Activities in New Mexico State Parks

Try something dynamic and new at a park near you! Parks are open for kayaking, fishing, birding, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and special events for all ages.

Camping

One of the best ways to experience a state park is is by camping under the stars. Different camping opportunities are available and whether you like to roll out your sleeping bag or curl up in your RV, state parks has it all.

For more info on Camping click here.

Birding

For a growing number of people, birding and wildlife viewing is a great adventure. State parks are great settings to observe the unique wildlife and birds in our state.

For more info on Birding click here.

Boating

With lakes and rivers, New Mexico is the place to find your adventure whether it be motorboating, sailing, kayaking, rafting or canoeing.

For more info on Boating click here.

Fishing

Fishing, of all varieties, is one of the most popular activities at NM State Parks. Twenty-four parks have ponds, streams, rivers or lakes, providing a variety of different fishing experiences. From a lazy afternoon casting for pan-fish to a high-energy adventure of fishing for 40-inch tiger muskie, your State Parks have a lot to offer.

For more info on Fishing click here.

Horseback Riding & Facilities

Fishing, of all varieties, is one of the most popular activities at NM State Parks. Twenty-four parks have ponds, streams, rivers or lakes, providing a variety of different fishing experiences. From a lazy afternoon casting for pan-fish to a high-energy adventure of fishing for 40-inch tiger muskie, your State Parks have a lot to offer.

For a park by park break out click here.

Hunting in State Parks

State Parks has designated hunting areas and/or properties that border approved hunting lands in New Mexico.

For more info on hunting click here.

Pets in Parks

Domesticated pets are welcome, but policy states they must remain on a leash at all times, even in water. For more information call the park directly. For Map and Park listings click here.

The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park does not allow pets in the park (except service animals.) You can however park in the RGNC parking lot for access to the the city of Albuquerque’s Paseo Del Bosque trail. Day use fees apply.
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens does not allow pets in the park (except service animals.)

Scuba Diving

The following parks allow scuba and/or snorkeling:
Bottomless Lakes – Scuba diving in Lea Lake
Conchas Lake – Snorkeling and scuba diving are permitted in most areas
Elephant Butte Lake – Scuba diving is permitted.
Navajo Lake – Scuba diving is permitted

Swimming in State Parks

There are many State Parks that allow you to swim. Make sure to call the park directly for changes in designated waters and seasonal closures. We do not recommend cliff diving as New Mexico’s terrain is very rocky in and out of water. Please remember to always wear your life jackets!

For a list of Parks with swimming click here.

Trails

Hiking a trail is one of the best ways to get to know a park, and 22 of our 34 parks have established trail systems. Whether you are interested in an easy and quiet nature hike or if you want a more adventurous experience, hit the trail in a State Park. 

For more info on Trails and Hiking click here

Winter Activities

Most parks are open year round creating opportunities for winter recreation. Snowshoeing, tubing, and ice-fishing are just some of the things to do during the winter season. Please note, if you are interested in Ice Fishing there is a mandated thickness of 9 inches of ice before the park opens up for the seasonal fishing.
Bluewater Lake – Ice-Fishing
Eagle Nest Lake – Ice-Fishing, Snow Kiting or Kite Sledding, Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing
Fenton Lake – Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing
Hyde Memorial – Tubing, Cross County Skiing
Sugarite Canyon – Ice-Fishing