At the Valley of Fires Recreation Area, 4 miles west of Carrizozo, you can explore the rocky blackness of a 125-sq-mile lava flow that's 160ft deep in the middle. The paved 0.6-mile nature trail is easy for kids and holds informative signs describing the geology and biology of this volcanic wasteland, or simply hike off-trail, cutting cross-country over the flow. You’ll find first-come first-served campsites and shaded picnic tables near the visitor center.
Valley of Fires Recreation Area
Southeastern New Mexico
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
23.83 MILES
The remote Three Rivers Petroglyph Site showcases over 21,000 petroglyphs, incised six centuries ago by the Jornada Mogollon people onto the flat surfaces…
22.18 MILES
At Smokey Bear Historical Park, in the village of Capitan, 12 miles west of Lincoln, you can see the famous bear's grave and learn tons about forest fires…
Nearby Southeastern New Mexico attractions
1. Smokey Bear Historical Park
22.18 MILES
At Smokey Bear Historical Park, in the village of Capitan, 12 miles west of Lincoln, you can see the famous bear's grave and learn tons about forest fires…
2. Three Rivers Petroglyph Site
23.83 MILES
The remote Three Rivers Petroglyph Site showcases over 21,000 petroglyphs, incised six centuries ago by the Jornada Mogollon people onto the flat surfaces…