Tierra Amarilla, NM
Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River
Remote river canyon with paddling, fishing, and backcountry access near Tierra Amarilla.
The Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River is a designated stretch of New Mexico's Rio Chama, a major tributary of the Río Grande flowing through dramatic sandstone canyon country near Tierra Amarilla. This remote northern New Mexico river corridor draws backcountry paddlers, anglers, and hikers seeking solitude among towering cliffs and pristine wilderness.
Access points and overnight options include Riana Campground on Abiquiu Lake for base camping and the Rio Chama River itself for multi-day river trips through the designated Wild and Scenic reach.
The river corridor is co-managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service, flowing through protected wilderness study areas with no permit required to visit. Its remote canyon setting and rugged terrain make this a destination for experienced recreationists comfortable with self-sufficient backcountry travel.
Experiences
Rivers
Explore 1 rivers location in Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River.
Experiences
Camping
Explore 1 camping location in Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River.
Common Questions
What visitors most often want to know about Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River.
Do I need a permit to visit Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River?
No permit is required to visit Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River. The area is open to the public for recreation.
What river activities are available at Rio Chama?
The Rio Chama River offers fishing and boating opportunities. The 24.6-mile Wild and Scenic section flows through dramatic canyon terrain managed by the BLM and U.S. Forest Service.
Where can I camp near Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River?
Riana Campground is located on Abiquiu Lake near Rio Chama. This is the primary camping option in the immediate area.
What landscape will I see on Rio Chama?
The Rio Chama flows through a multi-colored sandstone canyon with walls that reach up to 1,500 feet above the river downstream. You'll encounter towering cliffs, heavily wooded side canyons, and historical sites throughout the Wild and Scenic section.
Who manages Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River?
Rio Chama is co-managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). The designated Wild and Scenic section flows through the Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area and the Chama River Canyon Wilderness.