Capulin Spring Picnic Site
This is a day-use picnic site only; no overnight camping is permitted. The pavilion is open for reservations May 15 through October 15. Visitors must bring their own water as none is available on site.
Cannabis Possession Prohibited
Order 03-00-00-21-002 prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting a cannabis plant, any part of a cannabis plant, or any substance derived from a cannabis plant within the Southwestern Region National Forests in the State of New Mexico and the National Grasslands in the states of Texas and…
About
Capulin Spring Picnic Site is a well-loved day-use recreation area in the Sandia Mountains of Cibola National Forest at 8,740 feet elevation. The site accommodates up to 50 people and features a group picnic shelter that is a modern replica of a mid-1930s Civilian Conservation Corps design. Amenities include six accessible picnic tables, food prep and serving tables, two large pedestal charcoal grills, accessible vault toilets, and bear-proof trash receptacles. The paved picnic pad, pathways, and parking area provide full ADA accessibility. The year-round spring at Capulin is a highlight, drawing birds of all types during the dry season as they seek water. The area is particularly popular with birders and photographers. Nearby trails include the Capulin Peak Trail, a 0.6-mile hike to the summit with 150 feet of elevation gain, passing ruins of an old mining shack and pit. The Sandia Crest overlook is a short drive up Scenic Byway 536. Visitors must bring their own water, firewood, and charcoal as none are provided on site. There is no overnight camping at Capulin Spring. Parking passes are included with reservations and must be displayed or obtained at the Sandia Ranger Station.
Directions
From Albuquerque, drive east on I-40 to Exit 175. Proceed north toward Cedar Crest on State Road 14 for about 6 miles to State Road 536. Drive 8 miles up State Road 536 and look for signs on your right. Capulin is located about 2 miles past the Sandia Peak Ski Area.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $90 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (505) 281-3304 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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