The New Year is here, and we know you’re eager for a great adventure. You couldn’t pick a better place to kick off 2023 than Deming New Mexico.
Visit our treasured history museum and connect with nature in one of our three remarkable state parks. Spend some time with us in the new year and spark your spirit with elevated experiences you can only find in this sun-soaked region of the Southwest. Search for gems and local lore, sip wine and visit a nearby safe, vibrant Mexican town. Plan on coming out for The Rockhound Roundup March 9 thru the 12th.
City of Rocks State Park
For a gorgeous hike, head to City of Rocks State Park 30 miles away. Dotted by incredibly sculpted boulders, some reaching 40 feet high, this magical place offers a 5.1-mile round-trip hike up Table Mountain.
Rockhound State Park
It’s easy to understand how this state park got its name. About 10 miles southeast of Deming set against the Little Florida Mountains, this park was the first in the nation to let visitors take rock specimens like jasper, quartz, geodes and crystals with them. Look for all of these as you explore the park’s three miles of hiking trails.
Pancho Villa State Park
In 1916, Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa raided Camp Furlong in Columbus, N.M., killing more than a dozen Americans. In retaliation, President Wilson sent troops and an airplane to the border but failed to capture Villa. Today, you can camp here and see professional exhibits on this little-known piece of history.
Luna Mimbres Museum
From about 950-1200 A.D., Mimbres Indians lived in villages along the Mimbres River. Forty exhibits spanning three buildings showcase what they left behind, including pottery painted with birds and other animals. The pottery inspired architect Mary Colter to design a line of high-end dinnerware in the 1930s that was used in Harvey Houses across the West. Buy the replica line in the gift store.
Luna Rossa Winery
Founded in 2001, this winery is run by fourth-generation winemaker Paolo D’Andrea and his wife Sylvia D’Andrea. Raised in Friuli, Italy, Paolo D’Andrea’s vineyards produce chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, chenin blanc and more. The tasting room located at 3710 West Pine St. is open every day.
D.H. Lescombes Winery & Tasting Room
The Lescombes family moved from Burgundy, France, in 1981 and has been making wine in the state ever since. On Fridays, D.H. Lescombes Tasting Room in Deming (formerly St. Clair Winery & Tasting Room) offers live music and drink specials.
Puerto Palomas de Villa, Mexico
Travel internationally without boarding a plane when you drive 30 minutes to Puerto Palomas de Villa. Park your car in Columbus, N.M., bring your passport and walk across the border. The Pink Store is legendary for its authentic Mexican arts and crafts and its chile rellenos served with menonita, a type of cheese made at the local Mennonite community.
When winter’s on its way, it’s time to get away — to Deming in sunny southern New Mexico, where the average daytime high reaches a perfect 64°. Located halfway between Dallas and California, this friendly frontier town in the Old West makes a perfect home base for the season. With spectacular state parks, a world-class museum, award-winning wineries and exciting places to explore, this vibrant, fun-filled city is a top destination for snowbirds.
The City of Doves
In Deming, you’re tantalizingly close to crossing the border and making a getaway to another country. Take a journey along the Mimbres-Paquimé route, which showcases archaeological and cultural treasures as you drive from New Mexico to Old Mexico. At historic Columbus, a 45-minute drive from Deming, you’ll cross the border into the Mexican state of Chihuahua and discover Puerto Palomas de Villa, the City of the Doves. (Many visitors like to leave their car in the free parking lot on the U.S. side and simply walk across the border.) Better known as Palomas, this colorful Mexican town is filled with shops, including the famous Pink Store and Restaurant, where you can feast your eyes on arts and crafts from across Mexico and savor authentic Mexican food. Try the queso menonita, the famous local cheese the restaurant uses in its chile rellenos and other dishes. Made in a nearby Mennonite community, this cheese is the reason many visitors trek to Palomas.
For more than 25 years, the Lescombes Family Winefest has honored the greatness of the grape. This festive weekend in late September/early October is a barrelful of fun, with grape-stomping and cork-pulling contests, VIP winery tours, live music and dancing, kid’s activities, a silent auction, craft vendors and even fireworks. Of course, you’ll also get to sample award-winning wines and craft beer. It all takes place at the D.H. Lescombes Winery & Tasting room in Deming.
The Final Frontier
Ready for an adventure that’s out of this world? Strap yourself in and head to Spaceport America, located 1 hour and 26 minutes northeast of Deming. The world’s first commercially licensed spaceport lies in the Jornada del Muerto desert basin, on an 18,000-acre site. While launches are closed to public viewing, you can visit the facility with Final Frontier Tours, meeting crew members, riding the G-Shock Simulator and admiring the spaceport’s futuristic architecture. For tour information, call (575) 267-8888 or visit: https://spaceportamericatour.com/
White Waves of Sand
One of the world’s most glorious natural wonders lies northeast of Deming—the majestic White Sands National Park. Located in the Chihuahuan Desert, 1 hour and 42 minutes from Deming, the world’s largest gypsum dune field stretches across 275 square miles, and the expanse of wave-like shimmering sand is visible from space. This white wonderland is yours to explore, sledding down sandy hills or heading out to hike and camp the backcountry, where the night sky’s brilliant stars will dazzle you. White Sands is filled with wildlife and plants along with evidence that hunter-gatherers were here some 10,000 years ago.
