Last updated: April 29, 2025
Thing to Do
Picnicking at Bandelier
NPS / Sally King
Parking Lot Island On the island in the middle of the parking lot this area is shaded and offers several picnic tables, trash cans, and a bear box storage unit.
Cottonwood Picnic AreaCottonwood Picnic Area is located just a short walk across Frijoles Creek from the visitor center in Frijoles Canyon. This area has parking spots with picnic tables. Self- contained stoves are permitted but no open campfires or barbeque grills.
Juniper CampgroundJuniper Campground is open to picnicking until 4:00 PM daily, after that a overnight camping fee will be charged. This area is located on the mesa and can be reached by turning right at the first road past the park entrance station. Picnickers should pick a spot not already occupied by campers. Fires are permitted in the grate provided. Each campground spot has a picnic table, barbeque grill, and a parking space.
Cottonwood Picnic AreaCottonwood Picnic Area is located just a short walk across Frijoles Creek from the visitor center in Frijoles Canyon. This area has parking spots with picnic tables. Self- contained stoves are permitted but no open campfires or barbeque grills.
Juniper CampgroundJuniper Campground is open to picnicking until 4:00 PM daily, after that a overnight camping fee will be charged. This area is located on the mesa and can be reached by turning right at the first road past the park entrance station. Picnickers should pick a spot not already occupied by campers. Fires are permitted in the grate provided. Each campground spot has a picnic table, barbeque grill, and a parking space.
Details
Duration
1-3 Hours
Activity
Picnicking
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets are allowed within the picnic areas on a 6-foot leash. Pets are not allowed on trails.
Activity Fee
Yes
Entrance fee applies
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility Information
Most picnicking areas at Bandelier are easy to access. The Cottonwood Picnic area and the Parking Lot Island are mostly paved and within walking distance from the Bandelier Visitor Center. Although pets are not allowed on the hiking trails, they are permitted in the picnic areas.