About Pe�a Blanca Wilderness Study Area
The Peña Blanca Wilderness Study Area is located in the south-central portion of New Mexico on the eastern edge of Las Cruces. The Peña Blanca rock shelters are the site of the earliest known cultivated corn in the United States, a primitive variety with eight rows of kernels.Wilderness Study Areas (commonly known as WSAs) are places that have wilderness characteristics; that is a minimum size, naturalness, and outstanding opportunities for recreation which make them eligible for designation as wilderness.Per the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act which became law on March 12, 2019, this web page is currently being updated.
How to Get There
From Interstate 10, approximately 11 miles south of Las Cruces, take exit 151 and drive northeast on County Road B059 approximately 4.7 miles to the southwestern boundary of the WSA. From this point, the road forms the southern boundary of the WSA for approximately 2.1 miles.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Pe�a Blanca Wilderness Study Area
Heading to Pe�a Blanca Wilderness Study Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Pe�a Blanca Wilderness Study Area?
No central reservation system listed for Pe�a Blanca Wilderness Study Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/15124) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Pe�a Blanca Wilderness Study Area?
From Interstate 10, approximately 11 miles south of Las Cruces, take exit 151 and drive northeast on County Road B059 approximately 4.7 miles to the southwestern boundary of the WSA. From this point, the road forms the southern boundary of the WSA for approximately 2.1 miles.
How do I contact Pe�a Blanca Wilderness Study Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 575-525-4300 or email: BLM_NM_LCDO_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
