About Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area
The Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area is located in southern New Mexico, approximately 30 miles southwest of Las Cruces in the Chihuahuan Desert. These mountains are a series of 48 volcanic cinder cones with small sand dunes, playas, and lava fields in-between. The vegetation consists of desert grasses and shrubs. Indian Basin, a natural depression at the southwest end of the West Potrillo Mountains, fills with water during the rainy season providing a temporary pond for ducks. Wintering raptors are found in high numbers due to a high small mammal prey base. Per the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act which became law on March 12, 2019, this web page is currently being updated. To find more information on the new wilderness areas in New Mexico created by the Act, please visit: Wilderness Connect
How to Get There
From I-10, about 8 miles south of Anthony, NM (at the TX state line), take exit #8 to TX 178/Artcraft Rd. After exiting, take the second right onto TX 178/Artcraft Rd and drive about 9 miles to NM 9/Columbus Rd (Note: TX-178 becomes NM-136 at the state line). Turn right and drive west about 24 miles on NM Hwy 9 to County Road 005. Turn right and drive north. At just over 1 mile, you will reach a gate on private land; continue for another .5 miles to reenter public lands. For the next 3 miles, between the private land and the intersection with County Road 007, the WSA is on the left of the road which forms the WSAs eastern boundary.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area
Heading to Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area?
No central reservation system listed for Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/15127) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area?
From I-10, about 8 miles south of Anthony, NM (at the TX state line), take exit #8 to TX 178/Artcraft Rd. After exiting, take the second right onto TX 178/Artcraft Rd and drive about 9 miles to NM 9/Columbus Rd (Note: TX-178 becomes NM-136 at the state line). Turn right and drive west about 24 miles on NM Hwy 9 to County Road 005. Turn right and drive north. At just over 1 mile, you will reach a g…
How do I contact Potrillo Mountains Wilderness Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 575-525-4300.
References & Official Resources
