Discover the Serenity of Black River Recreation Area
Experience the natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities at Black River Recreation Area, a true gem in New Mexico's outdoor landscape.
Black River Recreation Area in Carlsbad, New Mexico, is a stunning natural escape for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility. With its scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities, it's an ideal destination for families, anglers, and nature enthusiasts alike, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors.
A brief summary to Black River Recreation Area
- 222 Washington Ranch Rd, Carlsbad, New Mexico, 88220, US
- +1575-234-5972
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning for the best fishing opportunities and to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive.
- Bring sunscreen and plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, to stay hydrated and protected.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to attract more visitors.
Getting There
-
Car
From the Carlsbad Caverns Visitor Center, head south on the main park road towards US-62/180. Turn right onto US-62/180 and continue for about 4 miles. Then, take the exit toward Carlsbad and merge onto US-285 South. After approximately 12 miles, take the exit for NM-31. Turn left onto NM-31 and continue for about 7 miles until you reach Washington Ranch Road. Turn left onto Washington Ranch Road and follow it for approximately 1.5 miles until you arrive at the Black River Recreation Area.
-
Public Transportation
Currently, there is no public transportation directly servicing the Black River Recreation Area from Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Visitors are encouraged to use a rental car or arrange for a taxi or rideshare service. If you are staying in Carlsbad, you can contact local taxi services to check for availability and pricing. Ensure to confirm the estimated fare before your ride.
Discover more about Black River Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Carlsbad AAFB Aux #1
29.3 km
Explore the rich military legacy and stunning desert landscapes at Carlsbad AAFB Aux #1, a captivating historical landmark in New Mexico.
Ship on the Desert
31.3 km
Discover the Ship on the Desert, a unique historical landmark in Dell City, Texas, offering a glimpse into the region's captivating past amidst a stunning desert landscape.
Carlsbad Army Airfield WWII
34.4 km
Explore the historic Carlsbad Army Airfield WWII, a significant military site that shaped aviation history during World War II.
Frijole Ranch Museum
37.6 km
Explore the Frijole Ranch Museum in Salt Flat, Texas, where history meets the breathtaking beauty of the Guadalupe Mountains.
Pinery Butterfield Stage Station Ruins
39.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes at the Pinery Butterfield Stage Station Ruins in Salt Flat, Texas.
New Mexico Official Scenic Historic Markers
41.0 km
Explore New Mexico's rich history at Official Scenic Historic Markers, where culture and breathtaking landscapes collide in a unique travel experience.
Flume
41.1 km
Experience the warmth of American comfort food at Flume in Carlsbad, NM, where every meal feels like home.
Cal's Cactus Lane Bowling & Recreation
41.3 km
Experience fun and camaraderie at Cal's Cactus Lane Bowling & Recreation in Carlsbad, NM—where every frame is a new memory.
Carlsbad Monument Co
41.4 km
Explore the artistry of memorials at Carlsbad Monument Co, a unique destination in New Mexico dedicated to personalized craftsmanship and local history.
El Charro
41.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Charro, Carlsbad's beloved Mexican restaurant, offering generous portions and a lively atmosphere.
Danny's Place
41.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of barbecue at Danny's Place in Carlsbad, NM, where smoky meats and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.
North Star Laundry Mat Lea Street
41.7 km
North Star Laundry Mat in Carlsbad, NM: Clean, convenient, and essential for travelers needing laundry services in New Mexico's beautiful landscapes.
Little Kawaii
42.0 km
Explore Little Kawaii in Carlsbad, NM—your ultimate destination for anime, gifts, and a taste of Japanese and Korean culture.
The Laundry Basket
42.0 km
Experience a clean and convenient laundry service at The Laundry Basket in Carlsbad, NM, perfect for refreshing your wardrobe during your travels.
El Jimador Restaurant
42.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Mexico at El Jimador Restaurant in Carlsbad, NM, where vibrant flavors meet a warm atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area
1.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area in Carlsbad, NM, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
8.4 km
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, a geological wonderland filled with stunning caves and diverse wildlife.
Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead
8.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await every hiker.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, your gateway to stunning limestone caves and diverse ecosystems.
Bat Flight Amphitheater
9.4 km
Witness the breathtaking bat flight at Carlsbad Caverns' Bat Flight Amphitheater, a must-visit natural spectacle in New Mexico.
Carlsbad Cavern Natural Entrance
9.4 km
Discover the wonders of Carlsbad Cavern Natural Entrance in New Mexico, a breathtaking underground marvel filled with stunning formations and rich biodiversity.
Slaughter Canyon Cave
9.5 km
Explore the breathtaking formations of Slaughter Canyon Cave, a hidden gem in New Mexico's stunning landscape perfect for hiking and adventure.
Carlsbad Caverns Wilderness
11.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns Wilderness in New Mexico, a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Sitting Bull Falls
26.9 km
Discover Sitting Bull Falls, a stunning waterfall in New Mexico, where nature's beauty awaits amidst captivating landscapes and serene waters.
Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area
27.2 km
Explore the mesmerizing beauty of Sitting Bull Falls, where cascading waterfalls and serene picnic spots await your discovery in New Mexico's desert paradise.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Headquarters
39.5 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Headquarters, a natural wonderland in New Mexico, perfect for adventurous spirits.
Cass Park
39.6 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Cass Park in Carlsbad, NM—a perfect destination for families and nature lovers alike.
