Valley of Fire Recreation Area, NM - Feb 2008

Valley of Fire Recreation Area was an overnight stop on our way from Brantley Lake to Elephant Butte Lake. This national park is just west of the town of Carrizozo, New Mexico and is the site of a fairly recent (5,000 years ago) lava flow. The park had a campground with electric and non-electric campsites. Most of the sites had excellent views of the surrounding lavascape, but we lucked into one site that was all by itself at the end of a cul-de-sac and on top of a bluff. The 360 degree views were awesome and worth going without electricity.

The patio had an excellent view over the lava flow. The only downside to this campground was the wind -- huge gusts kept the RV pitching back and forth all night. We had to get up twice during the night to quiet the trash can that developed an irritating rattle.

A one-mile trail allowed visitors to wander amongst the lava flow. There were informative signs all along the trail describing the natural features. Here is Frank standing in front of a tall bank of lava.

Another trail led up to the top of a peak that afforded us a view to the Tularosa Valley and beyond.

A fiery sunset at the Valley of Fire park.