Breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and natural wonders await you in New Mexico’s state parks.
From the stunning rock formations of City of Rocks State Park to the cool pine forests of Cimarron Canyon State Park, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy in these parks.
Families may enjoy getting up close with local wildlife at Living Desert Zoo State Park or taking a dip in the natural hot springs at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. With such a wide range of outdoor activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something you love here.
Come discover the beauty and adventure of New Mexico’s state parks!
Printable New Mexico State Parks Map
Bluewater Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a scenic state park to explore in New Mexico, you won’t want to miss Bluewater Lake State Park. This park is nestled in the Zuni Mountains, just a short drive west of Grants.
With 3,000 acres of land and a lake spanning 1,200 acres, there’s plenty of room to roam and enjoy the great outdoors. Fishing enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that the lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, tiger muskie, and channel catfish.
Bird watchers will also love this park, as there are over 68 different species of birds to spot throughout the year. And if you’re visiting during the winter months, you’ll have the unique opportunity to try your hand at ice fishing on the frozen lake.
So, whether you’re an angler, a bird lover, or just looking for a peaceful place to take in nature, Bluewater Lake State Park is a must-visit destination.
Bottomless Lakes State Park
If you’re looking for a unique and eye-catching state park to explore in New Mexico, Bottomless Lakes State Park is a wonderful choice.
Located just a short drive from Roswell, this park was the first state park in New Mexico and it’s easy to see why it’s still so popular today. The park is home to nine small, deep lakes that are absolutely stunning to see in person.
Whether you’re looking to swim, fish, or just relax and take in the natural beauty of the area, Bottomless Lakes State Park has something for everyone. So pack a picnic, grab your swimsuit, and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful state parks in New Mexico!
Brantley Lake State Park
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some outdoor fun in New Mexico, Brantley Lake State Park is definitely worth checking out! Located just a short drive from Carlsbad, this state park is home to a gorgeous man-made reservoir that’s ideal for boating and fishing.
With a surface area of around 4,000 acres, there’s plenty of space to explore and enjoy the water. However, it’s important to note that officials have found high levels of DDT in the fish, so it’s best to avoid eating them.
Still, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the park – there are 51 campsites with electricity, showers, and other amenities, as well as a playground and a visitor center. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking for a fun day trip, Brantley Lake State Park is a great choice!
Caballo Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a great spot for fishing and outdoor recreation, Caballo Lake State Park is well worth your time. Located just 16 miles south of Truth or Consequences, this state park offers visitors a chance to enjoy the dramatic Rio Grande and the awesome scenery of the surrounding area.
The lake itself is a sight to behold, spanning over 11,500 acres when it’s at its fullest, making it one of the largest lakes in the state. Fishing is the main draw here, with bass and walleye being the most commonly caught fish.
But even if you’re not an angler, there are plenty of other things to do, from hiking and camping to picnicking and wildlife watching. So pack up your gear and head on over to Caballo Lake State Park for a fun-filled day (or weekend) in the great outdoors!
Cerrillos Hills State Park
If you’re looking for a restful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, Cerrillos Hills State Park is the perfect place to unwind. With its incredible hills that range in elevation from 6,000 to 6,900 feet above sea level, this park offers sweeping views that will leave you in awe.
And the best part? It’s only a short drive from Santa Fe! Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Cerrillos Hills has plenty for everyone with its numerous hiking trails.
And if you need a break from the great outdoors, be sure to check out the new visitors’ center located in the charming village of Los Cerrillos. As New Mexico’s newest state park, Cerrillos Hills is a hidden gem that’s just waiting to be explored.
Cimarron Canyon State Park
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Cimarron Canyon State Park is an absolute delight for anyone traveling through New Mexico. The park is located just a few miles east of Eagle Nest, tucked away within the beautiful Colin Neblett Wildlife Area.
The park’s 8-mile stretch along the Cimarron Canyon is truly impressive, with the Palisades Sill cliffs towering above the Cimarron River. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful place to enjoy nature, Cimarron Canyon State Park is an excellent option.
With plenty of trails to explore and remarkable scenery at every turn, you’re sure to leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So why not pack a picnic and spend a day in this beautiful state park? You won’t regret it!
