Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is one of the most fascinating BLM destinations you'll find in New Mexico. RV travelers can camp right alongside thousands of ancient rock carvings. This site is located between Tularosa and Carrizozo. It features a developed campground with RV sites. You can enjoy scenic desert views, close access to the self-guided trail, wildlife viewing, hiking, photography and exceptional stargazing with more than 21,000 petroglyphs from the Jornada Mogollon people. This is an excellent destination for RV goers who enjoy a blend of peaceful desert camping, archaeology and outdoor recreation.
Quick Facts About RVing in Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
• RV Friendly: Yes • Max RV Length: No official maximum (2 RV hookup sites available) • Camping Type: Developed campground and tent camping • Reservations: Recommended for the group site; individual campsites are generally first come, first served • Hookups: Yes (2 RV sites with water and electric hookups) • Dump Station: No • Potable Water: Yes • Cell Service: Limited • Pets: Allowed in the campground on a leash (not permitted on the trails) • Roads: Paved access roads • Best Season: Fall through spring
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
• Developed RV campground available • Water and electric hookup sites • Easy paved road access • Thousands of ancient petroglyphs • Beautiful desert mountain views • Incredible stargazing opportunities • Close to White Sands National Park
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Alkali Flat Trail
Despite its name, the Alkali Flat Trail is anything but flat. As you traverse the unique loop trail in White Sands National Park, you'll climb up and down dunes throughout the entire journey. However, it's worth the effort — all who visit the trail experience stunning views of the one-of-a-kind area. If you choose to visit during summer, you'll want to bring plenty of extra drinking water and sun protection since there is no shade whatsoever.
Length: 4.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Osha Trail
The Osha Trail is a loop trail found in Lincoln National Forest near the town of Cloudcroft, NM. The trail is densely forested and pleasantly shaded, unlike much of the region. Along the route, which sees regular usage from hikers and trail runners, you'll come across pretty wildflowers, local wildlife, and excellent views of the region's sand dunes. The best time to visit the Osha Trail is between May and November.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing & Boating
If you head east into the mountains near the town of Ruidoso, you'll find several lakes and creeks where you can cast your fishing line and do some boating as well. You can catch rainbow and brook trout at Bonito Creek, but it's asked that you practice catch-and-release fishing. At Grindstone Reservoir, both non-motorized boating and fishing are permitted, though boating is only allowed from April 1 to October 31. There are quite a few more small bodies of water to choose from. The Mescalero Reservation to the south offers its fair share as well.
Climbing
The area to the east of the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site features various places for climbing enthusiasts. You'll find several excellent destinations in the region offering bouldering and small crags. Some of the spots you may want to check out include Monjeau Peak, Capitan Gap, and the Alto Lake Boulders.
Wildlife Viewing
If you head south to White Sands National Park, you can observe some of the most unique wildlife in the world. Because of the harsh, arid environment of the region, only certain species have any hope of surviving there. During your visit, you might see fascinating amphibians, such as Great Plains toads, Mexican spadefoot toads, or Rio Grande leopard frogs. The park is inhabited by many reptiles as well, like desert box turtles, bleached earless lizards, and prairie rattlesnakes. While adventuring in the dunes, you might spot a few incredible mammals. Kit foxes, coyotes, bobcats, porcupines, and American badgers are all known inhabitants of the area.
Picnicking
If you plan to bring some tasty food with you to enjoy a picnic, you can do so at the designated picnic area found on-site at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. There's also a visitor shelter where you can eat while escaping the sun's harshness on a hot day.
Petroglyph Viewing
The Three Rivers Petroglyph site is primarily known for its massive collection of prehistoric art. The area features over 21,000 petroglyphs, including masks, wildlife, sunbursts, geometric designs, and handprints. You can view all of the fascinating rock art along a rugged half-mile trail that starts near the visitor shelter. If you head in the opposite direction, you can also explore the site's partially excavated prehistoric village.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
BLM RV camping is a popular activity at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. At the site, you'll find five shelter sites, one group site, and two RV sites with covered picnic areas and water and electric hookups. Camping is only $7 per night, and RV hookups are $18. No other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are located in the area, but visitors have opportunities for dispersed camping nearby.
Developed Campgrounds
At Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, there is a BLM campground that accommodates RVs. You'll have access to potable water, picnic tables, restrooms, fire rings, and two sites with water and electrical hookups. This campground is just steps away from the petroglyph trail, making it easy to explore the area's remarkable cultural history. These sites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, but the group site can be reserved in advance.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping isn't allowed within the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site area because it's a protected archaeological site. RV travelers who want a more primitive camping experience can find dispersed camping opportunities on many nearby BLM-managed public lands. Those who want to stay at the petroglyph site should use the developed campground and follow all posted regulations.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
One of the most RV-friendly BLM destinations in the state of New Mexico, Three Rivers Petroglyph Site has a developed campground with paved access roads and convenient amenities. The campground has picnic areas, potable water, restrooms, and two RV sites with electric and water hookups. Most RVs can easily access the campground. While hookups are limited, the campground can accommodate RVs of nearly every size. • Camper Vans: Camper vans are a great choice for easy access to all the campground facilities and the petroglyph trail. • Travel Trailers: Travel trailers are best suited for the developed campground, especially self-contained units. • Fifth Wheels: Fifth wheels are suitable for most campground sites with careful trip planning ahead of time. • Class A Motorhomes: Class A motorhomes are a good option because there's easy access to the campground. • Class B Motorhomes: Class B motorhomes are one of the best RV choices for exploring both the campground and nearby attractions. • Class C Motorhomes: Class C motorhomes are best suited for the campground and those looking for an extended stay while exploring the area.
