Pine Flat Picnic Sites - A and B
Cibola National Forest and Grasslands
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.
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.
Need to Know
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.
- Please DO NOT park in front of any gates. They must be accessible at all times.
- 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.
- 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? (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
- Star Party info: Albuquerque Astronomical Society
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.
Nearby Attractions
The historic Cedro Cemetery and the town of Tijeras are about five miles from the picnic area.
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.
Contact Information
Mailing
Sandia Ranger District 11776 HWY 337 TIJERAS NM 87059
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 505-281-3304
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving 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.