Hall Addition Park
41.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Hall Addition Park in Carlsbad, NM, where nature and relaxation come together in a perfect escape.
Arcadia Park
41.0 km
Explore Arcadia Park: A serene green oasis in Carlsbad, NM, perfect for picnics, nature walks, and family fun.
Puckett Park
41.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Puckett Park in Carlsbad, NM, where lush greenery and family-friendly amenities create an inviting outdoor retreat.
Essential places to dine
Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunch Room
9.1 km
Enjoy delicious sandwiches amidst stunning geological wonders at Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunch Room, a must-visit dining experience.
Cactus Cafe
12.5 km
Discover the flavors of New Mexico at Cactus Cafe, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality near Carlsbad Caverns.
Taqueria Jalisco
37.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Taqueria Jalisco in Carlsbad – where every bite tells a story.
Ocotillo Sports Bar and Grill
38.7 km
Discover Ocotillo Sports Bar and Grill in Carlsbad: where delicious cuisine meets vibrant sports culture in an inviting atmosphere.
Mariscos El Buchón
39.0 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Mariscos El Buchón in Carlsbad - where every dish brings the taste of the ocean to your plate.
Tina's Mexican Café
39.3 km
Discover Tina's Mexican Café: where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in Carlsbad, NM.
The Carrot Top
39.4 km
Experience delightful dining at The Carrot Top in Carlsbad, NM - where fresh ingredients meet flavorful creations in a cozy setting.
La Patrona
39.5 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at La Patrona in Carlsbad, NM – where every dish is a celebration of flavor.
Kacys Kitchen
39.7 km
Experience the charm of Kacy's Kitchen in Carlsbad - where delicious American comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Sabor Mexicano
39.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Sabor Mexicano in Carlsbad, NM – where every dish tells a story!
Sotelo's Food and Clamatos
39.7 km
Experience the best seafood in Carlsbad at Sotelo's Food and Clamatos - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Maria's Mexican Food
39.8 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Maria's Mexican Food in Carlsbad—where every dish is crafted with care and flavor.
Big Dogz Tacos, LLC
39.9 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Big Dogz Tacos, LLC—Carlsbad's top destination for delicious tacos and vibrant dining.
El Nopal
39.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Nopal in Carlsbad - where every meal is a flavorful journey into tradition.
Thelma's Wangs & Thangs
40.2 km
Discover delicious chicken wings in Carlsbad at Thelma's Wangs & Thangs – your go-to spot for flavorful bites and friendly vibes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company
9.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local flavors at Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company, your perfect stop near the stunning Carlsbad Caverns.
White's City Gift Shop
12.4 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at White's City Gift Shop, the perfect stop for tourists visiting Carlsbad Caverns.
Calvani Pecan Co
40.3 km
Explore Calvani Pecan Co in Carlsbad, NM, where delightful pecan treats await you - a true taste of local flavor and tradition.
Pilot Travel Center
40.3 km
Discover the Pilot Travel Center in Carlsbad, NM - your ultimate roadside stop for fuel, food, and convenience while on the go.
Cato Fashions
40.4 km
Discover trendy women's clothing at Cato Fashions in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where style meets affordability for the perfect shopping experience.
Walmart Supercenter
40.4 km
Discover Walmart Supercenter in Carlsbad, NM - a comprehensive shopping experience for travelers with everything you need under one roof.
La Tienda Thriftway
41.3 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce at La Tienda Thriftway, the heart of grocery shopping in Carlsbad, NM.
El Vaquerito Western Wear & Workwear
41.3 km
Discover authentic western apparel at El Vaquerito in Carlsbad, NM—your destination for cowboy culture and quality workwear.
HTeaO - Carlsbad
41.5 km
Explore HTeaO in Carlsbad, NM: A Tea Store Offering Premium Brews and a Cozy Atmosphere for All Tea Lovers.
Bosque Cbd
41.6 km
Discover wellness at Bosque Cbd in Carlsbad, New Mexico – your go-to destination for organic products and CBD expertise.
Cloud 9 Smoke Shop
42.1 km
Explore Cloud 9 Smoke Shop in Carlsbad, NM for an exceptional selection of vaporizers and a welcoming shopping experience.
Decor Furniture
42.2 km
Discover stylish furniture and decor at Decor Furniture in Carlsbad, NM - a treasure trove for home design enthusiasts.
Frida's closet
42.2 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Frida's Closet in Carlsbad, NM - a must-visit boutique for trendy apparel and local style.
Pecos Valley Production - Mermod
42.2 km
Discover the vibrant cannabis scene at Pecos Valley Production - Mermod in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where quality meets community.
Rugged Trade
42.3 km
Discover high-quality work clothes, outdoor gear, and western apparel at Rugged Trade in Carlsbad, NM - your adventure starts here!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Co
39.3 km
Discover the flavors of New Mexico at Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Co, a welcoming brewpub in Carlsbad offering local craft beers and delicious food.
Blue Cactus Lounge
41.2 km
Discover the lively social scene at Blue Cactus Lounge, Carlsbad's go-to bar for craft cocktails, local brews, and unforgettable experiences.
Cal's Shade Western
41.3 km
Discover the heart of Carlsbad at Cal's Shade Western, where delicious grilled meals and a friendly atmosphere await every traveler.
SIPS Sodas & Snacks
44.0 km
Experience the refreshing taste of SIPS Sodas & Snacks in Carlsbad, NM—where every sip and snack is a moment to cherish.
