The Land of Enchantment is overflowing with beautiful landscapes, and many of these are the country's greatest state parks. From Bottomless Lakes State Park, to the Rio Grande Nature Center, there is no shortage of nature for New Mexicans. That being said, some of the lesser-known state parks fall under the radar. This state park on our Northern border might be underrated, but with so much to do and see, it's the perfect getaway.
Welcome to Sugarite Canyon State Park!
Most New Mexicans are familiar with our most beautiful state parks like Jemez State Monument or City of Rocks, but this unassuming state park outside of Raton, boarding the Rockies, is the perfect getaway.
This lovely park will have you feeling like you have it all to yourself, despite there being so much to do and see.
The park is adequately shaded by canyon, and lakes are spread throughout including beautiful Lake Maloya.
Outdoor activities include fishing, hunting, boating, hiking, and nearly every other outdoor activity you can think of. There are many trails to hike on, and the Visitor Center even offers guided hikes.
Sugarite is home to a large population of wildlife, so you may see everything from bears to birds and prairie dogs.
Camping is a popular activity as Sugarite offers many campsites with complete hook-ups for RVs and simple dry camping spots. This is the perfect park to stay in for a weekend and experience all it has to offer!
Sugarite Canyon State Park might be lesser-known and way up on our Northern border, but its beauty is all-encompassing and will have you feeling miles away from everything.
Sugarite Canyon State Park is located 6 miles northeast of Raton, New Mexico on the Colorado/New Mexico border off NM-526. The address is: 211 Hwy. 526, Raton, NM.
For more information, you can visit the state parks website right here.
Have you visited this lesser-known state park? What did you think? We’d love to hear about it in the comments, and don’t forget to share photos from your outdoor adventures with us in our New Mexico Nature Lovers Facebook group, or tag us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to be featured!
Did you know that over a million years ago a volcano erupted in New Mexico? What's left behind is amazing, and you can see for yourself.
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