City of Rocks State Park New Mexico
Explore a surreal landscape of towering volcanic rocks, perfect for climbing, hiking, and unparalleled stargazing in a dark sky preserve.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
City of Rocks State Park New Mexico
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a surreal landscape of towering volcanic rocks, perfect for climbing, hiking, and unparalleled stargazing in a dark sky preserve.
"A MUST VISIT place with such magic here that it’s always worth the visit."
🎒 Pack Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating rocky terrain and avoiding sharp goatheads. :athletic_shoe:
🌌 Embrace the Dark Sky
Bring a telescope or camera for incredible stargazing opportunities. :star2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Rock Formations
Throughout the park
Explore a natural playground of towering volcanic rocks, perfect for climbing, bouldering, and hide-and-seek.
Stargazing Paradise
Dark sky areas
Experience incredibly dark skies, ideal for amateur astronomers and anyone wanting to marvel at the Milky Way.
Solar System Walk
Visitor Center area
A unique educational trail where each step represents millions of miles, offering a scaled model of the solar system.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Campsite Early
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
My gf and I are spending a few days at Faywood for her bday. Any nearby adventures you'd suggest?
🎒 Pack Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating rocky terrain and avoiding sharp goatheads. :athletic_shoe:
🌌 Embrace the Dark Sky
Bring a telescope or camera for incredible stargazing opportunities. :star2:
My overnight trip to the City of Rocks
City of Rocks State Park
💧 Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is available, but carry extra, especially during hikes. :droplet:
🚗 Drive Carefully
Gravel roads can be bumpy; take care when backing into campsites. :car:
A heart and a natural cairn. From the City of Rocks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Sturdy Footwear
Essential for navigating rocky terrain and avoiding sharp goatheads. :athletic_shoe:
🌌 Embrace the Dark Sky
Bring a telescope or camera for incredible stargazing opportunities. :star2:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is available, but carry extra, especially during hikes. :droplet:
🚗 Drive Carefully
Gravel roads can be bumpy; take care when backing into campsites. :car:
💡 Bring a Flashlight
Vault toilets lack lights, making a flashlight crucial after dark. :flashlight:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise City of Rocks State Park for its unique geological formations, incredible dark skies perfect for stargazing, and the adventurous playground-like environment for exploring. Many appreciate the privacy of non-electric campsites. Some note the wind can be a factor and advise caution regarding sharp goathead thorns.
"This was our first experience camping at City of Rocks. We had sites 20-25. 21-24 are rather close to each other. 20 is elevated and fairly separated from the other sites, but you have to hike a good 500 feet in from the parking spot. The rocks and bouldering are the main draw here, as well as the dark skies for stargazing. Other than the wind, November is a great time to visit. Be aware that the gate is locked at 9 PM each night. Drinking water was available during our visit, and the visitor's center has ice, and many other items you may have forgotten. Deming and Silver City are the closest towns nearby, about 30 minutes away for each."
Jesse Yates
"Amazing place to visit. There are non-electric campsites among the rocks or electric campsites in a row outside of the rocks. The electric sites are typical campground with not much space between. The non-electric are spread out and most are quite private. This is is a hide and go seek paradise. Its fun exploring all the formations, nooks and crannies. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We stayed one night but could have easily stayed two. Check in at 4pm with checkout at 2pm gives plenty of time to explore the rocks. There is a separate set of rocks up on a lookout hill that you can hike to or drive to. There is a picnic table at the top with a parking lot. There are also several trails in the area for those staying longer than overnight. Sunset was amazing. Those camped along the Westside got an amazing view. We camped in site six which was interior to some rocks. A small trailer will fit but take care in backing in. Note that the bathrooms are not close to most sites. The visitors center has showers which were extremely busy in the morning even though the night we stayed there were not that many campers. Probably about 1/4 full on non-electric sites. The electric sites were completely full. Apparently they like the public bathroom better than their own."
Greg Hancock
"Smaller park. I feel it's more designed for campers than anything. As you can pull your camper into any of the areas to stay so when your walking around you feel your intruding on someone's space just to get a look at the rocks. But if you're in the area, neat rock formations to view. Also have a planet walk where you start at the sun and hike out and find the markers of each plant. Mercury - Mars are right there at the beginning across from the windmill and that's when you would start your hike to locate the others to get an idea of how far apart they are. I believe it says each step, approx 2 feet equates to 6 million miles. So, that's fun to experience."