When you’re ready to tee off, the Rio Mimbres Country Club is ready for you, with a popular public golf course offering scenic views and challenging play. The course’s desert landscape features two lakes, 14 bunkers and the first hole of this 18-hole course overlooks the dramatic Florida Mountains. The club also offers three practice areas and a driving range.
Fine Wines
When it’s time to unwind, check out Deming’s world-class wineries, producing award-winning wines with New Mexico grapes. Try a flight of Hatch Chile Wine infused with red or green chile, at the D.H. Lescombes Winery & Tasting Room. Lescombes Family Vineyards, owned by sixth-generation winemakers, is Deming’s largest winery, producing more than 40 wines. A tour of the winery includes a VIP six-barrel tasting.
At Luna Rossa Winery, award-winning wines are made exclusively from grapes grown in the Mimbres Valley, near Deming. Founded in 2001 by fourth-generation winemaker Paolo D’Andrea and his wife Sylvia, Luna Rossa offers an enchanting tasting room, a sweet spot for sampling excellent chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon and chenin blanc.
Lodging
With 15 RV parks to choose from, Deming is a snowbird’s dream. Relax and enjoy loads of sunshine, stunning mountain views, and every amenity you might need, from a heated pool and hot tub to Wi-Fi, hot showers and laundry facilities. You’ll also find a wide range of hotels and motels, all conveniently located, friendly and affordable.
Dining
When it’s time to dine, Deming’s got you covered, no matter what kind of cuisine you crave. Our local green chile is famous and you’ll find many restaurants serving the staple in creative ways, from the iconic green chile cheeseburger to green chile enchiladas and green chile meatballs. Remember, when you’re heading out on an adventure, it’s easy to pick up a lunch to go.
For the complete list of lodging, RV parks, campgrounds, restaurants and more, visit DemingNMTrue.com. Be sure to explore the website, as we’ve made some exciting updates and added a Spanish language option. And you’ll see fantastic photos of Deming’s natural beauty that will have you reaching for your travel planner.
TOUR DEMING
When it comes to travel, I find it best to seek a destination that can be a launch pad for a variety of nearby attractions to explore. Deming is such a place. There are several exciting sites worth visiting that are only one to three hours away. Here are some of our favorite day trips. Each is worth the visit and will make your day.
The City of Doves
In Deming, you’re tantalizingly close to crossing the border and making a getaway to another country. Take a journey along the Mimbres-Paquimé route, which showcases archaeological and cultural treasures as you drive from New Mexico to Old Mexico. At historic Columbus, a 45-minute drive from Deming, you’ll cross the border into the Mexican state of Chihuahua and discover Puerto Palomas de Villa, the City of the Doves. (Many visitors like to leave their car in the free parking lot on the U.S. side and simply walk across the border.) Better known as Palomas, this colorful Mexican town is filled with shops, including the famous Pink Store and Restaurant, where you can feast your eyes on arts and crafts from across Mexico and savor authentic Mexican food. Try the queso menonita, the famous local cheese the restaurant uses in its chile rellenos and other dishes. Made in a nearby Mennonite community, this cheese is the reason many visitors trek to Palomas.
For more than 25 years, the Lescombes Family Winefest has honored the greatness of the grape. This festive weekend in late September/early October is a barrelful of fun, with grape-stomping and cork-pulling contests, VIP winery tours, live music and dancing, kid’s activities, a silent auction, craft vendors and even fireworks. Of course, you’ll also get to sample award-winning wines and craft beer. It all takes place at the D.H. Lescombes Winery & Tasting room in Deming.
The Final Frontier
Ready for an adventure that’s out of this world? Strap yourself in and head to Spaceport America, located 1 hour and 26 minutes northeast of Deming. The world’s first commercially licensed spaceport lies in the Jornada del Muerto desert basin, on an 18,000-acre site. While launches are closed to public viewing, you can visit the facility with Final Frontier Tours, meeting crew members, riding the G-Shock Simulator and admiring the spaceport’s futuristic architecture. For tour information, call (575) 267-8888 or visit: https://spaceportamericatour.com/
White Waves of Sand
One of the world’s most glorious natural wonders lies northeast of Deming—the majestic White Sands National Park. Located in the Chihuahuan Desert, 1 hour and 42 minutes from Deming, the world’s largest gypsum dune field stretches across 275 square miles, and the expanse of wave-like shimmering sand is visible from space. This white wonderland is yours to explore, sledding down sandy hills or heading out to hike and camp the backcountry, where the night sky’s brilliant stars will dazzle you. White Sands is filled with wildlife and plants along with evidence that hunter-gatherers were here some 10,000 years ago.
