
Spring Canyon Recreation Area
A scenic gem offering breathtaking views, rewarding hikes, and peaceful picnic spots amidst the natural beauty of New Mexico.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking

Spring Canyon Recreation Area
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic gem offering breathtaking views, rewarding hikes, and peaceful picnic spots amidst the natural beauty of New Mexico.
"Amazing super cool place to be! Would love to come back and Hike the other trails sometime!"

🚗 Conquer the Steep Grade
The 17% grade road is no joke! Ensure your vehicle is up for it. :car:
💧 Pack It In, Pack It Out
No water or trash service. Bring all your essentials and take your trash with you. :wastebasket:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lover's Leap Trail
Hiking Trail
A rewarding hike with stunning views, though some wish it were longer. Perfect for a moderate outdoor adventure.

Picnic with a View
Picnic Areas
Every picnic table boasts an incredible vista. Ideal for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature's beauty.

Abandoned Campground Exploration
Upper Hiking Area
Discover remnants of a past camping loop, now returning to nature. A unique glimpse into the area's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Scenic Drive
Pack for a Pristine Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Planning a road trip to South New Mexico, advice/ideas on where to go?
🚗 Conquer the Steep Grade
The 17% grade road is no joke! Ensure your vehicle is up for it. :car:
💧 Pack It In, Pack It Out
No water or trash service. Bring all your essentials and take your trash with you. :wastebasket:
Places to camp between Las Vegas and White Sands and/or Carlsbad in May?
My overnight trip to the City of Rocks
🥾 Trail Variety
Hike Lover's Leap for a challenge or explore the abandoned campground loop. :hiking_boot:
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spots
Enjoy meals at tables with concrete pads and ramadas, all with amazing views. :picnic_table:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Conquer the Steep Grade
The 17% grade road is no joke! Ensure your vehicle is up for it. :car:
💧 Pack It In, Pack It Out
No water or trash service. Bring all your essentials and take your trash with you. :wastebasket:
🥾 Trail Variety
Hike Lover's Leap for a challenge or explore the abandoned campground loop. :hiking_boot:
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spots
Enjoy meals at tables with concrete pads and ramadas, all with amazing views. :picnic_table:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Spring Canyon Recreation Area for its beautiful picnic spots with incredible views and its rewarding hiking trails, particularly the Lover's Leap Trail. The unique experience of exploring the abandoned campground also garners positive mentions. However, the steep 17% grade of the access road and the lack of water and trash services are noted drawbacks that require preparation.
"Amazing super cool place to be! I hiked The lover's leap trail. If it had been longer I would rate it tougher. Would love to come back and Hike the other trails sometime!"
Craig Johnson (thenaturalmedic)
"Great place to picnic. Every table has a view. Pit toilets. Two nice hiking trails—one challenging."
John Crankshaw
"Great place to hike or picnic"
Mary Burkholder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary access is via a road with a significant 17% grade, which can be challenging for some vehicles. It's recommended to ensure your car is capable of handling steep inclines.
While the road is scenic, its steep 17% grade is a notable feature. It's advisable to check current road conditions before your visit.
Expect a steep 17% grade on the road leading to the recreation area. This requires careful driving and a vehicle in good condition.
While specific seasonal closures aren't mentioned, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or park services for any temporary access restrictions, especially during winter months.
Yes, Spring Canyon Recreation Area is noted as being part of Rockhound State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding specific entrance fees is not detailed in the provided reviews. However, as it's part of Rockhound State Park, it's likely there are associated fees or it's included with state park admission.
Specific operating hours are not mentioned in the reviews. It's best to assume standard daylight access unless otherwise posted or confirmed with Rockhound State Park.
While the reviews mention camping loops, they also note an abandoned one. For current camping availability and booking, it's recommended to contact Rockhound State Park directly.
The main restriction noted is the challenging 17% grade road, which might limit access for certain vehicles.
Upon arrival, you'll find vault toilets and designated picnic sites with concrete pads, ramadas, and tables. There is no water service.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Lover's Leap Trail is a popular choice, offering great views. Another trail leads up to an abandoned camping loop, providing a glimpse into the past.
Absolutely! Every picnic table is situated with a fantastic view, making it an ideal spot for a meal outdoors.
While not explicitly mentioned, as a natural recreation area, you might encounter local desert wildlife. Always observe from a distance and do not feed animals.
There are mentions of camping loops, including an abandoned one. For current camping information and facilities, it's best to check with Rockhound State Park.
Each picnic site is equipped with a concrete pad, a ramada for shade, and a table. There are also vault toilets available in the area.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the hiking trails and picnic areas are stunning. Capture the vast desert landscapes and the remnants of the abandoned campground for unique shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for desert landscapes. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
The vistas from the Lover's Leap Trail and the various picnic spots are highly recommended for capturing the expansive beauty of the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping landscapes. Consider a telephoto lens for any wildlife you might spot. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, the abandoned campground offers a unique and somewhat melancholic photographic subject, showcasing nature reclaiming man-made structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water, as there are no water facilities. Also, bring trash bags to ensure you leave the area as clean as you found it. The scenic drive up can be an adventure in itself, but ensure your vehicle is equipped for the steep 17% grade.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Be mindful of the challenging access road with its 17% grade. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for this steep ascent. Since there are no water or trash services, pack all your essentials and be ready to 'pack it in, pack it out' to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Adventures at Spring Canyon
For those interested in a more unique exploration, the trail leading to an abandoned camping loop offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. This area, with its remnants of fire rings, concrete picnic tables, and level tent pads, is slowly being reclaimed by nature. It serves as a poignant reminder of the area's history and the forces of time.
When planning your hike, remember to wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water, and be mindful of the desert terrain. The trails are best enjoyed during the cooler parts of the day, especially in the warmer months.
Picnicking and Relaxation
Visitors have noted the presence of pit toilets, but it's crucial to remember that there is no water service available. Therefore, it's essential to bring all the water you'll need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Similarly, pack out all your trash to help maintain the pristine condition of this beautiful recreation area.
The combination of stunning scenery and well-appointed picnic sites makes Spring Canyon a top choice for a day trip focused on relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.
Understanding the Access Road
It's important to assess your vehicle's performance and your comfort level with steep ascents and descents before embarking on this drive. While the road offers scenic rewards, being prepared for its demanding nature is key to a smooth and safe arrival.
This unique access road contributes to the area's somewhat secluded feel, making the journey part of the adventure. Planning your route and ensuring your vehicle is in good condition will enhance your overall experience.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit