Gila Lower Box Canyon

Gila Lower Box Canyon is a riparian recreation area managed by the BLM Las Cruces District in Hidalgo County, New Mexico, located 20 miles north of Lordsburg. Access requires 4-wheel-drive, high-clearance vehicles on designated County Road routes. The area supports approximately 200 bird species and provides year-round fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish, camping, and wildlife viewing. Multiple river access points at Nichol's Canyon (3.5 miles), Fisherman's Point (6 miles), and Spring-on-the-Bluff (8 miles) lead to the Gila River canyon. Native riparian vegetation (cottonwood, willows) has re-established since livestock removal in 1990. Canoeing and rafting are possible during spring runoff.