City of Rocks State Park
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If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind and inspirational outdoor experience in New Mexico, look no further than City of Rocks State Park. The park boasts impressive rock formations that rise as high as 40 feet, creating an otherworldly landscape that will leave you in awe.
Whether you’re up for a challenging hike or a peaceful picnic, this park has something for every taste. You can even try your hand at rock climbing or stargazing with the help of a 14-inch telescope.
And if you’re interested in learning more about the park’s flora and fauna, be sure to check out the desert botanical garden. With so much to see and do, City of Rocks State Park is a rewarding destination for any nature lover.
Clayton Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park in New Mexico that offers a one-off blend of natural beauty and history, look no further than Clayton Lake State Park.
Located just 15 miles north of Clayton, this park boasts a 170-acre recreational reservoir and a fossil trackway of dinosaur footprints that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
The landscape is astounding, with rolling grasslands, volcanic rocks, and sandstone bluffs that offer a glimpse into the natural wonders of the western edge of the Great Plains. In addition to picnicking, camping, and fishing at the lake, visitors can view one of the most extensive dinosaur trackways in North America.
Whether you’re an angler hoping to catch trout, catfish, bass, or walleye, or you’re simply looking for a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, Clayton Lake State Park has plenty of attractions to offer.
Conchas Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a great place to spend a day on the water, Conchas Lake State Park in New Mexico is definitely worth a trip! This beautiful state park is located in northeastern New Mexico, right next to the extraordinary 25-mile long Conchas Lake.
With an elevation of 4,200 feet and a surface area of 9,600 acres, this lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park is divided into two separate areas, north and south, and features nine public boat ramps, making it easy to access the lake from either side.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a fun day on the water with family and friends, Conchas Lake State Park is waiting for you!
Coyote Creek State Park
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If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Coyote Creek State Park is the perfect place to be.
This state park is a nature lover’s paradise that features a riparian canyon, hiking trails, and the most densely stocked trout stream in New Mexico. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to try your hand at fishing, Coyote Creek is the place to be.
With its picturesque scenery and abundant wildlife, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world. So pack up your camping gear and head on over to Coyote Creek State Park for a truly unforgettable experience.
Eagle Nest Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy the great outdoors in New Mexico, you won’t want to miss Eagle Nest Lake State Park. Located just outside of Eagle Nest and about 30 miles east of Taos, this state park is a must-visit for anyone who loves fishing, boating, or just soaking up the beauty of nature.
The park’s main attraction is its 2,400-acre lake, which offers plenty of opportunities for summer fun like boating and fishing. In the winter, the lake transforms into a playground for ice fishing and snowmobiling.
The lake is also home to a wide variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, and many others. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, Eagle Nest Lake State Park will definitely repay your time.
Elephant Butte Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park in New Mexico that’s perfect for water activities, look no further than Elephant Butte Lake State Park! As the largest state park in the state, it’s no surprise that it surrounds New Mexico’s largest reservoir.
With over 200 miles of shoreline and a 36,000-acre reservoir, there’s plenty of space to boat, swim, and fish to your heart’s content. The park is named after a rock formation that looks like an elephant, which is a fun fact to share with your friends and family as you explore.
History buffs will appreciate the visitor center’s information on the construction of the Elephant Butte Dam, which is a major feature of the Elephant Butte National Register Historic District.
And with three developed campsites, over 200 camping and picnicking sites, and concession-operated marinas and stores, you’ll have everything you need for a fun-filled day (or weekend) on the water.
El Vado Lake State Park
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El Vado Lake State Park in northern New Mexico is an outstanding destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day out in nature. With over 100 camping and picnic sites, you can easily make a weekend of it and enjoy the sweeping views of the 3,200-acre lake.
The lake is perfect for fishing, with salmon and trout being the most popular catch. Boating is also a popular activity on the lake, and unlike nearby Heron Lake, boat speeds are not restricted.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, a 5.5-mile hiking trail runs to the north and connects to the Heron Lake State Park via a pedestrian suspension bridge. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away or an active day out in nature, El Vado Lake State Park is a delightful choice.
Fenton Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a calming escape from the stresses and strains of city life, Fenton Lake State Park is well worth a visit.
