Las Cruces KOA Holiday Local Attractions

Historic Old Mesilla

Mesilla ("Little Tableland") is the premier historical destination in Southern New Mexico. Established around 1848, it has profoundly shaped the economic and cultural landscape of the Mesilla Valley. Step back in time and discover a legacy that includes: 

• The signing of the Gadsden Purchase.
  
• Strategic significance during the Civil War.
  
• A major stop on the legendary Butterfield Overland Stagecoach Trail.
  
• The courthouse where the infamous trial of Billy the Kid took place. 
  

By the 1880s, Mesilla was a vibrant social hub, and today it remains a prominent jewel in the rich history of the Southwest.

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White Sands National Park

At the northern end of the Chihuahuan Desert lies the mountain-ringed Tularosa Basin. Rising from the heart of this basin is one of the world's great natural wonders—the glistening, gypsum-white dunes of White Sands National Park.

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White Sands Missile Range Museum and Missile Park

Discover the birthplace of America's missile and space activity! This free museum features an extensive collection of historic hardware and research exhibits. 

• Missile Park: A self-guided outdoor walking tour featuring over 50 artifacts, including the WAC Corporal, Loon, Pershing II, and Patriot missiles.
  
• Indoor Exhibits: Trace the history of the Southwest from prehistoric cultures to the dawn of the atomic age and early space exploration.
  
• Admission: Entry is FREE and open to the public.
  
• Important Access Info: Because the museum is located on an active military installation, all adult visitors must present a valid photo ID (such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport) and pass a brief security background check at the Las Cruces Gate Visitor Control Center.
  

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New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum

Celebrate New Mexico's resilient agricultural spirit at this expansive 47-acre interactive museum. 

• A 4,000-Year Legacy: Journey through four millennia of farming and ranching history, from ancient Mogollon pithouses (dating back over 1,300 years) to the cutting-edge technology of today.
  
• Living History: Explore indoor and outdoor exhibits featuring seven breeds of beef cattle, horses, and sheep. Don't miss milking demonstrations and seasonal events like "Cowboy Days."
  
• The Dairy Spot: Discover why New Mexico is a national leader in the dairy industry. Interactive exhibits showcase everything from ice cream making to modern pasteurization, reflecting the state's ranking as 9th in the nation for milk production.
  

575-522-4100

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The Recycled Roadrunner

Want a chance to see Las Cruces' iconic Recycled Roadrunner up close? Standing 20 feet tall and 40 feet long, this massive sculpture was created by artist Olin Calk in 1993 using salvaged materials from a local landfill to promote recycling. Located just 2 miles from the campground at the Scenic Overlook Rest Area, it offers some of the best views of Las Cruces and the Organ Mountains. Directions from the Campground: 

1. From the campground exit, turn left onto Picacho Ave (US-70).
   
2. Merge onto I-10 East.
   
3. As you pass under the Exit 135 underpass, stay in the right lane.
   
4. Take the Rest Stop exit and turn right into the Scenic Overlook Circle. 
   

Returning to the Campground: 

1. Exit the rest area and drive east on I-10 to Exit 139.
   
2. Turn left onto Motel Blvd, go under the overpass, and then turn left to merge back onto I-10 West.
   
3. Take Exit 135 to return to the campground. 
   

Note: The sculpture is only accessible from the eastbound lanes of I-10. It is not lit at night, so visit during daylight hours for the best experience.

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