El Malpais National Conservation Area
The El Malpais National Conservation Area (NCA) was established in 1987 to protect nationally significant geological, archaeological, ecological, cultural, scenic, scientific, and wilderness resources surrounding the Zuni-Bandera volcanic field. El Malpais translates to "the badlands" in Spanish.
The NCA features dramatic sandstone cliffs, canyons, La Ventana Natural Arch, Chain of Craters Back Country Byway, Joe Skeen Campground, the Narrows Picnic Area, and the Cebolla and West Malpais Wilderness Areas – offering exceptional opportunities for photography, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
For more than 10,000 years, people have interacted with the El Malpais landscape. Historic and prehistoric sites provide connections to the past. These cultural resources remain alive through the spiritual and physical presence of contemporary Indigenous peoples, including the Ramah Navajo and Puebloan peoples of Acoma, Laguna, and Zuni, who continue their ancestral practices of gathering plant materials, paying respect, and renewing ties to this land.
Freedom 250 Events
Community Art Program
The Public Lands Interpretive Association and the Bureau of Land Management invited artists from El Malpais' surrounding areas to participate in a unique collaboration – weaving together art, land stewardship, history, culture, and conservation. This project celebrates local artists while preserving the history of El Malpais NCA for generations to come. We hope visitors will enjoy the artwork on display while deepening their appreciation for the remarkable resources of this area of the New Mexico landscape.
Join the adventure at El Malpais with the new Junior Ranger Guide
The El Malpais NCA Junior Ranger Guide explores the history, culture, geology, and natural resources of the area through engaging educational activities, including word games, logic puzzles, and coloring activities. Download the guide to print at home, or request to have a copy mailed to you by calling the Rio Puerco Field Office at 505-761-8700.
Once completed, take the oath with an onsite Ranger at El Malpais NCA, become an official El Malpais Junior Ranger, and receive your badge! If you are unable to complete the guide on site, mail your completed booklet to 100 Sun Ave NE, Suite 330, Albuquerque, NM 87109 and we will mail your patch to you!