Formed of volcanic ash welded together 30 million years ago, then sculpted by wind and water into rows of monolithic blocks, these incredible rock formations give City of Rocks its name. New hiking trails and a new public night sky observatory add to this unique destination.

Rock Residence
Rock formations like those at the park exist in only 6 other places in the world.  Imaginative visitors may see the rock formations as a small city with houses, chimneys, courtyards and streets.

Ancient Paths
Until 1200 A.D., Mimbres Indians roamed this area, leaving arrowheads and pottery shards as evidence of their culture.  Spanish conquistadors carved crosses into the rocks.

Sample the Southwest
The park's landscape harbors ungrazed and recovered Chihuahuan grassland.  Mule deer, antelope, javelinas and jackrabbits can be seen here.

First State Parks Observatory

City of Rocks was first to receive an observatory in the Division. The observatory consists of a 12’ x 16’ building with a roll-off roof and is permanently equipped with a 14" Meade LX-200.  The entire facility is solar-powered and will include a 20-inch monitor, which will enable many visitors to simultaneously view the jewels in the night sky, as images are transmitted through the telescope. Click here to find out more about upcoming star parties.

Getting There
To get to City of Rocks State Park from Deming, take US 180 northwest 24 miles; then go northeast on NM 61 for 4 miles to the park access road.