Las Cruces KOA Holiday 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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Dripping Springs Natural Area

A true desert oasis, the Dripping Springs Natural Area offers spectacular wildlife viewing and over four miles of easy, well-maintained hiking trails. Located at the base of the majestic Organ Mountains, this preserve features year-round seeping water that supports a diverse ecosystem. Wildlife Spotting: Keep your binoculars ready! You may spot Red-Tailed Hawks, Golden Eagles, Gambel's Quail, Desert Mule Deer, Rock Squirrels, and Coyotes among many other unique desert species.Historical Trails: A must-see hike from the Visitor Center leads to the historic ruins of Major Eugene Van Patten's Mountain Camp. Built in 1872 as a resort, it later served as a tuberculosis sanatorium in the early 1900s. Plan Your Visit:

• Hours: The preserve is open from 8:00 AM to Sunset year-round.
  
• Visitor Center: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas).
  
• Note: Pets are permitted on designated trails but must be on a leash at all times. 
  

Directions (10 miles from Las Cruces): From I-25, take Exit 1. Head east on University Avenue/Dripping Springs Road toward the Organ Mountains. Simply follow the road to its end, where it leads directly into the Natural Area.

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Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument

Established to protect world-class prehistoric, geologic, and biologic resources, this massive monument serves as the breathtaking backdrop to Las Cruces. Explore four distinct areas, each offering a unique desert experience: 

• The Organ Mountains: Famous for their steep, angular rocky spires, these majestic peaks rise to an elevation of 9,000 feet above the Chihuahuan Desert floor.
  
• The Desert Peaks: This rugged terrain includes the Robledo Mountains, Sierra de las Uvas, and the Doña Ana Mountains.
  
• The Potrillo Mountains: Located to the southwest, this area features a dramatic volcanic landscape filled with cinder cones, lava flows, and craters.
  
• The Doña Ana Mountains: A premier destination for outdoor recreation, featuring extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as popular rock-climbing routes. 
  

Dripping Springs Visitor CenterFor the best introduction to the monument, visit the Dripping Springs Visitor Center. 

• Features: Engaging interpretive displays focused on the history and geology of the Organ Mountains.
  
• Location: 10 miles east of I-25 in the Dripping Springs Natural Area. 
  

Directions from I-25: Take Exit 1 (University Avenue/Dripping Springs Rd) and head east toward the mountains. Follow Dripping Springs Road to the very end to reach the Visitor Center and trailheads. Insider Tip: If you are visiting in the spring, the foothills often boast beautiful wildflower blooms! Always remember to carry plenty of water, as high-elevation desert hiking can be strenuous.

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Picacho Peak Recreation Area

Just northwest of the campground lies Picacho Peak, a 4,959-foot volcanic landmark. Formed from rhyolite approximately 35 million years ago, this peak now serves as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering over 15 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. 

• The Summit Hike: A 1.5-mile trail leads directly to the peak, rewarding hikers with spectacular panoramic views of the Mesilla Valley and the Organ Mountains.
  
• Exploring Further: Beyond the summit, the area features expansive canyons and mesa tops perfect for deeper desert exploration. 
  

Directions from the Campground: 

1. Turn right onto Picacho Ave (US-70).
   
2. Turn left at the first stoplight onto Picacho Hills Dr.
   
3. Continue onto Barcelona Ridge Rd for one mile.
   
4. Turn north (right) on Anthem Rd and follow it for one mile to its end.
   
5. Turn north onto Loop Rd (unpaved) and drive 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking lot.
   

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Hiking

Explore the Best Hiking Trails in Las Cruces
Surrounded by the dramatic Organ Mountains and high-desert landscapes, Las Cruces offers a diverse range of hiking opportunities for every skill level. 

