(Baylor Canyon NM)
The Dripping Springs Natural Area is now part of Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument; along with several other sites in southern New Mexico. It features the ruins of the Van Patten Mountain Camp, the Boyd Sanatorium, and the springs.
Dripping Springs
A retaining wall was built below the Dripping Springs to capture the water. A lodge was built at the camp, and it turned into Dripping Springs Resort. The lodge had 16 guest rooms, a large dining room, a concert hall. and a gazebo. It was popular for those escaping the heat during the summer, as it was 2,000ft higher than Las Cruces.
Part of Drippings Springs Lodge
Another part of the lodge
Before getting to the lodge, there was a livery area that had stables, corral, storage, chickens, etc. After the resort closed, Dr. Boyd purchased the property. His wife contracted tuberculosis; so, he created a Sanatorium and built several cabins for patients.
Sheds in the Livery area
Kitchen and Dining Hall of Boyd Sanatorium
Besides the trail up to the resort, there was one to La Cueva. A large rock formation which had a cave that was once used by natives, and later a hermit. Other trails up into the Organ Mountains could be taken, too. However, I didn’t hike any of those.
La Cueva rock formation
Organ Mountains behind Dripping Springs
There was a visitor center and picnic area; but, no camping allowed. So, I headed east to stay for free at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
Camp: Oliver Lee Memorial SP-Loop C drycamp
Scene: Lodge, spring, ruins
I’ve spent much more time in Northern NM than in the southern part, and appreciate your post on it.
Thank you Martha. The southern part of New Mexico is a bit warmer than further north at this time of year. Hence, the reason I’m roaming around in that area. I still haven’t seen everything.