Area Recreation

Carson National Forest– The Carson National Forest is one of five National Forests in New Mexico. The National Forests are America’s “great outdoors,” here to serve the American people at work and play! Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.5 million acres covered by the Carson National Forest. Elevations rise from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico. More information https://www.fs.usda.gov/carson

Eagle Nest Lake State Park– Located on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, Eagle Nest Lake is surrounded by the stunning scenery of the high mountains of the Moreno Valley. This lake is regularly stocked with trout and salmon. Anglers can fish from the banks or by boat and ice fish in the winter. At 8,300 feet in elevation, the park offers a cool retreat from the summer heat for fisherman, boaters, campers, hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. An abundance of animals make Eagle Nest Lake an ideal location for wildlife viewing.
Park Elevation 8,196 ft http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/eaglenestlakestatepark.html

Cimarron State Park- The Cimarron River flows through this narrow, forested canyon, located near Eagle Nest on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. The park offers beautiful views, interesting geology, quiet camping, fly fishing, hiking and equestrian trails. The wildlife viewing opportunities are amazing, as the park sits at the center of the Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area. http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/cimarroncanyonstatepark.html

 Colin Neblett- This property provides hunting and fishing access and habitat for deer, elk, and other wildlife species. It is one of the largest properties owned by the Department. The Colin Neblett consists of tree covered mountains bisected by the Cimarron River canyon. Purchased in 1950 and approximately 33,000 acres  https://www.stateparks.com/colin_neblett_state_wildlife_area_in_new_mexico.html

 Valle Vidal- The Valle Vidal (The Valley of Life) unit of the Carson National Forest was donated to the People of the United States by the Pennzoil Company in 1982. This lush mountain basin, located in the heart of New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains, is home to a magnificent elk herd and other abundant wildlife. The vistas of high peaks, forests, and alpine meadows are breathtaking. With elevations of 7,700-12,584 feet, the plant life is abundant and varied.https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/regions/southwestern/ValleVidal/

NM State Land- STATE TRUST LANDS ARE OFTEN MISUNDERSTOOD IN TERMS OF BOTH THEIR CHARACTER AND THEIR MANAGEMENT. THEY ARE NOT PUBLIC LANDS, BUT ARE INSTEAD THE SUBJECT OF A PUBLIC TRUST CREATED TO SUPPORT THE EDUCATION OF NEW MEXICO’S CHILDREN.

RECREATIONAL ACCESS PERMIT- Recreational access for Hiking and other purposes can be purchased from the Commercial Leasing Division at the cost of $35.00. These permits are valid for one year from the date issued and can be obtained by submitting the completed Recreational Access Permit Application or in person at our main office in Santa Fe. Please read the packet to ensure that your intended use is covered by the permit. http://www.nmstatelands.org/