The Tent Rocks. Tent Rocks where large cone-shaped formations are widespread. It is located a few miles from the Cochiti Pueblo in New Mexico. The rock is not sandstone, but is composed of "tuff" resulting from deposits of volcanic ash that has formed a thick layer of rock. Over the years, this relatively soft rock has eroded away except where a "capstone" made of some harder rock protects a cone of tuff below it.

Some cones are up to 90 feet high, but the ones shown in the photos are more typical being in the 15 to 30 foot range. Overall, the Tent Rocks are interesting to look at and is a great way to spend a few hours. Also, the ground contains an abundance of black volcanic glass (obsidian) drops called Apache Tears. It is perfectly legal to remove these rocks and there is something satisfying searching for and picking up these smooth, shiny black rocks from the otherwise dusty, ash-like soil.

Directions: The Tent Rocks are located about half-way between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. From Albuquerque you would take I-25 north to Hwy.22 west. From Santa Fe you would take I-25 south to Hwy. 16 west. Both of these highways will bring you to the Cochiti Lake Dam. At the Cochiti Lake Dam there are signs directing you to the Tent Rocks.

We hope that you will use this website to make the most of your trip to New Mexico a memorable one and we sincerely hope the you enjoy your vacation in New Mexico as much as I have enjoyed the state for the past 40 years.

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