Spring Canyon Recreation Area - Image 1
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Spring Canyon Recreation Area

4.8
·12 reviews·Deming, United States

A scenic gem offering breathtaking views, rewarding hikes, and peaceful picnic spots amidst the natural beauty of New Mexico.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant temperatures for hiking

CrowdLow
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Spring Canyon Recreation Area - Image 1

Spring Canyon Recreation Area

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant temperatures for hiking

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic gem offering breathtaking views, rewarding hikes, and peaceful picnic spots amidst the natural beauty of New Mexico.

4.8
(12 reviews)

"Amazing super cool place to be! Would love to come back and Hike the other trails sometime!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Conquer the Steep Grade

The 17% grade road is no joke! Ensure your vehicle is up for it. :car:

💧 Pack It In, Pack It Out

No water or trash service. Bring all your essentials and take your trash with you. :wastebasket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lover's Leap Trail

Lover's Leap Trail

Hiking Trail

A rewarding hike with stunning views, though some wish it were longer. Perfect for a moderate outdoor adventure.

Reddit
Picnic with a View

Picnic with a View

Picnic Areas

Every picnic table boasts an incredible vista. Ideal for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature's beauty.

Reddit
Abandoned Campground Exploration

Abandoned Campground Exploration

Upper Hiking Area

Discover remnants of a past camping loop, now returning to nature. A unique glimpse into the area's history.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Scenic Drive

Be prepared for a steep 17% grade on the road to Spring Canyon. While scenic, it can be challenging for some vehicles. Consider your car's capabilities before heading up. Reddit

Pack for a Pristine Experience

This area offers vault toilets but no water or trash service. Pack in everything you need, including water and trash bags, to keep this beautiful spot clean. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Cooler weather, beautiful colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Planning a road trip to South New Mexico, advice/ideas on where to go?

🚗 Conquer the Steep Grade

The 17% grade road is no joke! Ensure your vehicle is up for it. Reddit :car:

💧 Pack It In, Pack It Out

No water or trash service. Bring all your essentials and take your trash with you. Reddit :wastebasket:

reddit.com

Places to camp between Las Vegas and White Sands and/or Carlsbad in May?

reddit.com

My overnight trip to the City of Rocks

🥾 Trail Variety

Hike Lover's Leap for a challenge or explore the abandoned campground loop. Reddit :hiking_boot:

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spots

Enjoy meals at tables with concrete pads and ramadas, all with amazing views. Reddit :picnic_table:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Conquer the Steep Grade

The 17% grade road is no joke! Ensure your vehicle is up for it. Reddit :car:

💧 Pack It In, Pack It Out

No water or trash service. Bring all your essentials and take your trash with you. Reddit :wastebasket:

🥾 Trail Variety

Hike Lover's Leap for a challenge or explore the abandoned campground loop. Reddit :hiking_boot:

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spots

Enjoy meals at tables with concrete pads and ramadas, all with amazing views. Reddit :picnic_table:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Spring Canyon Recreation Area for its beautiful picnic spots with incredible views and its rewarding hiking trails, particularly the Lover's Leap Trail. The unique experience of exploring the abandoned campground also garners positive mentions. However, the steep 17% grade of the access road and the lack of water and trash services are noted drawbacks that require preparation.

"Amazing super cool place to be! I hiked The lover's leap trail. If it had been longer I would rate it tougher. Would love to come back and Hike the other trails sometime!"

Craig Johnson (thenaturalmedic)

"Great place to picnic. Every table has a view. Pit toilets. Two nice hiking trails—one challenging."

John Crankshaw

"Great place to hike or picnic"

Mary Burkholder

What People Like

Amazing picnic views
Rewarding hiking trails
Unique abandoned campground

What People Dislike

Steep access road
No water service
No trash service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The primary access is via a road with a significant 17% grade, which can be challenging for some vehicles. It's recommended to ensure your car is capable of handling steep inclines. Reddit

While the road is scenic, its steep 17% grade is a notable feature. It's advisable to check current road conditions before your visit. Reddit

Expect a steep 17% grade on the road leading to the recreation area. This requires careful driving and a vehicle in good condition. Reddit

While specific seasonal closures aren't mentioned, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or park services for any temporary access restrictions, especially during winter months. Reddit

Yes, Spring Canyon Recreation Area is noted as being part of Rockhound State Park. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding specific entrance fees is not detailed in the provided reviews. However, as it's part of Rockhound State Park, it's likely there are associated fees or it's included with state park admission. Reddit

