City of Rocks State Park Is the Single Best State Park in New Mexico and It’s Just Waiting To Be Explored

There are some pretty incredible state parks in New Mexico, and it is certainly hard to pick a favorite. However, there is one that we love to recommend to readers—City of Rocks State Park. Located in the southwest corner of the state near Deming and Silver City, this state park is filled with the most unique and remarkable landscapes, camping opportunities, and hiking trails. In fact, you may just find this is the single best state park in New Mexico for a day of exploration.

So, what makes City of Rocks State Park one of the best? Well, its terrain will certainly impress you. City of Rocks is home to enormous rock columns, also known as pinnacles, that can reach up to 40 feet high. The pinnacles are separated by small pathways, causing the rocks to look like buildings standing tall on a city street.

These columns are made from volcanic rock and are estimated to be more than 34 million years old. It is believed that a volcano erupted in the area and erosion has created the remarkable landscape that we enjoy today.

One of the best ways to explore this fascinating state park in New Mexico is on your own two feet. Two hiking trails in this state park (Hydra Trail and Table Mountain) will take you to mesmerizing views and are excellent ways to explore all this park has to offer. The Hydra Trail, for example, is an easy 3.3-mile loop that is ideal for the entire family.

And while this state park is a fabulous day trip destination, we also recommend you consider an overnight adventure. Bring your tent or RV and stay in the campground at the City of Rocks State Park. You will sleep right next to the large rock columns and you may even hear the coyotes howling in the night.

Just make sure you don't go to bed early when you spend the night here. This is an International Dark Sky Park and a popular destination for stargazers. As you look up, you'll see an incredible display of stars, constellations, planets, and more. It's breathtaking.

With so much to see and do, it's easy to see why we love City of Rocks State Park in New Mexico. But, we want to know, do you agree that it is one of the best state parks in the Land of Enchantment? Do you believe another park should receive this honor? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I'd love to hear from you.