Camel Rock

Closeup view from pathway. mikewalker (Atlas Obscura User)

Just outside of Tesuque Pueblo, New Mexico, a sandstone camel greets drivers on the highway below.

Camel Rock is a natural landmark composed of pink sandstone and measures about 40 feet high and 100 feet long. The rock formation is iconic to the local population and has lent its name to a nearby casino.

It has also recently become the namesake of the first-ever Native American-owned film company, Camel Rock Studio. It has also appeared as a background setting in several movies, including The Man From Laramie, Cowboy, and most recently the animated hit show Bojack Horseman.

Camel Rock once had a more prominent snout. Unfortunately, a large chunk of sandstone fell off the formation in 2017.

Know Before You Go

Camel Rock is easily visible from US Highway 285, which extends north of Santa Fe towards northern New Mexico and Colorado.

If you would like to stop and get a closer look, there is a small parking area accessible with picnic tables and informational signs about the Tesuque Pueblo.

Visiting is free. There is a short paved walk from the parking lot to the fence at the base of the camel.

Driving north from Santa Fe, use exit 175 to access it. You cannot climb Camel Rock, and a tall fence protects the landmark from intruders.