New Mexico has no shortage of beautiful places. A stroll through any wild part of the state or park shows off the state’s allure, ranging from lush mountainsides to stark desert views. If you’re on the lookout for lesser-known locations that illuminate New Mexico’s lovely side, check out our list of underrated state parks to visit in New Mexico. You're bound to be impressed by the options!

1. Bottomless Lakes State Park

This state park is a short drive from Roswell and is named for its sinkhole lakes. Sorry to burst your bubble but these aren’t bottomless; the deepest lake extends down 90 feet. This is a nice spot for water sports and one of the sinkholes is a local swimming spot.

Address: 545 Bottomless Lakes Rd, Roswell, NM 88203

Details: New Mexico State Parks website

2. Cimarron Canyon State Park

Next up on our list of the most underrated state parks to visit in New Mexico is Cimarron Canyon State Park. Located a short distance off the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in northern New Mexico, this is a lovely quiet area. You’ll find beautiful views, lots of hiking trails, and areas for fishing.

Address: 28869 US-64, Eagle Nest, NM 87718

Details: New Mexico State Parks website

3. Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park

Sitting on the banks of the Rio Grande in Las Cruces, Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is a small spot that is rich in wildlife. It is perfect for strolling through the wetlands to spot a variety of birds or simply enjoying a nature walk.

Address: 5000 Calle Del Norte, Las Cruces, NM 88005

Details: New Mexico State Parks website

4. Manzano Mountains State Park

Located about 1.5 hours southeast of Albuquerque, this state park is a remote spot in the Manzano Mountains. You’ll find a small campsite plus miles of trails.

Address: Co Rd B062, Mountainair, NM 87036

Details: New Mexico State Parks website

5. Morphy Lake State Park

Morphy Lake State Park is a small, remote place sitting on the eastern side of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It is currently closed for renovations to the dam here but once it reopens next year, you’ll want to stop by for fishing, canoeing, and other nature activities.

Address: Morphy Lake Road, Mora, NM 87732

Details: New Mexico State Parks website

6. Sugarite Canyon State Park

Sugarite Canyon State Park sits on the grounds of a historic mining camp from the early 1900s here in the Rocky Mountains. You can explore the ruins still standing and hike miles of trails along lakes and creeks.

Address: 160 NM-526, Raton, NM 87740

Details: New Mexico State Parks website

7. Villanueva State Park

Last up on our list of beautiful yet underrated state parks to visit in New Mexico is Villanueva State Park. Villanueva State Park is located about one hour southeast of Santa Fe and is one gorgeous place. It sits along the Pecos River and is filled with cottonwoods and other trees. This place is perfect for hiking, fishing, and camping, plus the kids can enjoy a playground by the campgrounds.

Address: 135 Dodge Dr, Villanueva, NM 87583

Details: New Mexico State Parks website

New Mexico truly is the Land of Enchantment, isn’t it? Do you have a favorite remote spot to visit? Feel free to share it or another one of your favorite state parks to visit in New Mexico in the comments below or on our Facebook page. As always, we'd love to hear from you!

Ready to take a look at a few other wonderful natural spots around the state? If you enjoy stargazing, you may appreciate some of New Mexico’s darkest skies. Read about some places to visit in These Are Some Of The Darkest Places In New Mexico And You’ll Want To Visit. We've also compiled the Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To New Mexico’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes, And More! There's truly something on the list for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.