Leasburg Dam State Park

The historic Leasburg Dam, Leasburg Canal, and Dam Tender’s House perched at the edge of the bluff overlooking the dam were built between 1906 and 1908 by the U.S. Reclamation Service. The dam was the first water diversion structure built on the Rio Grande in New Mexico by the Reclamation Service, predating Elephant Butte Dam by almost 10 years. Its purpose was to provide irrigation water for the Mesilla Valley. The historic El Camino Real used by the Spanish to supply northern colonies around Santa Fe passes near the park including the infamous Jornada del Muerto section. The nearby Fort Selden site is a 19th century army outpost that is famous for its Buffalo Soldiers. A short 25 minute drive from bustling Las Cruces brings you to this quiet park along the Rio Grande. Leasburg Dam State Park offers peace and relaxation, a beautiful cactus garden, several hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking and birding. Some of these trails take visitors to historic structures at the park. Night sky programs are very popular at this park, which features an observatory. Park Elevation 3,962 ft Make a reservation on the New Mexico State Parks reservation website.