attraction at this BLM site. The ruins and rock art date from the 16th to 18th centuries and are located in the area that is the homeland of the Navajo people. Most visitors here hike to the 44 Panel, a significant petroglyph. Mesa Verde National Park is approximately 100 miles away, via US-160W.

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Main Panel Trail

Hikers find this Crow Canyon trail well worth the effort. The rocky terrain is dog-friendly. It has a 72-foot elevation gain, no shade, and a gem at the end of the route. This hike leads you to the main panel of petroglyphs. Length: 0.6 miles Intensity: Easy

44 Panel Trail

The path to 44 Panel is a little challenging. The BLM recommends visitors arrive in a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. Brown mylar trail markers lead hikers onward toward the 44 Panel. The sight of the Navajo petroglyphs is worth the walk. Length: 1.6 miles Intensity: Easy

Shaft House

If you are in great shape, add this trek to the 44 Panel hike. The trail's elevation makes this hike challenging. The Shaft House hike rewards you with great views of Navajo art! Length: 3.0 miles Intensity: Moderate-to-difficult

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

The Navajo Dam area has several boat ramps, and check out Sims Marina at Navajo Lake State Park for slips and dry storage. Boat rentals, paddle boards, and hydro bikes are also available to rent. Crusher Hole, on the San Juan River, is a popular fishing spot with a boat ramp. Vereda Del Rio San Juan Park & Boat Launch is a little further away in Bloomfield, NM. It is a city park with ample aquatic amenities.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

Chaco Culture National Historical Park is a 70-mile drive from Crow Canyon Petroglyphs BLM site. The visitor center has an abundance of things to do. Outside, you might see elk, deer, bobcats, rabbits, badgers, porcupines, bats, snakes, and lizards. Bird watchers are in for a real treat as this area is home to diverse bird populations.

Picnicking

Picnicking is available at most of the city parks in nearby Bloomfield and Farmington. RV campers ought to visit nearby Navajo Lake State Park. The park is open for day use and has seven campgrounds with 244 developed sites and two marinas. Showers, vault toilets, and group picnic shelters are available.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

In the vicinity of this BLM campgrounds site, RVers will find several private sites. Moore's RV Park and Campground is close to many tourist attractions in Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. RV Park Archuleta, a small and private RV campground, is on the banks of the San Juan River. Also nearby on the Navajo Lake are Sims Mesa Campground and Elks Lodge Campground. BLM RV camping near Crow Canyon Petroglyphs is possible. Navajo Lake State Park has several convenient campsites. Pine Campground is 35 miles away. The Cottonwood Campground and Crusher Campground are close to the Simon Canyon Trailhead. You can find many more sites by searching for "BLM camping near me."

Free Camping Campground Icon

Bureau of Land Management free camping is abundant in New Mexico. Dispersed camping, also known as boondocking, provides RVers with the ultimate outdoor experience. When camping, it is important to follow certain guidelines and respect the environment. Avoid camping within 900 feet of any developed water source. Do not camp in any location for more than 14 days in a 28-day period to allow for fair and equal use of the area by other visitors.

RV Rentals Near Crow Canyon Petroglyphs Plan your next adventure

Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Crow Canyon Petroglyphs BLM trip

Ready to embark on your journey to Crow Canyon Petroglyphs? Here are a few tips. First, always check weather conditions, including regional fire restrictions. Second, be aware of safety precautions. This BLM site does not have any modern structures. Restrooms and drinking water are not available. Be prepared with ample water for your hikes on public lands. Finally, do not touch the artwork. Acids from human skin can deteriorate the ancient art. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds ask visitors to leave no trace of their visit. First, plan ahead and be prepared. Think about what gear you'll need and the potential challenges you might face. Then, as you venture through these incredible landscapes, be mindful of your impact. Stick to durable surfaces when traveling and camping so that you don't harm their delicate ecosystems. Make sure to dispose of waste properly to keep these places clean and fresh for everyone's benefit. Campfires are a quintessential part of the outdoor experience, but do your best to minimize their impact and make sure they're completely extinguished before you move on. Respect the local wildlife by giving them space and observing from a safe distance. Lastly, be considerate of your fellow adventurers.

Leave No Trace
Location

Crow Canyon Petroglyphs Location

Starting at the intersection of Highway 64 and County Road 4450, drive for 19 miles south on CR-4450. You'll see signs for Largo Wash. From there, proceed north and drive about one mile to Crow Canyon. To reach 44 Panel, follow the posted signs. GPS coordinates: 36.54701, -107.6166667 Ready to visit Crow Canyon Petroglyphs? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.