Specific operating hours are not mentioned in the reviews. It's best to assume standard daylight access unless otherwise posted or confirmed with Rockhound State Park. Reddit

While the reviews mention camping loops, they also note an abandoned one. For current camping availability and booking, it's recommended to contact Rockhound State Park directly. Reddit

The main restriction noted is the challenging 17% grade road, which might limit access for certain vehicles. Reddit

Upon arrival, you'll find vault toilets and designated picnic sites with concrete pads, ramadas, and tables. There is no water service. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Lover's Leap Trail is a popular choice, offering great views. Another trail leads up to an abandoned camping loop, providing a glimpse into the past. Reddit

Absolutely! Every picnic table is situated with a fantastic view, making it an ideal spot for a meal outdoors. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, as a natural recreation area, you might encounter local desert wildlife. Always observe from a distance and do not feed animals. Reddit

There are mentions of camping loops, including an abandoned one. For current camping information and facilities, it's best to check with Rockhound State Park. Reddit

Each picnic site is equipped with a concrete pad, a ramada for shade, and a table. There are also vault toilets available in the area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The panoramic views from the hiking trails and picnic areas are stunning. Capture the vast desert landscapes and the remnants of the abandoned campground for unique shots. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for desert landscapes. Golden hour can be particularly magical. Reddit

The vistas from the Lover's Leap Trail and the various picnic spots are highly recommended for capturing the expansive beauty of the area. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping landscapes. Consider a telephoto lens for any wildlife you might spot. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. Reddit

Yes, the abandoned campground offers a unique and somewhat melancholic photographic subject, showcasing nature reclaiming man-made structures. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Spring Canyon offers a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors. The picnic areas with tables and ramadas provide a comfortable base for meals and relaxation, with every spot offering a great view. Kids can enjoy exploring the trails, especially the shorter, less strenuous ones, and the novelty of the abandoned campground can spark their imagination. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of water, as there are no water facilities. Also, bring trash bags to ensure you leave the area as clean as you found it. The scenic drive up can be an adventure in itself, but ensure your vehicle is equipped for the steep 17% grade. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

For those on a road trip through southern New Mexico, Spring Canyon Recreation Area is a worthwhile stop. Its unique landscape and recreational opportunities make it a great place for a day visit. The stunning views from the picnic sites and hiking trails offer a refreshing break from driving. Reddit

Be mindful of the challenging access road with its 17% grade. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for this steep ascent. Since there are no water or trash services, pack all your essentials and be ready to 'pack it in, pack it out' to preserve the area's natural beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Adventures at Spring Canyon

Spring Canyon Recreation Area offers a couple of distinct hiking experiences. The Lover's Leap Trail is frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing rewarding views for those who traverse it. While some visitors found it to be a moderate challenge, others wished for a longer trek, suggesting it's a great option for a less strenuous outing. Reddit

For those interested in a more unique exploration, the trail leading to an abandoned camping loop offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. This area, with its remnants of fire rings, concrete picnic tables, and level tent pads, is slowly being reclaimed by nature. It serves as a poignant reminder of the area's history and the forces of time. Reddit

When planning your hike, remember to wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water, and be mindful of the desert terrain. The trails are best enjoyed during the cooler parts of the day, especially in the warmer months. Reddit

Picnicking and Relaxation

Spring Canyon is an ideal destination for a leisurely picnic, with every table offering a spectacular view. These spots are equipped with concrete pads and ramadas, providing shade and a comfortable setting for your meal. It's a perfect place to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. Reddit

Visitors have noted the presence of pit toilets, but it's crucial to remember that there is no water service available. Therefore, it's essential to bring all the water you'll need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Similarly, pack out all your trash to help maintain the pristine condition of this beautiful recreation area. Reddit

The combination of stunning scenery and well-appointed picnic sites makes Spring Canyon a top choice for a day trip focused on relaxation and enjoying the outdoors. Reddit

Understanding the Access Road

A significant aspect of visiting Spring Canyon Recreation Area is the approach road. Reviews consistently highlight a challenging 17% grade, which requires careful consideration for drivers and their vehicles. This steep incline is a notable feature and could pose difficulties for those with less capable cars or those unfamiliar with such gradients. Reddit

It's important to assess your vehicle's performance and your comfort level with steep ascents and descents before embarking on this drive. While the road offers scenic rewards, being prepared for its demanding nature is key to a smooth and safe arrival. Reddit

This unique access road contributes to the area's somewhat secluded feel, making the journey part of the adventure. Planning your route and ensuring your vehicle is in good condition will enhance your overall experience. Reddit

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