Established Camping
Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
Three Rivers Petroglyph Site, near Tularosa, New Mexico, is a unique campground that offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Located between the stunning White Sands and the Valley of the Fires, this spot is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the area while enjoying the great outdoors.
The campground features several sites equipped with picnic tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy meals outside. Visitors have noted the clean facilities, including well-maintained flush toilets, which add to the overall comfort of your stay. As one camper mentioned, “The bathrooms were clean and the hikes were very fun,” highlighting the enjoyable hiking opportunities nearby.
For those interested in exploring, the petroglyphs are a must-see, with over 20,000 carvings that tell the story of the Jornada Mogollon people. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the Sacramento Mountains, making it a fantastic backdrop for your camping experience. Many campers have remarked on the peaceful atmosphere, with one stating, “The views all around are astounding.”
While the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s a great spot for both tent and RV camping. Just be prepared for the occasional wind, as the area can get breezy. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is a fantastic place to connect with nature and history.
Description
Bureau of Land Management
Las Cruces District Office
The Three Rivers Petroglyphs are outstanding examples of prehistoric Jornada Mogollon rock art. The basaltic ridge rising above the Three Rivers Valley contains over 21,000 petroglyphs, including masks, sunbursts, wildlife, handprints, and geometric designs. The number and concentration of petroglyphs make this one of the largest and most interesting rock art sites in the Southwest. A rugged 0.5-mile trail begins at the visitor shelter and links many of the most interesting petroglyphs. Another short trail begins on the east side of the picnic area and leads to a partially excavated prehistoric village. The Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is one of the few locations in the Southwest set aside solely because of its rock art. It is also one of the few sites giving visitors such direct access to petroglyphs. The number and concentration of petroglyphs here make it one of the largest and most interesting petroglyphs sites in the Southwest. More than 21,000 glyphs of birds, humans, animals, fish, insects and plants, as well as numerous geometric and abstract designs are scattered over 50 acres of New Mexico's northern Chihuahuan Desert. The petroglyphs at Three Rivers, dating back to between about 900 and 1400 AD, were created by Jornada Mogollon people who used stone tools to remove the dark patina on the exterior of the rock. A small pueblo ruin is nearby and Sierra Blanca towers above to the east. A detailed petroglyph guide is available at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site.
Location
Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is located in New Mexico
Directions
The site is located 17 miles north of Tularosa, NM, and 28 miles south of Carrizozo, NM on U.S. 54. Turn east from U.S. 54 at Three Rivers onto County Road B30 and travel five miles on paved road, following signs.
Coordinates
33.34749023 N
106.01462575 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 43 min from Las Cruces
- 1 hr 50 min from El Paso
- 2 hrs 37 min from Albuquerque
- 3 hrs from Santa Fe
