Socorro Nature Area
April 29 update: The Socorro Nature Area is undergoing upgrades to the existing facilities. Projects include the construction of a new group site shelter, improvements to ADA-compliant facilities, and several other related projects. The Socorro Nature Area will remain open for day use during construction. Heavy equipment and construction traffic may be encountered. Please use caution when visiting this site. Construction will be ongoing until the projects are complete.
The Socorro Nature Area is a 120-acre environmental education area in the Rio Grande Bosque. The area includes a 1.5-mile self-guiding nature walk with interpretive signs, a pond, and an amphitheater. It also has picnic tables, a group shelter, and a restroom
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
- The entrance to the Nature Area is gravel and dirt but relatively flat and level. One needs to be able to maneuver around the gate and walk into the nature area unless you first get the code to drive through.
- There is a smaller paved parking area with several parking spots. It connects to a paved sidewalk that leads to a restroom, a shaded picnic table, an information kiosk (information panels coming soon), and the group picnic area.
- The nature trail is 4-6 feet wide, mainly dirt with gravel throughout. It is composed of two loops that are 1.5 miles in total. One needs to be able to walk across uneven surfaces. There are several spots to stop and sit along the way.
Know Before You Go
Fees
- None
- Call the Socorro Field Office to reserve dates and to get the combination to the keypad.
Facilities
- Parking Lot, information kiosk, picnic tables, group shelter, and restroom.
- Drinking water is not available.
Nearby Amenities
- The nearest location to acquire food, gas, and water is in Lemitar, ~2 miles away. Travel via Nature Lane to Schmittle Rd, then continue onto CII De Lemitar to reach the gas station/travel center.
Season/Hours
- Socorro Nature Area is open year-round with "walk-in" access.
- For vehicular access and/or group camping, call the Socorro Field Office at 575-835-0412.
Special Rules
- Camping is available for organized groups only-such as Boy Scouts, church groups, and youth groups-by reservation.
- No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons.
- Pets must be on a 6ft leash.
- Please make sure to dispose of any litter in the trashcans.
Brochures, Maps and Publications
Wildlife in Area
- Red winged blackbirds
- Turkey vultures
Phone
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Take Exit 156 (Lemitar Exit) off I-25 to the State Road 408 intersection. Turn to the east and travel 1.1 miles eastward along State Road 408 across the railroad track to a "T" intersection. Turn right and travel southward for 0.2 miles, then turn left onto a maintained dirt county road. Travel 0.5 miles eastward across irrigation and drain ditches to the area.
Fees
No