New Mexico's State Park System

New Mexico’s state park system, established in the 1930s, preserves a wide range of natural wonders, historic sites and recreational resources. The 34 state parks are located throughout New Mexico, ranging from high-mountain lakes and pine forests of the north, to the Chihuahuan Desert lowlands of the south.

A full range of outdoor recreation opportunities awaits visitors to New Mexico’s diverse state parks. Vast reservoirs provide a full range of water sports, including boating, fishing, water skiing, wind surfing and sailing. Most parks offer picnicking and camping facilities. Some parks include extensive interpretive exhibits to provide park visitors with a better understanding of the state’s spectacular natural resources and to describe the pageant of human events that shaped New Mexico’s history.

Even the most discerning outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs will discover the enchantment of New Mexico’s state parks. After all, where else can visitors catch record-sized trout and bass, walk alongside 100 million year-old duckbill dinosaur tracks, trace the ambush route of Pancho Villa and photograph orchids in the midst of a desert? By balancing resource development for outdoor recreation activities with protection and preservation of New Mexico’s natural treasures, New Mexico’s state parks are dedicated to serving the needs of today’s visitors as well as preserving these treasures for future generations.