DOC LONG PICNIC SITES - A and B
Cedar Crest, New Mexico · USDA Forest Service

Photo: Recreation.gov
About
Doc Long Picnic Sites are named for Dr. William Henry Long. He was one of three forest pathologists in the USA who conducted pioneering research of tree diseases. Two picnic areas are available for reservation at this site. Doc Long, worked in New Mexico from 1910 through the 1930s. Doc lived in a cabin on the site where the "furthest set", rustic log pavilion is now. 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 State Road 536 and is now owned by the Boy Scouts of America. Pavilions A and B were added later and are adjacent to the road next to the small playing field. 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. Please note that there is no overnight camping at Doc Long. There are privately owned businesses and restaurants all along NM State Road 14 and a museum on your way up the 536 Scenic Byway which extends 13.6 miles from the base of the Sandia's to the Sandia Crest. At the Sandia Crest there is parking, a gift store, snack bar and a lookout deck. There you can see panoramic views from any direction you look. Sunsets are spectacular. It was voted Best Place to "Pop the Question" in 2010. It is a popular path for motorcyclists and auto touring, with its winding road to the peak. The Peak area provides two launch pads for hang gliding, which is a popular sport during summer months.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. The site's playing field can accommodate outdoor activities that will make your picnic a memorable one for everyone. Help your kids explore the ecosystem, and its related plants and animals through our Junior Ranger program. For more information about the Junior Ranger program, call the Sandia Ranger Station at (505) 281-3304. The surrounding forest and the majestic mountains provide a beautiful location for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoor recreation. Bring your camera.Please note: You must make two separate bookings for site A and B if you want to reserve both. Please verify the site you have reserved when checking out. Please note: there are no grills available at D
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 site and look for signage on your left. Group sites are in the two covered areas adjacent to the road.
Location
Map tiles © OpenStreetMap.
Details
- State
- New Mexico
- City / area
- Cedar Crest
- Agency
- USDA Forest Service
- Parent area
- Cibola National Forest and Grasslands
- Campsites
- 2
- Reservable
- Yes
- Typical price
- $75 / day
- Rating
- 3.72 / 5 (18 reviews on Recreation.gov)
- Equipment
- See Recreation.gov
Nearby campgrounds
- CIENEGA PICNIC SITE 0.9 km away
- BALSAM GLADE PICNIC SITE 4.7 km away
- CAPULIN SPRING PICNIC SITE 5.5 km away
- NINE MILE PICNIC SITE 5.6 km away
- LAS HUERTAS PICNIC SITE 6.9 km away
- Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin and Jay 16.3 km away