Editor’s Note: As of May 2022, Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area is closed due to extreme fire danger in the area. While you can still learn about the area below, we will not be updating the information in this article at the present time. If you are searching for more New Mexico waterfalls, check out our list of several that are scattered around the state.
If you’ve ever driven on one of the desolate state routes west of Carlsbad, you know it feels like being in the middle of nowhere — and it is. But if you drive down State Route 137 for about an hour, you’ll encounter a peaceful oasis so pretty, you might think you’re hallucinating. But Sitting Bull Recreation Area is very real, and it’s very worth checking out.
Sitting Bull Recreation Area is a unique sanctuary in the middle of the desert.
ryan o / TripAdvisor It offers picnic pavilions, walking paths, natural pools, and one of New Mexico’s tallest waterfalls.
It may feel like it takes forever to reach Sitting Bull Recreation Area, but it doesn’t take long to spot the waterfall.
Honey H / TripAdvisor Sitting Bull Falls is pretty spectacular.
The waterfall cascades down about 180 feet into the pools below.
MickeyW1967 / TripAdvisor And although the water flow varies, it trickles down all year long.
From this beautiful recreation area, you’ll have 360-degree views of the desert.
Scully62 / TripAdvisor This is the perfect place to reconnect with nature.
Summers are obviously popular here, with many guests cooling off by swimming in the pools.
Genia M / TripAdvisor And honestly, we can’t imagine a more relaxing, enjoyable swim than this.
Spend your afternoon hiking, then relax and take in the beauty of Sitting Bull Falls.
Skiers4Ever / TripAdvisor It may require quite a trek to get here, but it’s worth making the pilgrimage.
Sitting Bull Recreation Area is open year-round from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Amy D / TripAdvisor The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle.
Have you ever enjoyed an up-close-and-personal look of Sitting Bull Falls? Add this desert oasis to your spring and summer bucket list. And if you’re as obsessed with these peaceful natural wonders as we are, check out this weekend itinerary that takes you to seven of New Mexico’s waterfalls.
ryan o / TripAdvisor
It offers picnic pavilions, walking paths, natural pools, and one of New Mexico’s tallest waterfalls.
Honey H / TripAdvisor
Sitting Bull Falls is pretty spectacular.
MickeyW1967 / TripAdvisor
And although the water flow varies, it trickles down all year long.
Scully62 / TripAdvisor
This is the perfect place to reconnect with nature.
Genia M / TripAdvisor
And honestly, we can’t imagine a more relaxing, enjoyable swim than this.
Skiers4Ever / TripAdvisor
It may require quite a trek to get here, but it’s worth making the pilgrimage.
Amy D / TripAdvisor
The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle.
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Address: Sitting Bull Recreation Area, New Mexico 88220, USA
