The Rio Chama WSA is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900 foot deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piсon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The
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 Official / Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.blm.gov ↗
- Contact 575-758-8851
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area — 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 kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Puerto Chiquito Spur Road. Check length and difficulty before you go.
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
Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
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.
