BLM Camping

La Cienequilla Petroglyphs

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

Home
Bureau of Land Management
New Mexico
La Cienequilla Petroglyphs

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a federal agency responsible for maintaining and preserving public lands throughout the United States. These areas offer opportunities for Bureau of Land Management camping, hiking, fishing, and more. Some areas have historical or cultural significance. One of these areas is La Cienequilla Petroglyphs. Here, you will find hundreds of petroglyphs that were created by the Keresan-speaking Puebloan people who lived in this area between the 13th and 17th centuries. Dating to before the Spanish Colonial era, these petroglyphs can be seen along the mesa above the Santa Fe River and feature images of hump-backed flute players and different birds. Part of the ancient road that was the route of the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro can also be found here.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

White Mesa and Dragon's Back Trail Loop

White Mesa and Dragon's Back Trail Loop were developed mainly for mountain biking. However, hikers are also welcome. One section of the trail is permitted for equestrian use. In the Morrison formation along this trail, you can find fossils of rare dinosaurs, trees, and plants that date back to the Jurassic period. This area is named after the white gypsum that dominates the area.

Length: 7.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Hoodoo Trail

Hoodoo Trail is an out-and-back trail that offers scenic views and has an elevation gain of 291 feet. Best used from March to October, this trail is moderately trafficked and allows dogs and horses.

Length: 3.3 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Cabezon Peak

Cabezon Peak is accessible year-round and offers plenty of opportunities for avid bird-watchers. This is a lightly trafficked out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 1,292 feet.

Length: 1.9 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Fishing and Boating

The Santa Fe River at the La Cienequilla Petroglyphs offers enthusiastic anglers a chance to catch largemouth bass, Suwannee bass, and bluegill. The best fishing can be found during low tide, and since the primary diet of bass in this river is crawfish, using a crawfish-colored lure will increase your chances.

Climbing

Gallows Edge, 45 miles to the north, offers short and moderate sport routes. This east-facing basalt crag is a great place for winter climbing. Nearby here, there is also The Y, located along a narrow portion of the Los Alamos Canyon. This area offers 45-foot climbs on both sides of the canyon.

Wildlife Viewing

The La Cienequilla Petroglyphs are located right next to the Leonora Cutin Wetland Preserve. This preserve consists of dry uplands, transitional zones, and riparian wetlands. The area is home to many different species of birds, including Cooper's hawk, broad-tailed hummingbird, greater roadrunner, canvasback, and many more. You can also find many species of snakes, bobcats, muskrats, raccoons, skunks, and badgers.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

RV camping can be found less than a mile away from the La Cienequilla Petroglyphs at The RV Park at Hipico Santa Fe. This RV park offers water, 30- and 50-amp hooks, and free Wi-Fi. It is pet friendly and even has horse stalls available. There are no developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds that can accommodate RVs or travel trailers in this area.

Free Camping

There are no developed Bureau of Land Management free camping sites here. However, you can camp anywhere on BLM land for free as long as the area is not posted with "No Camping" signs. Dispersed camping options are available in the area along County Road 62 and Forest Road 102. If you are in an RV, you need to keep your vehicle near the road or on pull-off spots. You can stay in one spot for up to 14 days, at which time you will need to move at least 25 miles away. You should not return to the area to camp for at least 28 days. BLM RV camping is not allowed within 900 feet of developed water sources. This includes troughs and guzzlers. All fire restrictions must be adhered to.

RV Rentals Near La Cienequilla Petroglyphs Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your La Cienequilla Petroglyphs BLM trip

La Cienequilla Petroglyphs are only 13 miles from Santa Fe, where you can find many places to restock on essentials. When planning your trip to the La Cienequilla Petroglyphs, make sure you bring plenty of drinking water, as the temperatures in the summer can get quite high. A good pair of walking or hiking shoes are a must. If you want to go fishing in the Santa Fe River, you will need to obtain the required license and bring all your gear. Make sure you plan on where you are going to stay, whether it be at an RV park or a dispersed area on BLM land. To find opportunities for camping along your trip, search for "BLM camping near me." Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is a must when visiting BLM land, or any wildland for that matter. Do not leave your trash or refuse behind. You must always pack out what you pack in. Do not take any artifacts, rocks, or plants out of the area. Everything must be left as-is. Respect fellow visitors, and if you see trash, pick it up. If we all do our part when visiting these areas, they will be here for many generations to come.