Camping at Bandelier National Monument

Introduction to Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument, located in northern New Mexico, preserves the homes and territories of the Ancestral Puebloans of a later era in the Southwest. Most of the pueblo structures date to two eras, dating between 1150 and 1600 AD.

Camping Information

1. Campgrounds Available Bandelier National Monument offers camping at Juniper Campground for families and Ponderosa Campground for larger groups. Backcountry camping is also available for those who wish to hike and camp in the more remote parts of the park.

2. Campground Reservations

• Juniper Campground: No reservations, sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Ponderosa Campground: Requires reservations made in advance through Recreation.gov.
• Backcountry Camping: Free permits must be obtained at the visitor center the day of or the day before your hike.

3. Facilities and Amenities

• Juniper Campground: Offers picnic tables, fire pits/grills, and restrooms with running water and flushing toilets.
• Ponderosa Campground: Provides similar amenities but is suited for larger groups such as scout troops or family reunions.
• Backcountry Camping: There are no facilities; campers must practice Leave No Trace principles.

4. Camping Fees

• Juniper Campground: There's a nightly fee per campsite, with additional fees for extra vehicles.
• Ponderosa Campground: Group site fees apply, varying based on the size of the group.
• Backcountry Camping: No fee, but a permit is required.

5. Campsite Restrictions

• Fire restrictions may be in place depending on the season and current conditions. Check the latest conditions prior to your visit.
• Park within designated areas and set up tents within marked sites to minimize impact on the environment.

6. Length of Stay

• Most campgrounds have limits on the number of consecutive nights you can stay, typically around 7 nights.

7. Wildlife and Safety

• Bears and other wildlife are common in the area. Store food properly and maintain a clean camp to deter animals.
• Be aware of altitude sickness if you are not accustomed to high elevations.

8. Hiking and Trails

• Bandelier has over 70 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes. You must stay on designated trails at all times.
• Day hikes do not require a permit, but backcountry hikes do.

9. Weather Conditions

• Expect variable weather; it can be hot in summer, cold in winter, and with sudden weather shifts during monsoon season.
• Always check weather forecasts and prepare for the unexpected.

Visitor Center and Education

10. Visitor Information

• The Visitor Center provides information, exhibits, a park film, and a bookstore.
• Check for ranger-led programs and educational walks or talks that might enhance your visit.

Additional Tips for Visitors

11. Pack It In, Pack It Out

• There are limited trash facilities, so be prepared to pack out all your waste.

12. Protect Cultural Resources

• Do not touch, climb on, or disturb any of the archaeological sites.

13. Pets

• Pets are only allowed in the campground and on certain trails while on a leash. They are not permitted in the backcountry or in most of the monument.

14. Connectivity

• Cell service can be unreliable in the area, so plan accordingly and let someone know your itinerary.

Bandelier National Monument offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans and enjoy the beauty of the New Mexican wilderness. Always make sure to plan ahead and follow all park regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping trip.