New Mexico
Nature|National & State Parks

There’s An Awesome Rock Ranch Hiding In New Mexico And You’ll Want To Visit

Rockhound State Park in New Mexico offers rock collecting, hiking, and camping opportunities.

Published Mar 24, 2018

Written by 

Monica Spencer

Children seem to be natural rockhounds and it's not difficult to see why. Rocks come in all textures, shapes, colors, patterns, and some even have a translucence or a hint of sparkle. In honor of rock collectors of all ages, we're going to check out one cool state park here in New Mexico that not only has some pretty views but also some pretty rocks that you can take home.

This is Rockhound State Park, named in honor of rockhounds—or amateur rock collectors—of all ages. The park is located a short drive from Deming near the Little Florida Mountains.

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New Mexico State Parks/Facebook

The park is known for its lovely views of the landscape but also for some sweet rock hunting opportunities.

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Rich Luhr/Flickr

No matter your age, you can find all kinds of intriguing rocks. Visitors have noted finding granite, quartz, jasper, and more! You could easily spend an entire day here hunting for rocks that strike your fancy.

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Noelle O/TripAdvisor

With all the pretty rocks that can be found here, just be sure to look before you reach! This tarantula, though completely harmless, looks pretty creepy.

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Michelle W/TripAdvisor

In addition to searching for all kinds of rocks, you'll also find hiking trails, a picnic area, and even a campground.

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New Mexico State Parks/Facebook

Have you ever visited this state park? What was your experience like?

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John Fowler/Flickr

Rockhound State Park is located at 9880 Stirrup Road, about 7 miles southeast of Deming. You can find details about the hours of operation, park announcements, and more by visiting the New Mexico State Parks website.

Want to check out another cool state park here in New Mexico? Read about the cool things you'll find at Clayton Lake State Park in The Incredibly Unique State Park You'll Only Find In New Mexico.

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Nature|National & State Parks

Explore One of New Mexico’s Cleanest Lakes at Brantley Lake State Park

Published Sep 27, 2024

Written by 

Melissa Mahoney

Throughout New Mexico, lakes and reservoirs dot the landscape like oases in the desert. Because that is exactly what they are — oases. These slices of paradise provide a way to escape the heat and participate in recreation that can only be done in or on the water. Located just to the north of Carlsbad, you can find a lake that is one of the cleanest lakes in New Mexico. This is Brantley Lake, and it's one you may want to visit for some outdoor fun and relaxation.

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Home to Brantley Lake, the southernmost lake in New Mexico, Brantley Lake State Park provides a wide range of outdoor activities for you outdoor enthusiasts out there! With two boat ramps, you can launch your motorized or non-motorized vessel like a canoe, kayak, or sailboat. Waterskiing is a popular activity here as well.

Then, of course, you can go swimming. In a clean body of water like Brantley Lake, this lake found along the Pecos River is certainly inviting! Don't forget to bring a swimsuit with you.

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David Warner/AllTrails

For those of you looking to camp, there are 51 developed campsites, three of which have hookups. And if you're looking for a lakeside campsite, well, you're in luck because there is primitive shoreline camping available! How incredible would it be to wake up right next to the pristine Brantley Lake and jump right in for a swim first thing in the morning? Or how about casting a line to catch some fish? Sounds like heaven to me!

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Brantley Lake

Of course, you don't have to jump in the lake or take a boat ride to enjoy it. For one, there are 2.6 miles of trails for scenic hiking. Picnicking is another wonderful option for those looking for a relaxing place to eat with a view. And who wouldn't want to take in views of a lovely lake like Brantley Lake?

For those of you who love wildlife and birdwatching, grab your binoculars and your camera and head out to Brantley Lake State Park and see what you can find. Different bird species can be found throughout the year so multiple trips may be in order!

For outdoor recreation and one of the cleanest lakes in New Mexico, you must visit Brantley Lake State Park. To learn more and to make a camping reservation, visit the New Mexico EMNRD website.

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Nature|National & State Parks

The Breathtaking Small Town State Park In New Mexico That We Can’t Stop Thinking About

Published Aug 9, 2024

Written by 

Melissa Mahoney

Certain places can feel like an oasis, like the aptly named Oasis State Park. This small-town state park in New Mexico is a serene spot for an afternoon with all it has to offer. Despite its diminutive size of 193 acres in the town of Portales, there's so much to do here including fishing, hiking, and even camping. So, get your backpacks ready for a nature adventure at this New Mexico state park we can't stop thinking about.

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Take a drive to the small town of Portales and discover a hidden gem park you'll quickly fall in love with. This is Oasis State Park and you can find it at 1891 Base Line in Portales.

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M J/TripAdvisor

Although it's size is less than 200 acres, it packs a punch when it comes to recreation and sheer beauty. I think we can see why it's called Oasis State Park as it is, indeed, an oasis!

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New Mexico State Parks/Facebook

Throughout the park, you'll find cottonwood trees that provide shade to hikers and mountain bikers along the trails.

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M J/TripAdvisor

And then there's the lake where you can spend time fishing. You may also choose to have a picnic by the water. However, swimming and wading are not allowed here.

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stacy l/TripAdvisor

For those who wish to camp, there are 29 campsites, some of which may be reserved online. There are a handful of sites that do not require a reservation.

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Bob Palin/TripAdvisor

As for campground amenities, there are restrooms with running water as well as showers and vault toilets. There's also a group picnic shelter, a dump station, and a playground.

If you're here for a day trip and have the time, stick around for a gorgeous sunset. What a fantastic way to end a day at Oasis State Park!

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biker4thelord/TripAdvisor

Are you ready for a day or a weekend adventure at Oasis State Park? Do you have another favorite small-town state park in New Mexico? Tell us about it in the comments! To learn more about Oasis State Park, check out the New Mexico EMNRD website.

If you plan on camping at Oasis State Park and need new gear, take a look at our list of camping must-haves.

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