New Mexico / Bernalillo County / Cibola National Forest

Doc Long Picnic Sites - A And B

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from mid-May through mid-October. Reservations available via Recreation.gov during the operating season.

About

Doc Long Picnic Sites are named for Dr. William Henry Long, one of three pioneering forest pathologists in the United States who conducted research on tree diseases in New Mexico from 1910 through the 1930s. The site sits at an elevation of 7,360 feet and is nestled in a dense forest of towering ponderosa pines in the Sandia Mountains. Two reservable group picnic shelters (Pavilions A and B) are available, each accommodating up to 30 people and equipped with multiple picnic tables. These accessible shelters are replicas of the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps design. The original pavilion and picnic ground were constructed in 1935 by the CCC, whose base camp was located nearby. The site also features a playfield area adjacent to the shelters, interpretive displays, and a visitor information hut staffed by volunteers on weekends during the operating season. The picnic area provides excellent access to multiple trails including Bill Spring Trail, Oso Corridor Trail, and Faulty Trail, with connections to nearby Sulphur and Cienega picnic sites. The surrounding Sandia Mountains are home to mule deer, black bear, red-tailed hawks, and the playful Abert's squirrel. The site offers scenic mountain views perfect for photography, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation. Additional dispersed picnic areas are available first-come, first-served for smaller family groups. No overnight camping is allowed at Doc Long.

Directions

From Albuquerque drive east on I-40 to Exit 175, proceed north toward Cedar Crest on State Highway 14 approximately 6 miles to Scenic Byway 536. Go just over a mile west on Scenic Byway 536 to the picnic site and look for signage on your left. Group sites are in the two covered areas adjacent to the road.

Nearby Campgrounds