Rockhound

(Deming NM)
Nestled against the Florida Mountains, in southern New México, is the popular Rockhound State Park. I can see why; as the setting is fantastic. sites are well spaced with all having good views. Mountains to the south and east, and desert to the west.

Valley between two mountains

Florida Mountains from Rockhound State Park

It certainly is well named. There are plenty of rocks of all sizes and many types. From tiny gems to huge boulders, which were easily accessible. And, they allow you to take up to fifteen pounds of rocks with  you. Most places prohibit doing that. Although rock collecting is not advisable RV hobby.

Several sizes of rocks

Many small rocks

I hiked many of the trails; varying my treks between mornings and evenings. Benches and flat boulders along the paths provided resting stops. There were many smaller trails branching off of the main ones. Presumably taken by rockhounds searching for that special stone. I did not venture up any of those.

Big rock pile

Lots of large rocks

Three small desert gardens, with some of the plants having name tags, were another option. Those helped me to build my reference photos. And, they were a nice easy stroll; very different than hiking in the mountains. A park volunteer told me that, in March, the hills are ablaze with Méxican Poppies.

Huge boulder on hillside

Big boulders

Except for the first photo, these shots are in the Little Florida Mountains which are directly behind the campground. As usual, a few were selected from the many taken. Have I mentioned that I really like rocks? So, I enjoyed wandering around.

Deep orange cliffs

Little Florida Mountains behind campground

The weather was perfect while I was there. Mostly sunny days with highs around 65-70, nights mild in the 40s. A light cool breeze was blowing most of the time. Hard to beat that in the middle of winter.

Camp: Rockhound SP
Scene: Mountains, rocks, desert

4 Responses to Rockhound

  1. J. RICHARD SECOR January 23, 2014 at 2:20 am #

    One of our favorite areas – nice country – must get cold at night tho.

    • Pleinguy January 23, 2014 at 2:59 am #

      I suppose it normally is cold. But, during my stay it was mostly in the 40s over night. Very pleasant.

  2. Debbie Goode January 25, 2014 at 11:56 am #

    We love the desert! Have been through Deming many times. We will most definitely have to check out Rockhound State Park our next time through! Love the photos!

    • Pleinguy January 25, 2014 at 4:05 pm #

      Do take the time to visit Rockhound; it’s worth the trip. Glad you enjoyed the pix.

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