National Forest
Aldo Leopold House
Abiquiu, New Mexico
Federal campground in New Mexico.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About NINE MILE PICNIC SITE
Federal campground in New Mexico.
Nine Mile Picnic Site offers a peaceful retreat into New Mexico's natural landscape, providing RV travelers with an authentic forest camping experience away from the hustle and bustle of developed campgrounds. Located within the national forest system, this destination appeals to those seeking solitude, natural beauty, and a genuine connection with the outdoors.
The setting at Nine Mile Picnic Site immerses visitors in the serene environment of a working national forest. The area is characterized by towering pines and mixed conifer forests that create a cool, shaded atmosphere perfect for escaping the heat of lower elevations. The forest canopy provides natural relief during warm days, while nights tend to be cool and refreshing, making it an ideal spot for RV camping during shoulder seasons and summer months.
This location is particularly appealing to travelers who appreciate hiking, nature photography, and wildlife observation. The surrounding national forest lands offer numerous opportunities to explore trails and discover the region's natural features. Visitors often report seeing various wildlife and enjoying the peaceful soundscape of the forest, which includes birdsong and rustling leaves rather than traffic noise.
The picnic site serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the broader New Mexico landscape. The state offers remarkable diversity, from high mountain peaks to desert vistas, and this location provides a good jumping-off point for day trips and explorations. Nearby areas within the national forest system provide additional recreation opportunities including fishing, scenic drives, and more extensive hiking trails.
Those who value a quieter camping experience with minimal development will find Nine Mile Picnic Site particularly appealing. It attracts visitors seeking a back-to-nature experience without sacrificing the comfort and convenience of RV camping. The consistently high rating from visitors reflects the quality and appeal of this destination. Families, couples, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts all find value in what this forest setting provides.
The setting at Nine Mile Picnic Site immerses visitors in the serene environment of a working national forest. The area is characterized by towering pines and mixed conifer forests that create a cool, shaded atmosphere perfect for escaping the heat of lower elevations. The forest canopy provides natural relief during warm days, while nights tend to be cool and refreshing, making it an ideal spot for RV camping during shoulder seasons and summer months.
This location is particularly appealing to travelers who appreciate hiking, nature photography, and wildlife observation. The surrounding national forest lands offer numerous opportunities to explore trails and discover the region's natural features. Visitors often report seeing various wildlife and enjoying the peaceful soundscape of the forest, which includes birdsong and rustling leaves rather than traffic noise.
The picnic site serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the broader New Mexico landscape. The state offers remarkable diversity, from high mountain peaks to desert vistas, and this location provides a good jumping-off point for day trips and explorations. Nearby areas within the national forest system provide additional recreation opportunities including fishing, scenic drives, and more extensive hiking trails.
Those who value a quieter camping experience with minimal development will find Nine Mile Picnic Site particularly appealing. It attracts visitors seeking a back-to-nature experience without sacrificing the comfort and convenience of RV camping. The consistently high rating from visitors reflects the quality and appeal of this destination. Families, couples, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts all find value in what this forest setting provides.
4.9
Rating
8
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Cedar Crest is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
New Mexico weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Cedar Crest.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Cedar Crest. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
NINE MILE PICNIC SITE Reviews
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Shanna Jarrett
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Shanna Jarrett
This is a beautifully renovated and updated picnic area! What a nice addition to the picnic choices closer to the Crest. The sites are nicely shaded and there are lovely aspens and lush foliage throughout. The vault toilets are new and there's plenty of parking. You can access the lower part of the Challenge Trail here as well. Signs for the runoff are obvious. Please pay the $5 fee, pick up your... This is a beautifully renovated and updated picnic area! What a nice addition to the picnic choices closer to the Crest. The sites are nicely shaded and there are lovely aspens and lush foliage throughout. The vault toilets are new and there's plenty of parking. You can access the lower part of the Challenge Trail here as well. Signs for the runoff are obvious. Please pay the $5 fee, pick up your trash and dog poop to help keep these areas nice for everyone!
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Joseph Monda
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Joseph Monda
Nine Mile Picnic Area reopened after a seven year hiatus, it's completely redone from top to bottom. The Cibola National Forest deserves credit for a job well done.I hiked the Challenge trail and had a picnic lunch here and it was delightful. It's exactly nine miles from Hwy 14 to the picnic grounds on hwy 536 the Sandia Crest Hwy. If you want to get out of the city for a few hours this is a near... Nine Mile Picnic Area reopened after a seven year hiatus, it's completely redone from top to bottom. The Cibola National Forest deserves credit for a job well done.I hiked the Challenge trail and had a picnic lunch here and it was delightful. It's exactly nine miles from Hwy 14 to the picnic grounds on hwy 536 the Sandia Crest Hwy. If you want to get out of the city for a few hours this is a nearby getaway for the people of Albuquerque.
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Jake C
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jake C
For some reason the gate has been closed for over a year now. Parked outside the gate and hiked in. Great place that needs a little TLC. The trailheads are clear and very easy to trek. The picnic/recreation area is great. The tables are all sturdy and the grills are nice and clean too. While the gates are locked, still a great place to have a nice quiet hike. • picnic tables • grills • restrooms For some reason the gate has been closed for over a year now. Parked outside the gate and hiked in. Great place that needs a little TLC. The trailheads are clear and very easy to trek. The picnic/recreation area is great. The tables are all sturdy and the grills are nice and clean too. While the gates are locked, still a great place to have a nice quiet hike. • picnic tables • grills • restrooms
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Michael McDonald
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Michael McDonald
The picture I posted is actually from the crest trail near the north crest. Nine Mile Picnic Area is a fine place to stop, park, find trails and etc. The real beauty is on the trails themselves.
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Xasha Evans
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Xasha Evans
It is finally open and ready for people!
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