The breathtaking Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument in New Mexico has reopened to the public after a four-year hiatus. For RVers who winter in the area, you’ll want to put this on your “To Do” list.
Nestled between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, this gem is known for its unique cone-shaped formations, scenic hiking trails and a deep connection to Indigenous heritage.
The closure, which began in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, extended as federal and tribal entities worked together to renegotiate management strategies. The result? A shared operational agreement between the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Cochiti Pueblo.
Under the new arrangement, the Pueblo oversees daily operations. It will collaborate with federal groups to integrate Indigenous knowledge into managing the monument.
What’s new?
Visitors now need to secure online reservations before entering the monument. This step, implemented for crowd control and preservation, also reflects the Cochiti Pueblo’s stewardship of the land.
What makes Kasha-Katuwe National Monument special?
The monument is a geological marvel. You’ll see spires of pumice and volcanic ash, some standing more than 90 feet tall.
Along with its natural wonders, the site holds cultural significance for the Cochiti Pueblo. The name Kasha-Katuwe translates to “white cliffs” in the original language.
Planning your visit
Located approximately 40 miles west of Santa Fe, Tent Rocks is an ideal day trip for adventurers and geology enthusiasts. The monument is open year-round. Reservations are a must in order to ensure a sustainable visitor experience.
Key activities include hiking the Cave Loop and Slot Canyon trails. The trails offer stunning views and a chance to explore the area’s unique terrain. Visitors are sure to enjoy the striking volcanic formations and will appreciate the area’s desert beauty.
A new era of collaboration
The reopening of Kasha-Katuwe National Monument highlights broader trends in the United States’ approach to public lands. Co-management with tribal nations works to foster a balance between accessibility and preservation. This partnership demonstrates respect for Indigenous traditions while ensuring the protection of cultural and natural resources.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, Tent Rocks promises an unforgettable journey into New Mexico’s natural and cultural heritage.
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Wow, a great place to explore and hike. Will make sure i visit again. Army corp campground close by
One of the only two COE campgrounds in the entire Southwest is located nearby. It has both dry and partial hookup, paved campsites, each with covered tables on a concrete pad, grills, and gravel tent pads. Restrooms have flush toilets and free hot showers, water is scattered around the cg. and a dump is near the entrance. The sites are on a terraced hillside overlooking the lake. We have stayed there multiple times and love it!
Forgot: the COE cg. is Cochiti Lake.
Excellent.
You are getting so many ads, that pop up on ‘top’ of the article(s), that you can’t read it. I’m trying to read this on a phone.
Cheers,
Mike
Use DuckDuckGo Mike!
Mike, we rely on advertising for most of our income because we do not charge a subscription (we only ask for voluntary donations). That said, there should not be as many ads as you have described. I hope other readers will comment in this thread about their reading experiences. — Chuck/publisher
I know I’m late to the party, but I’m reading this article on my phone and the ads are NOT that intrusive. And when one pops up, I just click the “X” and it closes it.
Thank you, Gail! I did not know this exists. Happy new year and safe travels! 🙂