Nestled in the beautiful Jemez Mountains, this park boasts a stunning 37-acre lake that’s perfect for fishing enthusiasts. You can expect to find a variety of trout species in the lake, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat.
But even if you’re not into fishing, there’s still plenty to enjoy at Fenton Lake State Park. Take a leisurely hike through the scenic forest, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and soak up the natural beauty around you.
Heron Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a picturesque state park to escape to, Heron Lake State Park in New Mexico should be at the top of your list. This park boasts an 80-mile distance from Santa Fe and features the phenomenal Heron Lake reservoir.
The reservoir was created as part of the San Juan-Chama Project and is held in place by the Heron Dam. With over 200 camping and picnic sites, Heron Lake State Park is perfect for a weekend getaway. The lake is also a popular destination for salmon and trout fishing, and small boat sailing.
The park has a no-wake policy, so you can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing experience on the water. For those who prefer hiking, there is a 5.5-mile trail that crosses the Rio Chama Gorge via a pedestrian suspension bridge and leads to El Vado Lake State Park.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a serene getaway, Heron Lake State Park is a must-visit destination.
Hyde Memorial State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park that’s close to Santa Fe, then Hyde Memorial State Park is the ideal place for you! Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this park offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
During the summer months, hiking and camping are popular pastimes, with numerous trails to explore and campsites to pitch your tent. And when winter rolls around, the snow-covered hillsides are perfect for tubing!
Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or an exciting adventure, Hyde Memorial State Park is well worth a visit.
Leasburg Dam State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park that’s rich in history and offers a variety of activities, Leasburg Dam State Park is a marvelous option. Located on the Rio Grande, this park provides opportunities for camping, hiking, picnicking, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
You can even visit the nearby historic Fort Seldon State Monument and take a step back in time. The park’s dam, completed in 1908, diverts water into a system of canals for nearby farms. Plus, from mid-March to mid-October, you can enjoy fishing, canoeing, and kayaking in the Rio Grande.
With year-round camping and bird watching, there’s always something to do at Leasburg Dam State Park. So, pack your bags and head on over to this beautiful New Mexico park!
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park
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If you’re looking for a unique experience in New Mexico, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is an exciting option. This park showcases the flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert in their natural habitats.
You’ll get to see animals like bighorn sheep, black-tailed prairie dogs, and golden eagles up close, and you’ll learn about the plants and cacti that thrive in this harsh environment. The park is situated on the Ocotillo Hills, so you’ll also get a dramatic view of Carlsbad and the Pecos River.
Plus, the park is open every day except Christmas, so you can plan your visit at your convenience. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture some amazing shots of the wildlife and scenery!
Manzano Mountains State Park
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If you’re looking for a soothing escape into nature, Manzano Mountains State Park is certainly worth your attention. Nestled on the eastern slope of the Manzano Mountains, this park offers incredible views, a variety of hiking trails, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
If you’re an avid bird-watcher, be sure to bring your binoculars, as the park is home to a diverse array of species. And if you’re looking to spend the night, the camping facilities are top-notch.
The best part? Unlike some of the more popular state parks in New Mexico, Manzano Mountains State Park is less crowded and less developed, meaning you can truly disconnect and soak up the beauty of the great outdoors.
Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park
Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is a hidden gem in New Mexico that you won’t want to miss. This beautiful state park is located near Las Cruces and covers approximately 305 acres of land.
The park is home to a riverside forest, also known as a bosque, which follows the Rio Grande. If you’re a fan of bird watching, then you’re in luck because the park is a popular spot for migratory birds. The restored wetlands are also a sight to see.
This park is great for a day trip, as it is day-use only and camping is not allowed. You can enjoy walking or biking through the park and taking in all the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Morphy Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Morphy Lake State Park is well worth checking out. This charming park may be on the smaller side, but it’s big on outdoor recreation opportunities.
Fishing enthusiasts will love the chance to cast a line in the stocked lake, which is home to trout and kokanee salmon. And if you’re a fan of camping and picnicking, the park has plenty of spots to set up camp and enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. Just remember to bring your own water, as there’s no running water available.
Boating is also allowed on the lake, though you’ll need to leave your gas-powered motor at home. And if you’re visiting during the winter months, you might even get to try your hand at ice fishing!
