Sugarite Canyon State Park - Raton, NM - New Mexico State Parks

The nature enthusiast will appreciate the abundance of wildlife, birds, butterflies, and wildflowers among the lakes, creeks, forests, and meadows. Nearly all outdoor recreation activities are possible: Fishing, boating, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, and camping. Take a Walk Through History. The Coal Camp Interpretive Trail winds through the ruins of the Sugarite coal camp. Coal mining in the area provided an important economic boost to the region and state. The visitor center provides information about the coal camp and the area's history. Captivating Caprock. An extended cliff of basaltic rock columns, often referred to as "caprock," is the dominant geologic feature at the park. About 12 million years ago, broad sheets of molten lava erupted from a nearby volcano, forming layers of basalt rock 10 - 100 feet thick. Rock climbing is allowed on the caprock.