Clayton Lake
Dinosaur Track hike Join us on an exciting journey through time as we explore the incredible dinosaur footprints left millions of years ago! View the footsteps of giants and uncover the secrets of the prehistoric past. A short slide show at the Visitor Center will take place before the hike. 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: Mark Funk 575-374-8808

Clayton Lake
Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower viewing On May 3rd the meteor shower should be visible, though it may not be at its peak intensity. For optimal viewing, we will meet at the Observatory, a dark, open area with a clear view of the sky. The hours between midnight and dawn are your best bet for spotting meteors however, our program will be held 10 to 11 PM. Remember to bring a blanket or reclining chair for comfort, early May be quite chilly! 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: Mark Funk 575-374-8808

Clayton Lake
Useful Knots for Camping Calling all tent campers! If you’ve ever struggled with ropes while setting up camp, 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, 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: Mark Funk 575-374-8808

Clayton 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 up close. 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 near 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: Mark Funk 575-868-2270

Clayton Lake
Useful Knots for camping Calling all tent campers! If you’ve ever struggled with ropes while setting up camp, this is your chance to learn a few simple knots that will make your outdoor adventure smoother and more enjoyable. Join us at the playground area 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! Come tie it all together with us! 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: Mark Funk 575-374-8808

Clayton Lake
Fish Printing In this craft-style workshop, kids can create their very own fish prints using a cool art technique called "gyotaku" – the traditional Japanese way of printing fish! We also look at the different species of Fish in New Mexico. You don't need to be an expert artist to enjoy this fun and easy activity. Wear old clothing - you may get dirty. The program will be held near the Visitor Center. 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: Mark Funk 575-374-8808

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

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