The Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail is an easy-to-moderate excursion on a 2 1/2 mile loop running up the river from the trailhead to the Petroglyph Rock where visitors of another time left images of their Water God. Easy river access to Bonito Creek and its towering cottonwood, walnut, and oak trees. Tr
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
This site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 575-627-0272
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you fish at Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — hiking is one of the listed activities at Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Bureau of Land Management / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Carrizozo Lava Flow Wilderness Study Area
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