Easy & Scenic (Great for Families)

Dripping Springs Trail
A 3-mile round-trip easy-to-moderate hike that leads to historic 19th-century resort ruins and a "weeping" rock wall.
Soledad Canyon (Bar Canyon Trail)
A popular 3-mile loop offering mountain vistas and a seasonal waterfall. This trail is pet-friendly and relatively flat.
La Llorona Park
For a paved experience, this path follows the Rio Grande for several miles, providing a flat surface perfect for strollers, bikes, and casual sunset walks.

Moderate & Rewarding

Pine Tree Loop Trail Head
Located in the Aguirre Springs Recreation Area, this 4.5-mile loop climbs into the ponderosa pines, offering a cooler climate and "jungle-like" greenery compared to the desert floor.
Picacho Mountain
A 1.5-mile trek up a 35-million-year-old volcanic mountain that rewards you with 360-degree views of the Mesilla Valley.
Tortugas Mountain
A local favorite for a quick workout, featuring various trails with clear views of the city and the Organ Mountains.

Challenging & Unique

Prehistoric Trackways National Monument
Hike the 2.3-mile Trackways Trail to see 280-million-year-old dinosaur-era fossils embedded in the rock.
Organ Needle
Only for experienced mountaineers, this strenuous 10-hour hike is considered one of the most difficult in New Mexico, climbing nearly 4,500 feet.
Dona Ana Arch Trail
A 3.2-mile trail featuring unique sandstone arches and small caves, though a 4x4 vehicle is often needed to reach the trailhead.

Hiking Essentials: Always carry at least one gallon of water per person, wear sun protection, and check the BLM website for current park fees or closures.

Additional area hikes are listed at the attached website: https://www.visitlascruces.com/things-to-do/outdoors/hiking-trails/

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Off-Roading in Las Cruces

Wanting some off-roading adventures? Aden Hills Off-Highway Vehicle Area - this area encompasses about 8,700 acres of Chihuahuan Desert scrub environment. https://www.blm.gov/visit/aden-hills-ohv 
Robledo Mountains OHV Trail System-a network of trails, including both extreme OHV and mountain bike trails, in the southern Robledo Mountains. https://www.blm.gov/visit/robledo-mountains-ohv-trail-system

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Prehistoric Trackways National Monument

Established in 2009, the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument in New Mexico protects 280-million-year-old fossilized footprints from the Paleozoic Era, including those of amphibians, reptiles, insects, and plants. Fossil viewing at the monument is limited as major specimens have been moved for study, but visitors can see tracks at the Las Cruces Museum of Nature & Science or the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. The monument offers nearly 30 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicle use, though a New Mexico State recreational access permit is required for areas on State Trust Land.A reclamation project adjacent to the monument is ongoing through 2026, which may cause temporary closures and affect access to roads and trails.Directions from the campground include turning right onto Picacho Ave (US-70), left onto Shalem Colony Trail, then west onto Rocky Acres Trail, with the final mile requiring high-clearance, 4WD vehicles.

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Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park

Located along the western bank of the Rio Grande just 1.5 miles southwest of historic Old Mesilla, this park is a sanctuary for nature lovers. Spanning 52 acres of the "Old Refuge" floodplain and 945 acres of diverse wetlands and Chihuahuan Desert, it serves as a vital hub for conservation and education. 

• Outdoor Activities: Explore a variety of bird-watching tours, ranger-led nature walks, and engaging activities designed specifically for children.
  
• Diverse Habitats: Experience the striking transition between lush riverine ecosystems and the rugged beauty of the desert. 
  

Directions from the Campground: Head south toward Old Mesilla and follow signs for the park once you reach the town center. The short drive leads you directly to one of the area's best spots for quiet reflection and wildlife photography.

575-523-4398

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Las Cruces Museum of Art

Located in the heart of downtown, the Las Cruces Museum of Art features over 5,000 square feet of modern, multi-use exhibition space. The museum hosts a rotating schedule of traveling contemporary art exhibits, showcasing works from both regionally and nationally recognized artists. 

