Spring River Park & Zoo
A free, family-friendly park in Roswell featuring a small zoo, antique carousel, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals more active
Spring River Park & Zoo
Best Time
Animals more active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, family-friendly park in Roswell featuring a small zoo, antique carousel, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
"An outstanding little free zoo, great for toddlers and a needed break from tourist traps."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this gem without breaking the bank. Donations are highly appreciated to support animal care. :moneybag:
🐾 See All the Animals
Animals aren't always visible; multiple visits might be needed. Try early or late for best viewing. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Animal Encounters
Zoo Area
See a variety of animals up close, from farm animals to more exotic species. Animals seem well cared for.
Antique Carousel
Amusement Area
Enjoy a nostalgic ride on a charming antique carousel, a hit with kids and adults alike.
Playgrounds & Picnic Spots
Children's Area
Two playgrounds and ample covered picnic tables make it ideal for a family day out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Family Fun
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this gem without breaking the bank. Donations are highly appreciated to support animal care. :moneybag:
🐾 See All the Animals
Animals aren't always visible; multiple visits might be needed. Try early or late for best viewing. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of covered picnic tables available. Bring your own food for a budget-friendly meal. :sandwich:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking to see all the exhibits and playgrounds. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this gem without breaking the bank. Donations are highly appreciated to support animal care. :moneybag:
🐾 See All the Animals
Animals aren't always visible; multiple visits might be needed. Try early or late for best viewing. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of covered picnic tables available. Bring your own food for a budget-friendly meal. :sandwich:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking to see all the exhibits and playgrounds. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Spring River Park & Zoo is a beloved free attraction in Roswell, praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, playgrounds, and antique carousel. Visitors appreciate the opportunity for budget-friendly entertainment and the chance to see animals up close. However, some reviews mention inconsistent animal visibility and a run-down appearance in certain areas, with one visitor describing a traumatic experience due to perceived neglect.
"It's free. Small. But has some fun animals. Only took 2 grown adults about 15 minutes to walk through. Definitely a great way to take some kids out for free entertainment. But consider donating to help keep these animals healthy."
Christina Phillips
"This is an outstanding little free zoo. Parking is close, and there are quite a few animals within a short walk. I think it would be well worth your time if you're in the area. It also gives you a needed break from the tourist traps in the area."
Chris Winnett
"Great little small town gem. I recommend visiting. Animals seem well cared for even if the property is run down and they are close to you while viewing."
Kristen Knapp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Spring River Park & Zoo is located in Roswell, New Mexico. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. For specific directions, use your preferred GPS navigation app.
Information on public transportation options to Spring River Park & Zoo can be limited. It's best to check with local Roswell transit authorities for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
The park is relatively small and features paved paths, making it easy to navigate on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking between animal enclosures and play areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Spring River Park & Zoo offers free admission, making it a great budget-friendly option for families. Donations are encouraged to help maintain the park and care for the animals.
Operating hours can vary, and it's advisable to check the official park website or local listings for the most current information. Some visitors suggest animals are not out regularly, so timing your visit might be beneficial.
Absolutely! Donations are greatly appreciated and help ensure the health and well-being of the animals. Look for donation boxes on-site or inquire about other ways to contribute.
While the park itself is free, there may be a small fee for rides on the antique carousel. It's recommended to have some quarters on hand for this attraction.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo features a variety of animals, including farm animals and some more exotic species. Visitors have noted that not all animals are visible on every visit, so patience is key.
Yes, there are playgrounds available for children. One playground was noted as being blocked off during a recent visit, so check availability upon arrival.
Many visitors find Spring River Park & Zoo to be great for toddlers due to its manageable size and free admission. The carousel and animal viewing can be engaging for little ones.
Yes, the park offers plenty of covered picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic.
While the animals are generally seen as well-cared for, some reviews mention the property can appear run-down. Roswell experienced flooding in October 2024, and some areas may still be in recovery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options within Spring River Park & Zoo are typically limited. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to spend a few hours enjoying the park.
Yes, bringing your own food is a great idea. There are numerous covered picnic tables available, making it easy to enjoy a packed meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The antique carousel offers a classic, nostalgic photo opportunity. Animal enclosures can provide unique shots, though lighting might vary. The overall park setting also offers pleasant backdrops.
Getting clear photos of the animals can sometimes be challenging as they may not always be visible or in ideal positions. Visiting during active hours and being patient can help.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While animal visibility can vary, the combination of animals, play areas, and picnic spots makes it a great way to spend a few hours without spending a dime. 💰 Budget Travelers
It's a perfect way to experience a local attraction without a hefty price tag, and donations are always welcome to support the park's mission. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Animal Collection
Despite some reviews mentioning that certain enclosures appear empty, the animals that are visible are generally described as being well-cared for.
For the best experience, consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. This not only increases the chances of seeing more active animals but also provides a more comfortable environment for visitors. Remember that donations are crucial for the park's upkeep and the animals' welfare.
Family Fun and Playtime
Complementing the playgrounds are numerous covered picnic tables scattered throughout the park. This makes Spring River Park & Zoo an ideal destination for a leisurely family picnic. Visitors are encouraged to pack their favorite meals and enjoy them in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
The antique carousel is another highlight for families. A small fee, often payable with quarters, grants access to a charming ride that evokes a sense of nostalgia.
This attraction is a particular hit with younger children and adds a touch of classic amusement to the park visit. Overall, the park's amenities are geared towards providing an enjoyable and accessible experience for families with young children.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit