Doc Long Picnic Site

Area Status: Open

Doc Long Picnic Site is named for Dr. William Henry Long. He was one of three forest pathologists in the USA who conducted pioneering research of tree diseases.

"Doc" Long, worked in New Mexico from 1910 through the 1930's. He lived in a cabin on the site where the “furthest set” rustic log pavilion is now. Pavilions ‘A’ and ‘B’ were added later.

The original pavilion and picnic ground were constructed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, also known as the CCC. Their base camp was located a short distance down NM 536 and is now owned by the Boy Scouts of America.

Pavilions ‘A’ and ‘B’, which are replicas of the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps design, are accessible and can accommodate up to 30 people. They are equipped with multiple picnic tables and grills. The site also features a playing field area near the group shelters and interpretive displays toward the interior of the site.

The Civilian Conservation Corps has a rich history and lasting presence throughout the Sandia Mountains. In their honor, we ask that you take extra care to “Leave No Trace” when you visit.

No Camping Allowed
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.

At a Glance

Reservations:	$75 per day for groups of up to 50 people Requires a reservation fee for each Pavilion A & B. Go online to Recreation.gov for reservations or call 1.877.444.6777; TDD: 1.877.833.6777. Reservations can be made on the day of arrival or can be made up to 12 months in advance. Dispersed picnicking is permitted during summer and winter months.
Area Amenities:	Accessible, Picnic tables, Toilets, Parking
Fees:	Goup Use: $75 per day for groups of up to 50 people Non-group Use: Requires a $5 fee or a day-use pass. CASH OR CHECK ONLY at pay station. New Mexico Enchantment Pass Interagency Passes
Open Season:	Seasonally
Usage:	Medium-Heavy
Busiest Season:	Spring through Fall
Restrictions:	DOGS MUST BE LEASHED.
Water:	No
Restroom:	Vault Toilet (2)
Passes:	New Mexico Enchantment Pass Interagency Passes Need help deciding which pass is right for you?
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Facilities: Water and electricity, firewood/charcoal are not available at the site. Accessible vault toilets and bear proof trash receptacles are provided. Recreation: There is access to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails from Doc Long. Bill Spring Trail, Oso Corridor Trail, Faulty Trail and a short pathway leading to Sulphur and Cienega picnic sites are connected to Doc Long for easy access. Wildlife:The Sandia’s are home to mule deer, black bear and many other species of wildlife and birds, including the red-tailed hawk, predator of the playful Abert’s squirrel, who is a year-round resident of the Doc Long site. Natural Features: The picnic area is at an altitude of 7,360 feet. It is nestled in a dense forest of towering ponderosa pines and is surrounded by mountainous terrain.

General Information

Directions:

From Albuquerque drive east on I-40 to Exit 175, proceed north toward Cedar Crest, on State Highway 14 approximately 6 miles to Scenic Byway 536. Go just over a mile west on Scenic Byway 536 to the picnic area and look for signage on your left. Group sites are in the two covered areas adjacent to the road.

Please, Do Not Park in front of any gates. Gates must be accessible at all times.

(MVUM) Official Motor Vehicle Use Map - North

Sandia Mountain Trails

More About Bears

Living With Large Predators in New Mexico

About the Civilian Conservation Corps

Obtain firewood near your destination and burn it on-site: Don't Move Firewood