New Mexico State Parks Calendar of Events
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20 Events in August
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Saturday, August 2
09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Sugarite Canyon
Coffee with a Ranger
Got a Question for a New Mexico State Park Ranger? Get an answer at this Coffee with a Ranger event at Sugarite State Park's Lake Alice Campground on May 24th! We'll discuss events and programs in the park and the surrounding area, or anything you've always wanted to ask a ranger. Coffee and doughnuts (while they last) are served! The event is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Robert Smith 575 445 5607




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Sunday, August 3
09:00 AM - 09:45 AM
Conchas Lake
The use and care of Binoculars
Improve your birding experience with tips and techniques for using and caring for your binoculars. Never used binoculars? We'll show you how! Stop by our playground area at 9:00 AM for an and let the Ranger show you some simple "Tricks of the Trade". The event is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Ricarlos Glenn 575-868-2270




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Sunday, August 3
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Conchas Lake
Useful Knots for camping
If you're heading out for a tent camping adventure, chances are you'll rely on ropes to help set up camp. But why settle for just tying things together any old way? Mastering a few simple knots can take your camping experience to the next level, making setup smoother, more secure, and a lot more enjoyable. Come learn the ropes (literally) and make your next trip a breeze! Starts at the parking lot near the boat dock. The program is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies for all vehicles. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Ricarlos Glenn 575-868-2270




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Monday, August 4
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Mesilla Valley Bosque
Monthly Bird ID Walking Tour
Enjoy a guided walk and learn how to identify various resident and migratory bird species from a local expert birder and member of the Mesilla Valley Audubon Society. Plan on walking approx, a 2-mile round trip on an easy-to-moderate trail. The program is free, but regular Park Entrance Fees apply for all vehicles. New Mexico Residents: $5 Out-of-State Residents: $10 Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Alex Mares 575-523-4398




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Saturday, August 9
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Clayton Lake
Environmental Science Merit Badge
Designed to meet most of the requirements of the Environmental Science Merit Badge, however some requirements will not be completed in class, such as 3c. With outside work, the participants can finish with the counselor by email. Bring a sack lunch, no food available on site. The program is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit. Pre-registration through Parent's Email is mandatory. Email robert.smith@emnrd.nm.gov to sign up. Space is limited to 12
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Mark Funk 575-374-8808




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Saturday, August 9
09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Sugarite Canyon
Coffee with a Ranger
Do you have a Question for a New Mexico State Park Ranger? Get an answer at this Coffee with a Ranger event at Sugarite State Park's Lake Alice Campground on May 24th! We'll discuss events and programs in the park and the surrounding area, or anything you've always wanted to ask a ranger. Coffee and doughnuts (while they last) are served! The event is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Robert Smith 575 445 5607




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Sunday, August 10
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Clayton Lake
Useful Knots for camping
Calling all tent campers, before you leave on this Sunday morning - this is your chance to learn a few simple knots that will make your outdoor adventure smoother and more enjoyable. Join us at the Shelter for a hands-on session where we’ll teach you the essential knots every camper should know. Whether you’re securing your tent, hanging a tarp, or just getting creative with camp setups, these easy-to-master techniques will save you time and frustration on your next trip! The program is free for NM Residents and the regular Park Entrance Fee applies for out-of-state residents. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Mark Funk 575-374-8808




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Saturday, August 16
08:00 PM - 09:30 PM
Leasburg Dam
STAR PROGRAM
Star show begins at SUNDOWN. Each month we open the Leasburg Dam Observatory to the public. Members of the Astronomical Society of Las Cruces operate a large 16" telescope as well as other telescopes just outside the observatory. Through these telescopes, you can see amazing deep space objects, such as: globular star clusters, planetary nebulae, distant planets and far away galaxies!
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: any park staff 575-524-4068




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Saturday, August 16
07:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Oasis
Oasis Star Party
Join the Clovis Astronomy Club for a night of star gazing on August 16, 2025. This will take place in the visitor center parking lot at dusk. Regular entrance fees apply for non-annual permit holders. All ages are invited to attend. No pets will be allowed at this event. Bring your binoculars, telescopes, red lens flashlights, etc. if you have them and enjoy a night of learning under the stars. **NO animals allowed at this event**
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Oasis State Park 575-356-5331




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Saturday, August 16
09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Sugarite Canyon
Coffee with a Ranger
Got a Question for a New Mexico State Park Ranger? Get an answer at this Coffee with a Ranger event at Sugarite State Park's Lake Alice Campground on May 24th! We'll discuss events and programs in the park and the surrounding area, or anything you've always wanted to ask a ranger. Coffee and doughnuts (while they last) are served! The event is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Robert Smith 575 445 5607




