As you walk through the ancient ruins at Chaco Culture National Historical Park, take a moment to imagine the scene as it was more than 1,000 years ago — a big, bustling city that was home to thousands of ancestral Pueblo people. The remains of the tall stone walls still stand underneath the towering rock cliffs, giving a hint at the impressive engineering feats of these pre-Columbian people. This region was the center of the Chacoan universe, with ancient roads leading to other parts of the Southwest. Step back in time as you hike through stone buildings, examine rock art, and enjoy the views of the unchanged New Mexico desert landscape.
RV camping is the perfect way to visit Chaco Culture National Historical Park; in an RV, you can rest easy and enjoy shelter from the weather extremes of the high desert. If you don't own an RV, consider renting one through RVshare.
Start your visit to Chaco Culture National Historical Park in the visitor center, where you'll get a sense of the scope and scale of the ancient Chacoan civilization. Hiking is the best way to explore; as you hike, it's easy to get a sense of the impressive construction techniques and take in fantastic views of the New Mexico high desert. During hot or inclement weather, the park road offers a beautiful scenic drive with pullouts overlooking key sites.
Hiking TrailsExamine a great house on the Una Vida Trail, which runs through the desert near the visitor center. As you hike, you can see Fajada Butte in the distance; the trail also passes by a set of petroglyphs. Most of the trail is easy, but some portions feature sharp inclines and loose rocks.
Visitor Center
1 Mile Round Trip
Moderate
The Hungo Pavi Trail offers the chance to see what an ancient building looks like before it's been excavated or restored. Here, the elements have taken their toll, taking down the roof and filling rooms with sand. As you walk around the remains of standing walls, it's easy to imagine you're the first person to see the signs of an ancient culture. The trail is short but fascinating, taking you to the top of the walls, into the plaza, and past the great kiva. While you're there, look up at the cliffs above the house — you can still see the great stone staircase carved into the rock. Make sure to pick up a brochure in the visitor center to see how the structure looked in its heyday.
Hungo Pavi Parking Area
0.25 Mile Round Trip
Easy
The Pueblo Alto Trail takes you on a tour of the ancient Chacoan buildings in approximately four hours. As you hike, you'll see fantastic views of Pueblo Bonito and the San Juan Basin. Walk through Pueblo Alto and New Alto, and check out the fascinating staircases carved into the stone walls more than 1,000 years ago.
Pueblo del Arroyo Parking Area
5.4 Miles Round Trip
Moderate
SightseeingPueblo Bonito is the most important site in Chaco Culture National Historical Park. This enormous great house was the center of life for the Chacoan ancestral Pueblo people. The complex is large, giving you the chance to see multi-story walls, numerous rooms, and a wide range of innovative construction techniques.
Pueblo Bonito Parking Area
Between Pueblo Bonito and Chetro Ketl, a short path runs along the cliffs. Here, you can see an exceptional collection of petroglyphs. Ancient people carved a variety of figures into the rock, including birds, animals, people, and a possible supernatural being. Many of the figures are visible with the naked eye, but binoculars can help you appreciate the details.
Pueblo Bonito or Chetro Ketl Parking Areas
If you want to drive, the best way to see Chaco Culture National Historical Park is Canyon Loop Drive. Running for 9 miles through the heart of the Chacoan civilization, this road takes you past the most important sites in the region. The route is paved and open to bikes. Make sure to stop at the different overlooks to take in the views of Fajada Butte, Pueblo Bonito, and more.
Visitor Center
MuseumsThe Farmington Museum provides an introduction to the many cultures and peoples who have made their home in New Mexico and the surrounding areas. Check out a variety of permanent and traveling exhibits that feature clothing, art, historical photos, and more.
3041 E Main St, Farmington, NM 87402
If you're camping with little ones, an afternoon at the E3 Children's Museum and Science Center is a fun and educational stop. This museum focuses on hands-on activities, so your children can discover different scientific concepts in an exciting and engaging environment. Different rooms cater to varying age groups, ensuring that there's something for kids of all ages.
302 N Orchard Ave, Farmington, NM 87401
Learn more about the fascinating cultures of New Mexico at the Aztec Museum and Pioneer Village. Using a series of buildings and interactive exhibits, it provides an immersive look at the lives of Native Americans and pioneers throughout the centuries. Fun for kids and adults, this spot includes a train car, a one-room schoolhouse, and more.
125 N Main Ave, Aztec, NM 87410
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsLocated about 25 miles (a 40-minute drive) from Chaco Culture National Historical Park, the Sinclair station is one of the most convenient spots to fill your tank and pick up last-minute snacks and drinks.
11260 US HWY 550, Nageezi, NM 87037
If you're entering the park from the south, Bashas' Diné is the last grocery store you'll find along the way. It offers all of the supplies you need for an RV camping trip, so it's the ideal spot to stock up.
HWY 57 &, Indian Service Rd #9, Crownpoint, NM 87313
With its ever-changing selection of home decor, artwork, and gifts, Dusty Attic is a fun place to browse. Shop for a souvenir from your trip or select a one-of-a-kind work of art from a local creator.
111 W Main St, Farmington, NM 87401
Located in the tiny community of Crownpoint, Grandma's Restaurant is one of the closest restaurants to Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Stop in for a classic egg breakfast, or come to dinner for a burrito with a side of fry bread.
HWY 57 &, Indian Service Rd #9, Crownpoint, NM 87313
Grab a pizza or a burger-and-fries basket at Victoria's Pizza, a casual spot with quick food. Leave room for dessert — you won't want to miss the delicious banana splits.
Spurlock and Eagle Drive, Crownpoint, NM 87313
Get your fill of burritos, margaritas, and more at Si Señor Restaurant. Located north of Chaco Culture National Historical Park, it offers delicious food in a colorful environment.
4015 E 30th St, Farmington, NM 87402
When you're coming to Chaco Culture National Historical Park from Albuquerque or other locations in the south, the fastest RV route is to take I-40 to Grants and turn north on NM-509. When you hit NM-57, head north until you reach the park entrance.
If you're coming from the north, hop on Highway 64, and turn south on US-550 just east of Farmington. At Nageezi, head south on Road 7900 to get to the park.
1808 CR 7950, Nageezi, NM 87037
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Vehicle) $25.0
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Motorcycle) $20.0
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person) $15.0
Entry fee is $15 per person on foot, on bike, or as part of a non-commercial group.
The Chaco Culture National Historical Park is an exciting place to discover the rich history of North America and learn about the sophisticated culture of the ancestral Pueblo people. Whether you're coming to hike and bike or enjoy the views from your car, an RV is an excellent way to camp near the park and enjoy the stunning New Mexican scenery.
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