• Education & Studios: The museum is well-known for its extensive art studio program, offering creative classes and workshops for artists of all ages.
  
• Admission: Admission is free to the public.
  
• The Arts Corridor: The museum is part of a larger complex that includes the Museum of Nature & Science and the Branigan Cultural Center, making it easy to visit multiple sites in one afternoon. 
  

Pro Tip: If you visit on a Saturday morning, you can enjoy the museum and the famous Farmers & Crafts Market of Las Cruces which takes place right outside on Main Street!

575-541-2137

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Las Cruces Museum of Nature & Science

The Las Cruces Museum of Nature & Science (MoNaS) serves the southern New Mexico community by providing interactive programs and exhibits in natural history and science. Our expert staff fosters scientific literacy and environmental stewardship through hands-on learning tailored for all ages. We invite you to explore the diverse landscapes and scientific frontiers of the Chihuahuan Desert with us.

575-522-3120

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Las Cruces Railroad Museum

Housed in the historic 1910 Santa Fe Railroad Depot, the Las Cruces Railroad Museum preserves the rich locomotive heritage of the Mesilla Valley. The museum provides deep insights into how the railroad transformed Southern New Mexico by catalyzing economic growth and connecting once-isolated communities to the rest of the nation. Key Highlights 

• Historic Architecture: The museum occupies a restored Mission Revival style building that originally served as a vital hub for both passengers and freight.
  
• Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can explore operating model train layouts, vintage railroad tools, and a 1909 wooden caboose located outside the main depot.
  
• Cultural Impact: Exhibits detail the arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in 1881, which fundamentally shifted the region's development away from Mesilla and toward the burgeoning town of Las Cruces.
  
• Visitor Information: Admission is free, and the museum is typically open Tuesday through Saturday at 351 N. Mesilla Street
  

575-647-4480

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Gadsden Museum

Located in the historic village of Mesilla, the Gadsen Museum is a privately owned treasure trove of Southwestern lore. The museum showcases an eclectic collection that spans centuries of regional history, from the Gadsden Purchase to the legends of the Wild West.

Notable Collections:

• The Billy the Kid Jail: A standout feature of the museum is the original jail cell that once held the infamous outlaw, providing a tangible link to New Mexico's frontier past.
  
• Native American Art: The museum houses a significant array of indigenous artifacts, including rare deerskin paintings and traditional crafts.
  
• Regional Artifacts: Exhibits detail the impact of the Gadsden Purchase and the deep-rooted history of the families who settled in the Mesilla Valley.
  

Visitor Information:

• Days: Wednesday through Saturday
  
• Access: By appointment only
  
• Location: Mesilla, New Mexico (near the historic Plaza)
  

575-526-6293

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Fort Selden Historic Site

Established in April 1865, Fort Selden served as a vital protectorate for the southern tip of the Jornada del Muerto and the primary military road heading west. Its strategic position along the Rio Grande was essential for safeguarding settlers and travelers in the Mesilla Valley. 

• Buffalos Soldiers & History: The fort is famously known as the duty station for several units of Buffalo Soldiers and was the childhood home of General Douglas MacArthur.
  
• The Ruins: Today, you can walk among the majestic adobe ruins and explore the visitor center, which features exhibits on frontier military life.
  
• Location: Located about 15 miles north of Las Cruces in Radium Springs. 
  
• Hours: Open Wednesday–Monday, 10 AM to 4 PM (Closed Tuesdays).
  

