• placement: superzone
  • path: destinations/pois/hero
  • containerId: gpt-ad-520951798765
  • possible size: [970, 250], [970, 90], [728, 90], [320, 50], [1, 1],
  • targeting: 
    {
  "url": "points-of-interest/valley-of-fires-recreation-area/1348665",
  "refresh": 30,
  "refresh_limit": 3
}

Valley of Fires Recreation Area

At the Valley of Fires Recreation Area, 4 miles west of Carrizozo, you can explore the rocky blackness of a 125-sq-mile lava flow that's 160ft deep in the middle. The paved 0.6-mile nature trail is easy for kids and holds informative signs describing the geology and biology of this volcanic wasteland, or simply hike off-trail, cutting cross-country over the flow. You’ll find first-come first-served campsites and shaded picnic tables near the visitor center.

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

  • placement: superzone
  • path: destinations/pois/middle
  • containerId: gpt-ad-523483420453
  • possible size: [970, 250], [970, 90], [728, 90], [320, 50], [1, 1],
  • targeting: 
    {
  "url": "points-of-interest/valley-of-fires-recreation-area/1348665",
  "refresh": 30,
  "refresh_limit": 3
}

Must-see attractions

Explore all
  • placement: superzone
  • path: destinations/pois/superzone
  • containerId: gpt-ad-826127740216
  • possible size: [970, 250], [970, 90], [728, 90], [320, 50], [1, 1],
  • targeting: 
    {
  "url": "points-of-interest/valley-of-fires-recreation-area/1348665",
  "refresh": 30,
  "refresh_limit": 3
}