With its stunning natural scenery and range of activities, Morphy Lake State Park is a true highlight of northern New Mexico.
Navajo Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to spend a day or weekend in New Mexico, Navajo Lake State Park should be at the top of your list. This park boasts an impressive 15,600-acre lake that stretches over 25 miles, surrounded by scenic mountains and forests.
Whether you’re looking to fish, boat, hike, or just relax on the beach, Navajo Lake has something for everyone. The lake is part of the Colorado River Storage Project, making it an important source of water for the region.
While the construction of the dam and resulting lake did unfortunately destroy a sacred Navajo site, the park still honors the history and culture of the Navajo people. Come visit Navajo Lake State Park and experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of this special place.
Oasis State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun day trip in New Mexico, Oasis State Park should be at the top of your list! Located just north of Portales in Roosevelt County, this state park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
One of the park’s main attractions is the small fishing lake, where you can try your luck at catching trout, catfish, and more. But even if you’re not into fishing, the park has plenty to offer.
The sand dunes are a must-see, and the unique scenery is sure to make for some great photos. Just be aware that the water quality in the lake is poor, so it’s not recommended for swimming. Overall, Oasis State Park is a great place to spend a day exploring the great outdoors in New Mexico.
Oliver Lee Memorial State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park that offers a little bit of everything, look no further than Oliver Lee Memorial State Park in New Mexico. This park features two tracts of land that preserve a beautiful canyon and a historic 19th-century ranch house.
With 640 acres of land to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do here. Take a hike on the Dog Canyon Trail, which climbs the canyon walls over a distance of 5.5 miles, or explore the riparian environment along the stream on the interpretive trail.
If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are 44 campsites available, 16 of which have electric hookups. And if you’re just looking for a spot to enjoy a picnic, there are plenty of picnic areas throughout the park.
Whether you’re camping, hiking, picnicking, or just enjoying the wildlife, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park is the perfect place to spend a day or two.
Pancho Villa State Park
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If you’re interested in history, Pancho Villa State Park in New Mexico is a thought-provoking destination. This park is located in the Village of Columbus, which is a National Historic Landmark District.
The area commemorates the 1916 raid by Pancho Villa on the town of Columbus and the American military response to that raid. The Punitive Expedition led by General John J. Pershing was a significant event during World War I, the Mexican Revolution, and the Border War.
You can explore the park’s museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the raid and the expedition. The park also offers camping, hiking trails, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the area and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Percha Dam State Park
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If you’re looking for a serene escape in southern New Mexico, Percha Dam State Park is definitely worth a visit.
Located just 21 miles south of Truth or Consequences, this state park covers roughly 80 acres and boasts a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for fishing, bird watching, and water activities like rafting and kayaking.
The park’s reservoir is created by the Percha Dam, which was constructed to raise the elevation of the Rio Grande and help irrigate the chile pepper crop downstream. While the reservoir is slow-moving, it’s a beautiful spot to spend a day on the water.
And if you’re a bird enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that Percha Dam State Park is a hotspot for migratory birds during the spring and autumn seasons.
Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
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If you’re looking for a soothing escape from the hectic pace of modern life, the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is the perfect destination.
This 38-acre urban wildlife preserve is situated right next to the Rio Grande in Albuquerque, and it’s been a popular spot for nature lovers since it was established in 1982. The park is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, and about two thirds of the grounds are dedicated to preserving their natural habitat.
Visitors can explore the park’s two gardens, take a stroll through several wildlife viewing areas, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the education building. Don’t forget to stop by the visitors center and check out the non-profit Wildlife Rescue, Inc.
And if you’re a bird watcher, be sure to keep an eye out for the four constructed ponds that provide a habitat for a variety of winged creatures.
Rockhound State Park
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Rockhound State Park is a hidden gem in New Mexico, perfect for rock collectors and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its abundance of minerals, visitors can spend hours searching for quartz crystals, geodes, jasper, perlite, and other unique finds.
What’s even better is that this park allows you to take your findings home for personal use! Not only is the park a rock collector’s paradise, but it also offers camping areas for those who want to stay longer and explore the beautiful Little Florida Mountains.
