The Rio Chama, a major tributary of the Río Grande, flows through a multi-colored sandstone canyon whose walls increase to 1,500 feet above the river as you travel downstream. Co-managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), 24.6 miles of the river is Congressionally designated as a
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 575-758-8851 · blm_nm_tafo_admin@blm.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River?
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 Chama Wild and Scenic River. 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 Chama Wild and Scenic River.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
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
Bill L / CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Reclamation El Vado Reservoir
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