575-526-8911

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Golf Courses

• New Mexico State University Golf Course - 3000 Herb Wimberly Dr., (575) 646-3219, www.nmsugolf.com
  
• Picacho Hills Country Club - 6861 Via Campestre in Picacho Hills, (575) 523-8641, www.picachohillscc.com
  
• Red Hawk Golf Course - 3601 Arroyo Rd., (575) 513-7628, www.golflascruces.com
  
• Sonoma Ranch Golf Course - 1274 Golf Club Rd., (575) 521-1818, www.sonomaranchgolf.com
  

Surrounding Area Courses

• Anthony Country Club - 2100 W Ohara Rd., Anthony, NM, (575) 882-2723
  
• White Sands Golf Course - located on White Sands Missile Range Military Base, (575) 678-8824, www.wsmrmwr.com/Golf
  

Disc Golf

Experience Disc Golf in Las Cruces. While it's a hidden gem in the desert, Las Cruces holds its own as a competitive hub, currently ranked among the top 15 disc golf cities in New Mexico. The city features two distinct courses, including a premier 18-hole championship layout designed for a serious challenge. Beyond the fairways, the community is thriving, with five local leagues hosting regular meetups and tournaments for players of all skill levels.

Sunrise Terrace Disc Golf Course
1856 Sumner Ave., Las Cruces, NM

Las Cruces Dam DiscGolfPark
1301 Roadrunner Parkway, Las Cruces, NM

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Pickleball

Las Cruces, New Mexico, is a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels. This fast-growing sport—a dynamic blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong—has exploded in popularity across the region. With top-tier facilities like the East Mesa Sports Complex and the climate-controlled Pickle Planet, paired with a welcoming community and stunning desert scenery, it's easy to see why players are flocking to the courts in Las Cruces.

Where to Play Pickleball in Las Cruces
Las Cruces features a variety of high-quality venues for every type of player, from casual park games to exclusive club experiences.Apodaca Park

• The Vibe: The local "hub" for outdoor play.
  
• Courts: 8 dedicated outdoor courts.
  
• Details: These courts are free and open to the public, featuring permanent lines and nets. It's the go-to spot for finding a pickup game.
  
• Location: 801 E. Madrid Ave.
  

Meerscheidt Recreation Center

• The Vibe: A versatile community sports hub.
  
• Courts: 4 outdoor courts.
  
• Details: The courts are well-lit for evening play. Beyond pickleball, the center offers a fitness wing, basketball courts, and a swimming pool, making it a great all-day destination.
  
• Location: 1600 E. Hadley Ave.
  

Rio Grande Winery

• The Vibe: Upscale, social, and scenic.
  
• Courts: Private outdoor courts.
  
• Details: For a more exclusive experience, members of the Rio Grande Wine Clubenjoy access to these courts. It's the perfect way to combine a workout with a vineyard view.
  
• Location: 5321 Highway 28 (Note: Updated from "Highway 5321" to the correct local route, Hwy 28).
  

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Explore America's Oldest Wine Region

Did you know the Rio Grande Valley is the oldest wine-producing region in the U.S.? Long before vines reached California, Spanish settlers and missionary priests were cultivating European grapes in this fertile, sun-drenched valley. 

• A Rich Legacy: Beginning in the early 1500s, original Spanish grape stocks were planted here. By the 1580s, mission priests were producing sacramental wines, and by 1880, the region was producing nearly a million barrels annually.
  
• The Modern Resurgence: While Prohibition halted production, New Mexico wineries saw a massive revival in the 1980s. Today, over 5,000 acres are under cultivation as enthusiasts rediscover the unique "terroir" of the Southwest.
  
• Taste the Tradition: Many local vintners still use descendants of those original vines to create award-winning varietals. 
  

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Elephant Butte Lake State Park

As the largest and most popular lake in New Mexico, Elephant Butte is the ultimate destination for every imaginable water sport. From boating and jet skiing to fishing for record-breaking bass, this massive reservoir offers an expansive playground for water enthusiasts. 

• Year-Round Recreation: Thanks to the area's mild southern climate, the park is a favorite destination in every season.
  
• Visitor Center: Stop by to explore regional interpretive exhibits that detail the fascinating geology and history of the Rio Grande.
  
• Sandy Beaches: Enjoy miles of shoreline perfect for picnicking, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun. 
  