If you’re short on time, the Spring Canyon Recreation Area is a great option for a day trip. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this unique state park and take home some one-of-a-kind souvenirs!
Santa Rosa Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to fish, boat, or just relax by the water, Santa Rosa Lake State Park is the place for you!
Located on the eastern plains of New Mexico, this park features an expansive 3,800-acre reservoir that’s home to all sorts of fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, and even walleye. And with an elevation of 4,800 feet above sea level, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as you spend your day on the water.
Whether you’re an avid angler or just looking for a peaceful place to escape the noise of everyday life, Santa Rosa Lake State Park is well worth a trip. So pack up your gear and head on over to this beautiful park, located just 7 miles north of the town of Santa Rosa via New Mexico Route 91.
Storrie Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park that offers a little bit of everything, Storrie Lake State Park is the right place for you. With a lake spanning over 1,100 acres, you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy all kinds of water activities like boating and fishing.
And if you’re not a fan of water sports, there’s still plenty to do on land – the park has hiking trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike. Plus, if you’re looking to spend a night under the stars, you can set up camp right in the park.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a fun day trip, Storrie Lake State Park is certainly worth a look.
Sugarite Canyon State Park
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If you’re looking for a state park that combines natural beauty and fascinating history, Sugarite Canyon State Park is definitely worth a visit.
Located on the Colorado-New Mexico state line just a short drive from Raton, this park offers visitors the chance to explore the ruins of a once-thriving coal-mining town and enjoy amazing scenery at the border of the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains.
Whether you’re interested in fishing and boating on Lake Maloya and Lake Alice, camping and picnicking in one of the park’s many developed sites, or hiking and horseback riding on one of the park’s 13 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone at Sugarite Canyon.
And if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that skiing is possible all winter long in the park. So pack your bags and head to Sugarite Canyon State Park for an unforgettable adventure!
Sumner Lake State Park
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Sumner Lake State Park is a secluded delight located in the eastern plains of New Mexico. This park boasts a massive 4,500-acre reservoir that was created in 1939 by the Sumner Dam.
The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and walleye. With its campground and wonderful views of the sky, Sumner Lake State Park is an idyllic spot for amateur astronomy.
Plus, the park’s distance from other cities means that there is very little light pollution, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Whether you’re looking to fish or just relax and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, Sumner Lake State Park is an exciting choice.
Ute Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun outdoor adventure in New Mexico, Ute Lake State Park is the perfect spot! This state park is located on the eastern plains and boasts a staggering 8,200-acre reservoir that’s home to a variety of fish species.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to cast a line for the first time, you’ll love the largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and walleye that call this reservoir home. What’s even more impressive is that the state-owned Ute Dam creating the reservoir was completed without any federal funding.
With an elevation of 3,900 feet above sea level, Ute Lake State Park offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Plus, the park is just a short drive from the town of Logan and is easily accessible via New Mexico State Road 540.
So why not pack a picnic, grab your fishing gear, and head to Ute Lake State Park for a day of fun in the sun!
Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park
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If you’re looking for a place to honor the brave men and women who served in the Vietnam War, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park is a must-visit destination.
Located in Angel Fire, New Mexico, this national memorial is a powerful tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for our country. Once a state park, it is now under the Department of Veteran Services, and it’s easy to see why.
The memorial is a touching reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans, and it’s an important reminder of the price of freedom. Recognized by the United States Congress as a memorial of national significance in 1987, this park is a powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes.
So if you’re looking for a place to reflect and pay your respects, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park really should be on your itinerary.
Villanueva State Park
If you’re looking for a serene escape from the stresses of modern life, Villanueva State Park is the perfect place to unwind.
Located on the picturesque banks of the Pecos River, the park boasts stunning red and yellow sandstone cliffs, native cottonwood trees, and a variety of other plants that will take your breath away.
With an elevation of 6,110 feet above sea level, the park sits at the crossroads of The Rocky Mountains and The Great Plains, making for a unique and beautiful landscape. If you’re up for a hike, the lookout trails offer breathtaking views of the Pecos River.
However, it’s important to note that the water in the river south of the park has shown signs of base metals and mercury, including elevated levels of copper, lead, and zinc. So come for the views, but leave the swimming to the fish!
