Located just south of I-40 at Exit 85, the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center is your public lands gateway for the region.

Big RVs and oversize vehicles will fit in our large parking lot.

A picnic area next to the front entrance is the perfect place to relax and plan your next adventure in El Malpais, on Mount Taylor, or in the wilds of the conservation area. 

Our Western National Parks Association bookstore has topographic maps, field guides, books, and postcards for your perusal.

Our 60 seat theater is the perfect place to enjoy our collection of over 50 videos, including the award winning "Remembered Earth," a 27 minute documentary that summarizes the high desert legacy of northwest New Mexico. Assistive listening equipment is available upon request.

"Discover the Wonders" in our exhibit area; nine suggested tours are detailed in photos, maps, and exhibits. Take the tour cards with you and plan your next vacation.

Group Use and Reservations

The visitor center is available for certain types of group use during normal operating hours. Please call our staff at 505-876-2783 with any requests for group use.

A Public Lands Partnership

The USDA Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management are partners with the National Park Service in operating the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center. Both agencies manage nearby public lands in the region. Use the links below for more information.

Bureau of Land Management

USDA Forest Service

Tour the galaxy with us!

The center regularly hosts astronomy programs after dark. Check this space for our next event and make plans to be a part of Mars Approaches 2010! Mars will again be at opposition in early 2010, and our intrepid crew will be out in force with telescopes at the ready. The program is tentatively scheduled for late January or early February, depending on the weather. Call the center at 505-876-2783 for more details.