Pine Flat Picnic Sites - A and B

PINE FLAT PICNIC SITES - A and B

Part of Cibola National Forest and Grasslands

Overview

Pine Flat picnic sites A & B are accessible picnic areas. They are located on State Highway 337 (James McGrane Memorial Highway or Old South 14) approximately 7 miles from I-40. State Hwy 337 runs parallel to Pine Flat picnic area making it easy to identify and enter. From the entry way to your left you will find two reserve only sites. The area is surrounded by pinon, juniper, scrub oak and ponderosa pine that lend shade to both reservation areas. Cool mountain breezes are common here. The sound of rustling foliage render Pine Flat picnic sites an excellent place to lean back, relax and maybe even take a nap. Each site can accommodate fifty people.



Pine Flat Trailhead has pull through trailer parking in addition to regular vehicle parking, which is located to the right as you enter the gate. Follow the road south to the trailhead that leads into the Manzanita Mountains Trail system.


You will also find dispersed picnic tables throughout the Pine Flat sites, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Pine Flat Sites A & B were built in 1956 by the Forest Service with the intent to provide picnic sites for large group use. Please take care of your public land by using Leave No Trace ethics. There is no overnight camping at this site.

Facilities

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.

As you enter the area, to the left you will find two reserve only sites, A and B. Both sites have grills, tables, vault toilets and bear proof trash containers.


The trailering area for horse and motorcycle trailers is located to the right as you enter the gate. Follow the road south to the trailhead that leads into the Manzanita Mountains Trail system.



Dispersed picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. They are located throughout the area along the east side of the Pine Flat site.


Water and electricity, firewood/charcoal are not available at the site. Accessible vault toilets and bear proof trash receptacles are provided. Bears frequent the area; More about Bears and Food.



Have questions? (505) 281-3304.

Natural Features

Pine Flat picnic ground is 7,240 feet in elevation. It is fairly flat which makes it easy to park a trailer and unload your OHVs or horses. Hikes in the surrounding area can vary in elevation by approximately 50-120 feet.

Recreation

Pine Flat connector trail leads to a multiuse motorized trail system. The trail system has loops and straightaways to satisfy just about any recreationist. For more information on OHV use, consult the District Motor Vehicle Use Map.

Nearby Attractions

The historic Cedro Cemetery and the town of Tijeras are about five miles from the picnic area.

Important Notices

  • 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.

  • It is recommended for visitors to make a reservation at least 48 hours in advance to give staff notice to prepare the site prior for your arrival. If reserved within 48 hours of arrival, site preparations will be subject to staffing availability.

  • To ensure an enjoyable stay for the next visitor, please make sure to place ALL trash in the trash cans provided and leave the site as clean as you found it.

  • Water and electricity, firewood/charcoal are not available at the site. You may notice water spigots at this site, however the water lines were retired in the mid 2000s due to difficulties with freezing pipes, therefore, bring your own water.

  • Please DO NOT park in front of any gates. They must be accessible at all times.

  • Accessible vault toilets and bear proof trash receptacles are provided. Please use appropriate containers for food and garbage. Food Storage Keeping You and Bears Safe More about Bears and Food
  • Have questions? Contact the Sandia Ranger District Monday - Friday from 8:00am to 4:30 pm at (505) 281-3304.

  • Obtain firewood near your destination and burn it on-site: Don't Move Fire Wood
  • Trail Map: Manzanita Mountains Trail Map 

  • For more information about the Cibola National Forest & Grasslands: Cibola National Forest Web Page

Available Activities

  • Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing
  • Hiking - Hiking
  • Biking - Biking

Directions

From Albuquerque, drive east on I-40 to Tijeras Exit 175; at the traffic light drive straight ahead and continue south for 7 miles on State Road 337 (James McGrane Memorial Highway). Look for the Cibola National Forest - Pine Flat Picnic sign on the east side of the road. As you enter the picnic site, look to your left. There you will find both reserve only sites A and B.

Contact Information

Phone: 505-281-3304

Sandia Ranger District
11776 HWY 337
TIJERAS, NM 87059

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery