
Rockhound State Park
Overview
Located on the rugged west slope of the Little Florida Mountains, Rockhound State Park is a favorite for "rockhounds" because of the abundant agates and quartz crystals found there. Scattered throughout the park are rock and mineral specimens of volcanic origin. These treasures range from varieties of jasper, silica minerals, quartz crystals, chalcedony, agate, and common opal. Visitors are allowed to take up to 15 pounds of the rock for their personal collections. Sunsets at the park can be spellbinding, especially from the higher elevation sites. Take a walk through the juniper and mesquite on your way to the botanical garden. There, you can view numerous species of cacti and other desert plants.
Activities
Camping
Rockhound State Park includes a 30-site campground, including both primitive and developed sites with hookups.
Hiking
The hiking trails provide visitors with climbs of varying degrees of difficulty and breathtaking views. A 1.2-mile loop trail provides access to rock collecting areas. Reaching the top, visitors survey the 7,000-foot peaks of the Florida Mountains.
Picnicking
Accessible tables and grills are provided within the park. The Spring Canyon Recreation Area is a day-use area located across the valley in the foothills of the Florida Mountains and includes picnic sites and hiking trails.
RVing
Electrical, sewage, and water hookups are located at the developed sites.
Directions
Driving
To get to Rockhound State Park from Deming, take N.M. 11 south for five miles, and then go east on N.M. 141 for about nine miles.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(575) 546-6182Links
Official URL
http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/PRD/Rockhound.htm- Login or register to post comments
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