LEASBURG DAM STATE PARK
Leasburg Dam State Park offers year-round camping, picnicking and bird watching. From about mid-March through mid-October, the park also offers fishing, canoeing and kayaking in the Rio Grande. The dam channels water from the Rio Grande for irrigation in the Mesilla Valley. Nearby Fort Selden State Monument has a museum and trails at the site of a 19th century army outpost.
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The park offers a variety of boating options. Visitors can enjoy canoeing and kayaking on the Rio Grande River, which flows through the park. The river is calm enough for beginners but also provides some small rapids for more experienced boaters to navigate. There are several spots within the park where visitors can launch their boats into the water.
Anglers can enjoy river fishing in the Rio Grande. Species include catfish, largemouth bass and bluegill. A valid license is required.
Leasburg Dam State Park is located near Las Cruces
Leasburg Dam State Park offers picnic tables, grills and shelters. Enjoy a meal while overlooking the Rio Grande or mountains.
In this particular location, biking opportunities are plentiful yet challenging. The terrain is diverse and can be quite rugged.
Mountain bikers will find a variety of trails to explore. However, these paths require skill due to rocky sections.
For those seeking less intense rides, there's an accessible paved road that winds through the park offering scenic views but beware of traffic.
The Rio Grande River Trail offers another option for cyclists with its flat gravel surface; however it may get muddy after rains so proceed carefully.
Night cycling is permitted within designated areas only and requires appropriate lighting equipment for safety reasons.
Remember always wear protective gear when riding in any area as unexpected obstacles or wildlife could pose potential hazards on your journey.
Located in New Mexico, the park offers birdwatching opportunities with over 200 species spotted. It has a Bird Blind and Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park nearby for additional sightings.
To get to Leasburg Dam State Park, go 15 miles north of Las Cruces on I-25, get off at exit 19 and take NM 157 west to the park entrance.