Valley of Fires Recreation Area
Explore one of the youngest lava flows in the US, a unique geological wonder with a fascinating nature trail and scenic campsites.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid summer heat & flies
Valley of Fires Recreation Area
Best Time
Avoid summer heat & flies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore one of the youngest lava flows in the US, a unique geological wonder with a fascinating nature trail and scenic campsites.
"A REALLY cool spot in the remains of a lava flow, highly recommend the nature walk."
Beat the Flies! 🪰
Visit in cooler months (Oct-Apr) to avoid tiny flies that can be relentless in warmer weather.
Embrace the Desert Sun ☀️
There's no natural shade, so bring sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Malpais Nature Trail
Lava Flow
A paved, 3/4-mile loop showcasing fascinating lava formations, wildlife, and plant life. Informative and accessible.
Lava Flow Exploration
Valley of Fires
Walk directly on one of the youngest lava flows in the continental US, a unique geological wonder.
+1
Scenic Campsites
Campground
Enjoy camping with water and electric hookups, covered picnic tables, and stunning views of the malpais and surrounding plains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Comfort
Plan for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beat the Flies! 🪰
Visit in cooler months (Oct-Apr) to avoid tiny flies that can be relentless in warmer weather.
Embrace the Desert Sun ☀️
There's no natural shade, so bring sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Windy Nights are Fun! 🌬️
Campsites can be windy, especially overnight. Enjoy the unique experience of sleeping through gusts.
Explore Beyond the Trail 🚶♀️
While the paved trail is great, there are opportunities to explore off-trail for a more adventurous experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Beat the Flies! 🪰
Visit in cooler months (Oct-Apr) to avoid tiny flies that can be relentless in warmer weather.
Embrace the Desert Sun ☀️
There's no natural shade, so bring sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Windy Nights are Fun! 🌬️
Campsites can be windy, especially overnight. Enjoy the unique experience of sleeping through gusts.
Explore Beyond the Trail 🚶♀️
While the paved trail is great, there are opportunities to explore off-trail for a more adventurous experience.
Check Dump Station Status ⚠️
Confirm the dump station is operational before your stay, as it may be closed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Valley of Fires for its unique geological formations and the informative nature trail, calling it a 'REALLY cool spot.' The campgrounds are appreciated for their amenities and scenic views, though some note tight turns and a lack of shade. The primary drawback mentioned is the presence of tiny flies during warmer months, leading some to cut their stays short.
"Just stayed one night as we passed through but a REALLY cool spot in the remains of a lava flow. Highly recommend the nature walk. Long spots with 50amp/water for our RV and tow. A bit tight to turn in the campground but navigable. It is on the desert so there is no shade."
Wendy Tate
"Beautiful scenery and stunning lava formations. There is a nice paved trail which about 3/4 mile long and takes you through the lava flows with points of interest and descriptions of the wildlife, plants and the lava flow.
Campgrounds were clean. The gazebos were about 50 feet from the RV site which is not ideal.
There is water and electric on most sites. I gave it 4 stars due to the dump being closed and I didn’t see that anywhere on their reservation website. I recommend visiting in the colder months since there are flies in the hotter months. Thousands of tiny little flies flying into your ears, mouth and eyes which were are relentless. We had reservations for two nights but cut it short. That is how bad the little fruit flies were."
jpass12
"Nice little park right off 380 as you travel east/west across New Mexico. Easy in/out for big rigs but parking for big rigs is limited. The bookstore/visitor center has good info, helpful friendly staff, maps and souvenirs. There was a single, clean bathroom inside. The campsites have a covered Ramada, picnic table and grill. There are sites with pull throughs, electric and water. There’s a dump station available.
The sites and road are paved but not all sites are level. The camping area is on a raised island overlooking the lava flow so it is windy. There’s no natural shade. But the views of the mountains, malpais and plains are gorgeous. I bet sunset and sunsets are amazing. This park is certainly close enough to visit the ski areas in the Lincoln NF, White Sands NP, and more.
The interpretive trail is paved and 3/4 mile long and showcases many interesting features of the flows. The trail is ADA accessible but there are a couple cracks in the pavement. Dogs are welcome."