Directions: Located about 75 miles north of the campground via I-25. It makes for a perfect day trip for those looking to trade the desert mountains for cool blue water!

575-744-5923

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Truth or Consequences

Located about 70 miles north of the campground on I-25, this uniquely named town (the "town—not the game!") is world-famous for its natural, odorless mineral hot springs. For a relaxing day trip, we recommend booking a soaking session at one of these renowned spas: 

• Riverbend Hot Springs: Known for breathtaking riverside views. www.riverbendhotsprings.com | 575-894-7625
  
• Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa: A Ted Turner Reserve property offering luxury wellness. www.sierragrandelodge.com | 575-894-6976
  
• Fire Water Lodge: Features Adobe-style charm and private in-room tubs. www.firewaterlodge.com | 575-740-0315
  
• La Paloma Hot Springs & Spa: Steeped in history with legendary artesian flows. www.lapalomahotspringsandspa.com | 575-894-3148
  
• Charles Motel & Hot Springs: A classic, no-frills local favorite. www.charlesspa.com | 575-894-7154 
  

Pro Tip: Many of these spas require advance reservations for private walk-in soaks, especially on weekends.

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El Paso, TX

Located just 45 minutes south of the campground via Interstate 10, El Paso is a vibrant border city where rich history meets stunning natural beauty. Nestled between the Franklin Mountains and the Rio Grande, it offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and scenery. Highlights for Your Visit: 

• Scenic Views: Drive the Trans-Mountain Road for high-elevation vistas or take the Wyler Aerial Tramway (check for 2026 operational status) for a panoramic look at three states and two countries.
  
• History & Culture: Explore the El Paso Mission Trail, featuring 17th-century missions, or visit the world-class El Paso Museum of Art.
  
• Dining & Entertainment: From authentic Tex-Mex and world-famous steakhouses to the lively entertainment districts downtown, there is something for every palate.
  
• Franklin Mountains State Park: Perfect for high-desert hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing right within the city limits. 
  

Whether you're looking for a day of shopping, a hike with a view, or a memorable meal, El Paso is a fantastic addition to your stay at the Las Cruces KOA! Traveler Tip: If you're visiting in the evening, don't miss the Star on the Mountain, which lights up the El Paso skyline every night!

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La Posta de Mesilla

Famed for Mexican Food and Steaks Since 1939

575-524-3524

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NM Vintage

Welcome to the official tasting room of Cowbelle Wines, arguably the best New Mexico wine, beer, and cigar nook in the world—at least according to our customers! Steeped in the historic ambiance of Old Mesilla, our space invites you to relax, savor the finest local craft beers and wines, and enjoy entertainment guaranteed to make you smile. Our only request? Relax, Taste, and Enjoy.

575-523-9463

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Chope's Bar & Cafe

On May 26, 2015, Chope's Town Cafe and Bar in La Mesa was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history dates back over 100 years to when Longina Benavides first opened a small dining room in her home. Later, her son José “Chope” Benavides and his wife, Guadalupe, took over the business and added the bar next door. 

Today, the establishment is owned and operated by the couple's daughters, who grew up in the café. Chope's still retains much of its original 1915 appearance, preserving its legacy as a cherished local landmark. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cj_Y8KqZ3fw

575-233-3420

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Hacienda de Mesilla

Inspired by the grand haciendas of the Old West, Hacienda de Mesilla is a premier boutique inn, grille, and cantina located in Historic Old Mesilla near Las Cruces. Every detail is beautifully decorated to reflect the unique cultural intersection of the Old West and Old Mexico, offering travelers a charming, personalized experience. As a standout destination in the area, it perfectly captures the spirit of its historic surroundings.

575-652-4953

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Valley Pizza

Locally owned and operated, this Las Cruces favorite serves up some of the city's best food with the convenience of a $1 pizza delivery. Guests can unwind on the Paradise Patio with a selection of wine and beer, while live music sets the perfect vibe every weekend.

575-541-4545

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