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Sunday, August 17
07:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Leasburg Dam
20 target 3D shoot
Join us at Leasburg Dam State Park for a 3-D archery fun shoot/ASA Qualifier shoot including 20 targets!! New Mexico residents $5.00. Non-residents $10 or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Buffy 575-373-5304




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Saturday, August 23
11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Cimarron Canyon
Clear Creek trail hike
Join a park ranger for a scenic adventure on the Clear Creek Trail! This 4-mile "Out-and-Back" hike offers an unforgettable journey through New Mexico’s stunning Cimarron Canyon State Park. As you follow the winding path along Clear Creek, you’ll pass through lush forest landscapes and navigate a few fun, rocky stretches—perfect for a bit of outdoor exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for two picturesque waterfalls. Be sure to pack water, a lunch, and your camera—you’ll want to capture the beauty of this family-friendly trail! A steady incline makes this trail a challenge! The Clear Creek Trailhead is located at Signpost 292 along U.S. Route 64 in Cimarron Canyon. The program is free but the regular Park Entrance fee applies for every vehicle. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Jordan Mitchell 575 377 1594




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Saturday, August 23
09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Cimarron Canyon
Discover the Birds of Prey
Join us for an adventure into the world of raptors. See taxidermized exhibits and listen to the stories of their abilities in flight and incredible hunting prowess of these magnificent creatures. Find out the role that they play in their ecological niche. Discover the conservation efforts that have taken place and how you can help protect these incredible birds. Program will be at the Visitor Center/Tolby Campground. The program is free for NM Residents and the regular Park Entrance Fee applies for out-of-state residents. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Jordan Mitchell 575 377 1594




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Saturday, August 23
09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Sugarite Canyon
Coffee with a Ranger
Got a Question for a New Mexico State Park Ranger? Get an answer at this Coffee with a Ranger event at Sugarite State Park's Lake Alice Campground. We'll discuss events and programs in the park and the surrounding area, or anything you've always wanted to ask a ranger. Coffee and doughnuts (while they last) are served! The event is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Robert Smith 575 445 5607




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Sunday, August 24
07:00 PM - 07:45 PM
Eagle Nest Lake
Discover the Birds of Prey
Join us for an adventure into the world of raptors. See taxidermized exhibits and listen to the stories of their abilities in flight and incredible hunting prowess of these magnificent creatures. Find out the role that they play in their ecological niche. Discover the conservation efforts that have taken place and how you can help protect these incredible birds. Program will be at the Visitor Center. The event is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Jordan Mitchell 575-377-1594




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Sunday, August 24
09:00 AM - 09:45 AM
Eagle Nest Lake
Claws, Hides and Horns
Join us for an exciting and educational program presented by our Park Rangers! Discover the fascinating world of local wildlife and learn how animals like Mountain Lions, Bears, and Bobcats adapt to survive and thrive in our unique environment. Get an up-close look at hides from these incredible creatures and explore their remarkable survival strategies. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just curious about the wildlife in our area, this program is a must-see! Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the animals that roam our local landscapes.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Robert Smith 575-445-5607




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Saturday, August 30
10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Conchas Lake
Car Festival
Join us for the Inaugural Car Festival at Conchas Lake State Park on August 30th, 2025, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Stroll down memory lane with the classics! The event is free. Regular entrance fee applies for NM residents ($5) and out-of-state visitors ($10), or display your NM State Parks Annual Pass.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Ricarlos Glenn 575-868-2270




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Saturday, August 30
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Leasburg Dam
Bird Tour
Please join us on a guided bird identification tour. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Leasburg Dam State Park trails with a Mesilla Valley Audubon Society bird identification expert. They will teach you how to improve your bird identification skills. Bring binoculars, comfortable hiking shoes and dress for the weather. WE MEET at 8 AM - AT THE VISITOR CENTER.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: any park staff 575-524-4068




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Saturday, August 30
06:00 PM - 06:30 PM
Sugarite Canyon
What's That? It is a Bat!
You may see a small figure dance through the night skies here at the park. Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it is a bat- The only mammal that flies! Come to the program and hear of the myths, legends and facts of the bat. Starts at the Visitor Center. The program is free, but regular Park Entrance Fee applies for all vehicles. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Robert Smith 575-44- 5607




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Sunday, August 31
11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Sugarite Canyon
Circle the Lake Hike
Join us for a pleasant 5-mile walk in the woods with the Park Ranger around Lake Moyola and a short hike across the Colorado wildlife management area. Bring good walking shoes, a walking stick (if needed), water, a sack lunch, a camera, and enthusiasm! The program is free, but the regular Park Entrance Fee applies for all vehicles. Please bring exact cash or check or display a valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass/permit.
Fees: Regular Entrance Fee
Contact: Robert Smith 575 445 5607




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