CAPULIN SPRING PICNIC SITE
Sandia Park, New Mexico · USDA Forest Service

Photo: Recreation.gov
About
Capulin Spring is a well-loved recreation spot. It accommodates fifty people. This picnic site is surrounded by heavily wooded land that affords shade to escape the heat of the day. The spring at Capulin Spring runs year-round and is a much visited spot by birders, especially in the dry season because thirsty birds flock to this area for a nice, cool drink of water. Look for the big log and you will find beautiful birds of all types, sizes and colors. Remember to bring your camera. The sheltered area is a replica of a mid-1930s Civilian Conservation Corps design. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) has a rich history and lasting presence throughout the Sandia's. In their honor, we ask that you take extra care to "leave no trace" when you visit. Please be aware that there is no overnight camping at Capulin Spring. The reservation site can accommodate up to 50 people. Capulin Picnic Site includes a group picnic shelter, that is a modern day version of the Civilian Conservation Corps design found in most all of our picnic areas, six accessible picnic tables, food prep/serving tables and two large pedestal charcoal grills. The picnic pad, pathways and parking area are paved and accessible. **Water and Electricity, firewood /charcoal are not available at the site. Accessible vault toilets and bear proof trash receptacles are provided. PARKING: Each reservation comes with ten 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 areas, which do not require a reservation, are available on a first-come,first-served basis. Each area can accommodate a small family group and have no covering. Tables and grills are provided.Capulin Spring is located two miles above Sandia Peak Ski Area at an elevation of 8,740 feet. It has hills and is heavily wooded around the perimeter of the site. There is a year-round spring that runs through it. The Sandia's are home to mule deer, black bear, mountain lions and many other species of wildlife and birds, including golden eagles often seen soaring overhead.It is a short trip to the Sandia Crest. Take a right out of the Capulin parking lot and continue up Scenic Byway 536 to the top, for a magnificent view of Albuquerque and surrounding areas from the Sandia Crest overlook. The Crest was voted "Best Place to Pop the Question" in 2010... and it still is! The Kiwanas Cabin was built by the CCC in the
Directions
From Albuquerque, drive east on I-40 to Exit 175. Proceed north toward Cedar Crest on State Road 14, about 6 miles to State Road 536. Drive 8 miles up State Road 536. Look for signs on your right. Capulin is located about 2 miles past the Sandia Peak Ski area.
Location
Map tiles © OpenStreetMap.
Details
- State
- New Mexico
- City / area
- Sandia Park
- Agency
- USDA Forest Service
- Parent area
- Cibola National Forest and Grasslands
- Campsites
- 1
- Reservable
- Yes
- Typical price
- $90 / day
- Rating
- 4.75 / 5 (4 reviews on Recreation.gov)
- Equipment
- See Recreation.gov
Nearby campgrounds
- NINE MILE PICNIC SITE 0.7 km away
- BALSAM GLADE PICNIC SITE 0.9 km away
- LAS HUERTAS PICNIC SITE 2.0 km away
- DOC LONG PICNIC SITES - A and B 5.5 km away
- CIENEGA PICNIC SITE 6.0 km away
- Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin and Jay 21.3 km away