Roberta Peek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located off NM-152, approximately 30 minutes from Deming and Silver City. GPS coordinates are helpful, and it's about an hour's drive from either town. :car:
Public transport options are very limited in this rural area. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for reaching and exploring the park. :bus:
Deming and Silver City are the closest towns, both about a 30-minute drive away. They offer amenities like grocery stores and gas stations. :shopping_cart:
The drive along NM-152 offers some scenic views, especially as you approach the park. Consider combining your visit with a trip to Faywood Hot Springs or La Esperanza Winery. :wine_glass:
From Las Cruces, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. From El Paso, Texas, it's roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive. :road:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a day-use fee for visitors. Camping fees are separate and vary based on the type of campsite (electric vs. non-electric). :moneywithwings:
The park is generally open year-round. However, the main gate is locked at 9 PM each night, so plan your entry and exit accordingly. :clock1:
Absolutely! It's highly recommended to reserve campsites, especially electric sites, as they fill up quickly. You can usually book through the New Mexico State Parks reservation system. :computer:
Check-in is typically at 4 PM, and check-out is at 2 PM. This provides ample time for exploration on both your arrival and departure days. :calendar:
New Mexico State Parks may offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, or those with disabilities. It's best to check the official New Mexico State Parks website for current offerings. :discount:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main draws are exploring the unique rock formations, bouldering, hiking, and incredible stargazing. The Solar System Walk is also a unique educational experience. :hiking_boot:
Yes, there are several trails, including the Hydra Trail and Table Mountain Trail mentioned by visitors. The park is also great for informal exploration among the rocks. :map:
Yes, kids love climbing and exploring the rocks, which act as a natural playground and maze. The Solar System Walk is also engaging for children. :child:
You can choose from non-electric campsites nestled among the rocks for privacy, or electric campsites in a more traditional campground setting. :tent:
The visitor center offers exhibits, souvenirs, ice, and other necessities. It also has showers, which can be very busy in the mornings. :shower:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants within the park itself. You'll need to bring your own food or dine in the nearby towns of Deming or Silver City. :forkandknife:
Campfires are generally permitted in designated fire rings, but always check for current fire restrictions, especially during dry seasons. Firewood can be purchased at the visitor center. :fire:
Since dining options are limited, plan for meals you can easily prepare at your campsite, such as grilled items, sandwiches, or pre-made dishes. :sandwich:
Yes, picnic tables are available throughout the park, including at the top of a lookout hill with a parking lot. :picnic_table:
The closest major grocery stores are in Deming and Silver City, both about 30 minutes away. Walmart is also available in Deming. :grocery_store:
📸 📸 Photography
The rock formations themselves offer endless photographic opportunities. The sunset views from the west side are spectacular, and the night sky is perfect for astrophotography. :camera:
Yes, it's renowned for its dark skies, making it an excellent location for capturing the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. :moon:
Early morning and late afternoon light provide the most dramatic shadows and colors on the rocks. Midday sun can be harsh. :sunrise:
Drone usage is typically regulated in state parks. Check the official New Mexico State Parks regulations regarding drone operation before flying. :drone:
The lookout hill offers a panoramic view of the park. Exploring the various nooks and crannies among the rocks will also yield unique photographic perspectives. :eye:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the Solar System Walk, which provides an educational and fun way for children to learn about space. The visitor center staff are often friendly and can offer insights or scavenger hunts. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure kids wear sturdy shoes to navigate the rocky terrain safely. :child:
🏕️ Campers
Campfires are usually permitted (check restrictions), and firewood is available for purchase. The visitor center has showers, but they can be busy. The dark skies make camping here a truly magical experience, perfect for enjoying s'mores under the stars. :campfire:
🚶♀️ Hikers and Explorers
Wear appropriate footwear for uneven and rocky ground. The park is relatively small, making it ideal for day trips or a weekend of exploration. The unique geology provides a constant sense of discovery as you wander through the 'city' of rocks. :hiking_boot:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Unique Rock Formations
Many visitors find joy in the 'hide-and-seek' aspect of exploring the rocks, discovering hidden nooks and crannies. The formations provide a sense of wonder and adventure, making it a memorable experience for all ages. Some of the formations are quite large, offering challenging climbs for experienced adventurers, while others are more accessible for casual exploration. The sheer variety of shapes and sizes ensures that no two views are exactly alike.
For those interested in the geology, the park's visitor center offers exhibits that explain the formation of these unique rocks. Understanding the volcanic origins adds another layer of appreciation to the landscape. The park's designation as a dark sky preserve also means that the rocks are dramatically silhouetted against the night sky, offering a completely different, yet equally stunning, photographic and viewing experience.
Camping and Amenities
For those needing electricity and water, electric campsites are available in a more traditional campground layout. While these sites offer more convenience, they are typically closer together and may not offer the same level of privacy as the non-electric sites. Regardless of your choice, most campsites come equipped with a picnic table. The visitor center is a hub for amenities, offering showers (which can be busy in the morning), ice, and a small selection of forgotten necessities.
It's crucial to note that reservations are highly recommended, especially for electric sites, as they tend to fill up quickly. The park's gate is locked at 9 PM, so plan your arrival accordingly. Be prepared for the presence of 'goatheads' (sharp thorns) around the campsites and trails, and wear appropriate footwear to avoid discomfort.
Stargazing and Dark Sky Preservation
Visitors can enjoy the night sky from various vantage points within the park. The Solar System Walk is particularly interesting at night, as you can contemplate the vastness of space while standing under a canopy of stars. Many campers report being amazed by the sheer number of stars visible and the clarity of the constellations. It's an ideal location for amateur astronomers, photographers, or anyone simply wanting to reconnect with the cosmos.
To make the most of your stargazing experience, consider bringing a telescope or a good camera with a tripod. Even with a smartphone, you can capture impressive night sky photos if you use the right settings and a stable surface. The park sometimes hosts special stargazing events or talks, so check the park's schedule if you're planning a visit around celestial phenomena.
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