Recreation at Galisteo Dam consists of hiking and bike riding across the dam and its scenic trails. Many visitors just come out and enjoy the tranquil view and relax reading a book while absorbing the warmth of the New Mexico sun.

The historic section of the Camino Real Trail that is within the fee boundaries is called the Alamitos Section. The trail is a remaining example of the Comino Real de Tierra Adentro, also known as the King’s Highway, that was used to bring settlers into New Mexico from Mexico and Spain.