Free Camping 
For some Bureau of Land Management free camping, you'll likely need to travel away from the petroglyphs area and into the forested mountains to the northeast. There, you can look for a nice stretch of durable land where you can enjoy a primitive camping experience in a quiet setting.
RV Rentals Near Three Rivers Petroglyph Site Plan your next adventure
Planning your Three Rivers Petroglyph Site BLM trip
Although the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is open year-round, the hours vary depending on the season. Between April and October, the site is open from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. From October until April, the hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. At all times of the year, anyone who isn't camping at the site must depart by 10 p.m. There are restrooms and drinking water available at the BLM site, and you are allowed to bring your pets! Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
What RV Travelers Should Know Before Arriving
Three Rivers Petroglyph Site has a developed campground with many amenities, including potable water and restrooms. Individual campers are generally accepted on a first-come, first-served basis while groups can make reservations. Cell service is limited, so downloading maps before arriving is recommended. The site is accessed via paved roads, making it easy for RVs of all sizes to reach. Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, so bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and plan your outdoor activities during the cooler morning and evening hours.
Leave No Trace 
During your visit to the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, your goal should be for the land to look exactly the same when you leave as it did when you arrived. That means cleaning up your trash and disposing of it properly. It also means not taking or disturbing anything you find that belongs in nature. Additionally, please don't approach any local wildlife and provide your fellow site guests with respect and courtesy. The BLM needs your help to keep the site open to the public for many years to come.
Three Rivers Petroglyph Site Location
To reach the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site from Carrizozo, NM, merge onto US-54 W and follow it for about 26.6 miles. Turn left when you get to 3 Rivers Rd and continue for approximately 4.5 miles. This will take you right to the day-use area and campground.
Ready to visit Three Rivers Petroglyph Site? 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.
Plan Your Day at Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
• Morning: A great way to start your day is by taking a self-guided tour along the petroglyph trail while the temperatures are cooler. Take in the views of thousands of ancient carvings and enjoy the panoramic views of the Sierra Blanca and the Tularosa Basin. • Afternoon: In the afternoon, it's best to return to your campground for lunch and explore the visitor area. You can photograph additional petroglyph panels or take a scenic drive through the surrounding desert landscape. • Evening: In the evening, you can take advantage of the area's low-light pollution for excellent stargazing and watch the sunset over the mountains.
Nearby Attractions
• White Sands National Park (30 minutes): One of the world's most unique national parks, White Sands features miles of brilliant white gypsum dunes perfect for hiking, sledding, photography and scenic drives. Sunrise and sunset are especially popular times to visit. • Valley of Fires Recreation Area (35 minutes): This fascinating recreation area showcases a 5,000-year-old lava flow stretching across the desert landscape. Visitors can walk elevated boardwalks, enjoy scenic overlooks and learn about the region's volcanic history. • Lincoln National Forest (45 minutes): Escape the desert heat by exploring cool mountain forests filled with hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife viewing and picnic areas. The forest offers a dramatic contrast to the surrounding basin. • Ruidoso (1 hour): This charming mountain town offers shopping, restaurants, casinos, golf courses and outdoor recreation throughout the year. It's also a popular base for hiking and seasonal events. • White Sands Missile Range Museum (35 minutes): Explore exhibits covering the history of missile testing, space exploration and military technology. The museum features outdoor displays of historic rockets and missiles and is free to visit during public access hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp overnight at Three Rivers Petroglyph Site? Yes, you can stay overnight at Three Rivers Petroglyph Site thanks to the developed BLM campground in the area. The campground includes potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and two RV sites with water and electrical hookups. The sites accommodate RVs of many different sizes. Are pets allowed at Three Rivers Petroglyph Site? Yes, pets are allowed within the campground area as long as they're kept on a leash and under the owner's control. Pets are not permitted on the petroglyph trail in order to help protect the site's important cultural resources. It's best to clean up after your pet and never leave it unattended while visiting. How long does it take to explore the petroglyph trail? Many visitors spend one to two hours exploring the self-guided petroglyph trail. The trail has thousands of ancient rock carvings spread across the gently sloping hillside. Be sure to bring water, sun protection and comfortable walking shoes to make the most of your experience. Is Three Rivers Petroglyph Site suitable for large RVs? Yes, the campground is accessible via paved roads. This makes it suitable for most RV types, including larger fifth wheels and motorhomes. Because there are only two RV sites with water and electric hookups, it's best to arrive with a self-contained RV. When is the best time to visit Three Rivers Petroglyph Site? Fall through spring offers the best temperatures for sightseeing, hiking and camping. Summer afternoons are very hot, making early mornings and evenings the best times to explore the petroglyphs. Winter generally provides pleasant daytime weather for outdoor recreation activities. What should I bring for my visit? Sunscreen, sturdy walking shoes, a camera and drinking water are all great items to bring while you're exploring the remarkable desert trails. Cell service is limited, so downloading your maps before you arrive is ideal. Because campsites are limited, it's best to pack everything you need in case you're unable to get a site with water and electric hookups.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
Whether you want a spacious motorhome, a family-friendly travel trailer or a compact camper van, they're all welcome at Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. Packing for the desert climate, preparing for a relaxing stay and taking in the scenic landscapes is all that's needed to have an enjoyable time. Plan your next trip to Three Rivers Petroglyph Site in New Mexico by choosing your ride from these RV rentals in Alamogordo.