About Valley of Fires
Valley of Fires recreation area is located immediately adjacent to the Malpais Lava Flow. Approximately 5,000 years ago, Little Black Peak erupted and flowed 44 miles into the Tularosa Basin, filling the basin with molten rock. The resulting lava flow is 4 to 6 miles wide, 160 feet thick and covers 125 square miles. The lava flow is one of the youngest lava flows in the continental United States. From a distance, Valley of Fires looks like barren rock, but as you walk through the nature trail you'll see many varieties of flowers, cacti, trees and bushes typical of the Chihuahuan desert. Animals include bats, roadrunners, quail, cottontails, mule deer, barberry sheep, and lizards. It's also a birdwatcher's paradise, with the chance great horned owls, burrowing owls, turkey vultures, hawks, gnat catchers, cactus wrens, sparrows and golden eagles.
How to Get There
Four miles west of the Town of Carrizozo on US 380.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Valley of Fires
Heading to Valley of Fires? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Valley of Fires?
No central reservation system listed for Valley of Fires. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1803) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Valley of Fires?
Four miles west of the Town of Carrizozo on US 380.
How do I contact Valley of Fires?
You can reach the park at phone: 575-627-0272.
References & Official Resources
