Can you reserve a site at Las Huertas Picnic Site?

Yes, Las Huertas Picnic Site is reservable through Recreation.gov.

Las Huertas Picnic Site, New Mexico — 1 site, fees and cancellation alerts

Overview

Las Huertas was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It is located at the northeast end of the Sandia Ranger District. It is, understandably, a favorite place for many. Las Huertas Creek meanders year round through this recreation site. Pathways and foot bridges lead over the water and through the trees to dispersed picnic tables and grills that are tucked away in the woods. The group site pavilion is a replica of the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps design.

Las Huertas was a side camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps from 1933 to 1941. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) has a rich history and lasting presence throughout the Sandias. In their honor, we ask that you take extra care to leave no trace when you visit. Please note that overnight camping is not allowed.

Recreation

Picnicking and bird watching are favorite pastimes at this site. Several trails loop the picnic area.

Facilities

Drinkable water and electricity, firewood /charcoal are not available at the site. Accessible vault toilets and bear proof trash receptacles are provided.

The accessible picnic site has a covered shelter that can accommodate up to 30 people. It is equipped with multiple picnic tables and grills. Accessible vault toilets are provided.

PARKING: Each reservation comes with ten (10) day use parking passes which should be picked up before hand, at the Sandia Ranger Station, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., (505)281-3304.

Additional dispersed picnic sites, which do not require a reservation, are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site can accommodate a small family group and have no covering. Tables and grills provided.

Natural Features

The site is located on the east side of the Sandia Mountains, at an elevation of 7,600 feet. Las Huertas is adjacent to the only year-round stream in the range and can be heard throughout the picnic area. The water draws birds and other wildlife to the picnic grounds. Aspen and fir trees surround the area, providing shade from the sun. This is a great area to experience fall colors on the District.

Nearby Attractions

Sandia Man Cave is a short drive north. The parking lot for the cave is on the right or east side of the road. No fee is required. The town of Placitas is approximately 6-7 miles north and offers restaurants and a few gift stores. Bernalillo is not far away with hotels and other amenities.

The facts

1 bookable site
1 site for day use only
1 accessible site
Up to 30 people per site
Loops: LAS HUERTAS

Site types

1 Group Picnic Area

Book on Recreation.gov

1 campsite at Las Huertas Picnic Site

Check-in 11:00 AM · Check-out 10:00 PM

Accessible only

Site	Loop	Type	Entry	Surface	Max rig	People
001	LAS HUERTAS	Group Picnic Area	—	—	—	30	♿

Getting there

From Albuquerque, drive north on I-25 to Exit 242 Bernalillo/St Hwy 165, stay to your right as you exit the ramp. Proceed east on State Road 165 and go through Placitas. The road will curve to the south and lead you into the Sandia Mountain range. Las Huertas Picnic Site will be on your right. Remember to display your amenity/parking pass in the window of your vehicle.

35.23472, -106.41056 · 35°14'5.0"N 106°24'38.0"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 83°F in Jul, down to 43°F in Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
High °F	44	48	55	63	73	83	83	80	77	65	54	43
Low °F	19	22	26	34	41	49	53	52	46	36	24	18
Precip in	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 3 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Fees and stay limits

Contact recreation.gov or 877-444-6777

From Recreation.gov, which is not always current. The operator's own page is the authority on what you will be charged.

Common questions about Las Huertas Picnic Site

Can you reserve a site at Las Huertas Picnic Site?: Yes, Las Huertas Picnic Site is reservable through Recreation.gov.
How many campsites does Las Huertas Picnic Site have?: 1 site.

Camping near Las Huertas Picnic Site

Capulin Spring Picnic Site 1.3 mi · Campground · we watch it
Balsam Glade Picnic Site 1.5 mi · Campground · we watch it
Nine Mile Picnic Site 1.6 mi · Campground · we watch it
DOC LONG PICNIC SITES - A and B 4.3 mi · Campground · we watch it
Cienega Picnic Site 4.7 mi · Campground · we watch it
Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin and Jay 14.4 mi · Campground · we watch it
PINE FLAT PICNIC SITES - A and B 15.9 mi · Campground · we watch it
Oak Yucca and Locust Group Picnic Sites 17.1 mi · Campground · we watch it
Cochiti Campground 28.5 mi · Campground · we watch it
Enchantment Pass- Cibola NF & NG 12.4 mi · Activity pass
Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin and Jay 13.4 mi · Campground
Petroglyph Information Center 18.2 mi · Facility

Contact

Phone 505-281-3304
Book Recreation.gov

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Las Huertas Picnic Site