Nikki Rohde (OutThisDoor)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Valley of Fires Recreation Area is located near Carrizozo, New Mexico, right off Highway 380. It's easily accessible for big rigs and RVs, making it a convenient stop for cross-country travelers. +1
Yes, it's conveniently located near White Sands National Park, Lincoln National Forest ski areas, and other New Mexico attractions, making it a great base for exploration.
Many visitors arrive via RV or campervan as part of a road trip, enjoying the scenic drives through New Mexico.
The town of Carrizozo is nearby and offers basic amenities. Roswell is also within driving distance for more extensive shopping.
Absolutely! It's a perfect stop for a day trip to explore the lava flows and nature trail, especially if you're traveling along Highway 380.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific fees can vary, many recreation areas managed by the BLM have day-use fees. It's always best to check the official BLM website or call ahead for the most current pricing.
For day use, reservations are typically not required. However, for camping, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
The recreation area is generally open year-round during daylight hours for day use. Campground hours may vary, so confirm with the managing agency.
No special permits are generally required for hiking the designated trails within Valley of Fires Recreation Area.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Valley of Fires Recreation Area, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include walking the Malpais Nature Trail, exploring the ancient lava flows, camping, and enjoying the unique desert scenery.
This 3/4-mile paved loop trail offers an accessible way to learn about the lava flow, local flora, and fauna. It's informative and visually striking.
Campgrounds offer paved sites with electric and water hookups, covered picnic tables, and grills. Some sites are pull-throughs, suitable for larger RVs.
Unfortunately, there is very little natural shade in the park due to its desert environment. Be prepared for direct sun exposure.
You might spot various desert wildlife, including bats (especially at night when they hunt flies), lizards, and diverse plant life adapted to the arid conditions.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, casting a warm glow on the red rocks and lava formations. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds.
The Malpais Nature Trail provides excellent vantage points of the lava flow. The campground overlooks also offer stunning panoramic views.
Drone usage is typically regulated in national and state parks. Check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for specific drone policies before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the lava fields and landscapes. A tripod can be useful for sunset and sunrise shots.
Photographing the textures of the lava rock, the resilient desert plants, and the expansive desert sky can yield unique and striking images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Camping here is also a great option for families, providing a unique outdoor experience. Ensure you pack plenty of sun protection and water, as there's no shade. The open spaces and unique landscape offer plenty of room for exploration and imagination.
🚗 RV & Campervan Travelers
While shade is minimal, the stunning views and the unique geological features make it a worthwhile stop. The availability of a dump station is also a plus for longer journeys. Just be mindful of potential wind and pack accordingly.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Visiting during the cooler months (October-April) will enhance the hiking experience, avoiding extreme heat and bothersome insects. The dramatic desert scenery and the geological significance of the area make it a rewarding destination for nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Valley of Fires
Visitors can witness this geological marvel firsthand by exploring the Malpais Nature Trail, a paved, accessible loop that winds through the lava fields. Along the trail, interpretive signs explain the formation of the lava, the types of volcanic rock, and the surprising amount of life that has adapted to this seemingly desolate environment. It's a stark reminder of the dynamic nature of our planet and the resilience of life.
The area offers a unique opportunity to understand volcanic activity and its impact on the landscape. The sheer scale of the lava flow is awe-inspiring, and walking upon it provides a tangible connection to the Earth's fiery past. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in geology or simply seeking a unique natural wonder.
+1Camping and RV Experience
While the campsites offer great views, it's important to note that there is no natural shade in the camping area due to the desert climate. Visitors should come prepared with sun protection. The roads and sites are paved, but some sites may not be perfectly level, requiring a bit of adjustment for RVs. A dump station is available for emptying RV tanks, though it's advisable to confirm its operational status before arrival.
The camping experience here is often described as peaceful, though it can get windy. Some campers have noted the presence of tiny flies during warmer months, but others mention that bats emerge at night, helping to control the insect population. The clean bathrooms and showers add to the comfort of the stay, making it an excellent base for exploring the region.
Wildlife and Flora
During the day, visitors might spot various desert reptiles and insects. However, the evenings bring a different kind of wildlife activity. Bats are known to inhabit the area and emerge at dusk to feed on insects, including the tiny flies that can be bothersome during warmer months. This natural pest control is a fascinating aspect of the local ecosystem.
The presence of life in such a seemingly harsh environment is a testament to nature's adaptability. Observing the interplay between the volcanic landscape and the living organisms that call it home offers a unique educational and awe-inspiring experience for visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit