Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River
The Rio Chama, a major tributary of the Río Grande, flows through a multi-colored sandstone canyon whose walls increase to 1,500 feet above the river as you travel downstream. Co-managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), 24.6 miles of the river is Congressionally designated as a Wild and Scenic River and flows through the Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area managed by the BLM, and the Chama River Canyon Wilderness managed by the USFS.
Towering cliffs, heavily wooded side canyons, and historical sites offer an outstanding wild river backdrop for the angler or boater. To protect the river environment from overuse, and to maintain an opportunity for a high-quality experience, boating is limited to set number of boaters per day. There is a lottery system to assign launch dates.
LOTTERY INFORMATION
Because of the demand for trips in late spring and summer, the BLM uses a lottery system to reserve weekend (Friday-Saturday) launch dates from April 15 through September 15. Please not that for a launch after September 15 and before April 15, no advance reservation is required – you simply show up at the launch site, fill out a registration form, pay the fees, and go.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
Boating in this area can be extremely hazardous, requiring skill and endurance. Visitors need to be able to handle rapids, cold water, boating for several miles, and/or swimming to safety if the need arises.
Know Before You Go
Fees
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Yes, refer to the Lottery System link above.
Facilities
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There are no restrooms or potable water at the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River.
Nearby Amenities
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The nearest location to acquire food, gas, and water is in Tierra Amarilla, ~15 miles away via NM-112 N.
Seasons/Hours
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Open year-round.
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Winter conditions can be severe and make hiking/boating conditions difficult.
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Special Rules
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Boating – Boating in this area can be extremely hazardous, requiring superior skills and endurance. River access requires hiking boats and equipment into the gorge.
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All boaters must register by calling the River Program at the Taos Field Office 575-758-8851 prior to launching.
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Fishing – Río Grande anglers are challenged by Rio Grande Cutthroat, brown, and rainbow trout, as well as northern pike. The Red River supports a fishery of rainbow trout stocked by the Red River Fish Hatchery located upstream of the Recreation Area. To improve trout fisheries, Special Fishing Regulations are in effect.
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All anglers must have a valid New Mexico fishing license and a Wildlife Habitat Improvement Validation in their possession. Fishing licenses are sold in Questa. The daily bag and possession limit is 4 fish per license holder.
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Pets must be on a max 6 ft leash at all times.
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No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons
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Practice Leave No Trace. Please make sure to carry out or dispose of any litter.
Brochures, Maps, and Publications
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N/A
Wildlife in Area
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N/A
Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River Flickr Slideshow
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N/A
Phone
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
El Vado Ranch is reached via NM 112 from US 84 near Tierra Amarilla. Forest Road 151 just north of Ghost Ranch on US 84 reaches the lower part of the river. Forest Road 151 is a dirt road and not easily accessible when wet.
Fees
Yes