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Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway

The Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway is a 33-mile backcountry byway located in El Malpais National Conservation Area (NCA) and National Monument in northwestern New Mexico. The byway, which is County Road 42, passes almost exclusively through public lands. County Road 42 forms the western boundary of the West Malpais Wilderness and connects NM 53 and NM 117. For information regarding what you will see or the public lands you will have access to along the byway, see BLM's El Malpais NCA…

  • State: New Mexico
  • Managed by: Bureau of Land Management
  • Coordinates: 35.00109639000004, -108.08333329999999

Nearby & related campgrounds

  • Ojo Redondo Campground
  • El Morro Campground
  • El Morro Visitor Center
  • El Malpais National Conservation Area
  • El Malpais Visitor Center
  • NW NM Multiagency Visitor Center Interpretive
  • Aden Hills Off-Highway Vehicle Area
  • Angel Peak Scenic Area
  • Cabezon Wilderness Study Area
  • Cebolla Wilderness Area
  • Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
  • El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail
  • El Malpais National Conservation Area
  • Gila Lower Box Canyon

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  • All campgrounds in New Mexico

Frequently asked questions

Is Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway reservable?

Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway is primarily first-come, first-served. Use the availability view to gauge how busy it is before you go.

Where is Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway?

Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway is located in New Mexico. See the map for its exact location and directions.

How do I book a campsite at Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway?

Pick your dates on the availability calendar, then reserve through the official booking link. You can also set an alert and we'll notify you if a sold-out date opens up.

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