When you’re ready to tee off, the Rio Mimbres Country Club is ready for you, with a popular public golf course offering scenic views and challenging play. The course’s desert landscape features two lakes, 14 bunkers and the first hole of this 18-hole course overlooks the dramatic Florida Mountains. The club also offers three practice areas and a driving range.
Fine Wines
When it’s time to unwind, check out Deming’s world-class wineries, producing award-winning wines with New Mexico grapes. Try a flight of Hatch Chile Wine infused with red or green chile, at the D.H. Lescombes Winery & Tasting Room. Lescombes Family Vineyards, owned by sixth-generation winemakers, is Deming’s largest winery, producing more than 40 wines. A tour of the winery includes a VIP six-barrel tasting.
At Luna Rossa Winery, award-winning wines are made exclusively from grapes grown in the Mimbres Valley, near Deming. Founded in 2001 by fourth-generation winemaker Paolo D’Andrea and his wife Sylvia, Luna Rossa offers an enchanting tasting room, a sweet spot for sampling excellent chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon and chenin blanc.
Lodging
With 15 RV parks to choose from, Deming is a snowbird’s dream. Relax and enjoy loads of sunshine, stunning mountain views, and every amenity you might need, from a heated pool and hot tub to Wi-Fi, hot showers and laundry facilities. You’ll also find a wide range of hotels and motels, all conveniently located, friendly and affordable.
Dining
When it’s time to dine, Deming’s got you covered, no matter what kind of cuisine you crave. Our local green chile is famous and you’ll find many restaurants serving the staple in creative ways, from the iconic green chile cheeseburger to green chile enchiladas and green chile meatballs. Remember, when you’re heading out on an adventure, it’s easy to pick up a lunch to go.
For the complete list of lodging, RV parks, campgrounds, restaurants and more, visit DemingNMTrue.com. Be sure to explore the website, as we’ve made some exciting updates and added a Spanish language option. And you’ll see fantastic photos of Deming’s natural beauty that will have you reaching for your travel planner.
Deming’s Paradise of Outdoor Parks
If you’re like me, you’ve been dreaming of adventure in the great outdoors. Who isn’t, having been cooped up all winter? I imagine an open sky of blue, the piney scent of mountain forest, and a winding trail. That serene spot in nature where troubles float away like clouds.
Specifically, I’ve been dreaming of Deming. This paradise of outdoor parks is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, camping and sharing picnics with the ones you love. Once you’ve explored three spectacular state parks and cast a line in a fishing lake, you’ll agree — outdoor adventure doesn’t get much better than this.
Rock City
There’s nothing in the world like the otherworldly City of Rocks State Park. This geological wonder of towers, temples and other rock sculptures was formed in the wake of a volcanic eruption some 30 million years ago. Wander the wind-sculpted, rain-worn formations—some towering 40 feet high— and discover why this park is one of New Mexico’s most visited sites. Located 30 miles from Deming, this is a prime spot for bouldering and rock climbing as well as hiking and mountain biking. Wildlife roams here, so you may see antelope, javelinas, deer and jackrabbits. Birdwatchers have some 35 species to spot , including golden eagles. Spend a night in one of the park campsites beneath a canopy of stars and you’ll never want to leave.
The moderate, 5.1-mile Table Mountain trail is City of Rocks’ most popular trail, drawing hikers and runners. The 669-foot elevation gain is worth it, when you see the gorgeous views at the top. At 3.6 miles, Hydra Trail is another favorite, an easy loop around the park with a 157-foot elevation gain. Happy trails to you!
A Rock-Hunter’s Delight
Get ready to rock it at Rockhound State Park, a prospector’s paradise with 1,100 acres of stunning scenery on the slopes of the Little Florida Mountains. Established in 1966, Rockhound was the first park in the country to let visitors take home the natural treasures they unearthed. And what treasures they are—opals, geodes, jasper, quartz crystal, onyx, agate and many other minerals and semi-precious gems. You don’t have to be a rockhound, though, to enjoy this park. You can hike and bike the rugged mountain slopes and enjoy a picnic amid panoramic views, Located 12 miles southeast of Deming, the park appeals to wildlife lovers, too, who might see antelope, deer, badgers, prairie dogs and plenty of birds.
Even the campground rocks it at Rockhound State Park. It’s not just the sweet scenery that locals love. It’s the spacious campsites and the kid’s playground, all designed for family fun.
Preserving American History
History comes to life at Pancho Villa State Park, which commemorates the famous 1916 raid of Columbus and Camp Furlong by Pancho Villa and his soldiers. This first, and last, armed invasion of the continental U.S. since the War of 1812 drew a fiery response from General “Black Jack” Pershing. Despite an 11-month 400-mile pursuit into Mexico with 10,000 U.S. soldiers, Pershing never captured the Mexican revolutionary. His U.S. military expedition was the first to employ airplanes and other mechanized transportation. When you’re ready to leave history behind, the park offers hiking, picnicking, camping, wildlife viewing and a native plant garden. Located at the border of Mexico, 30 minutes from Deming.
The Fish are Jumping
You might not expect to reel in a largemouth bass in downtown Deming, but drop your line in Trees Lake and you just may catch a few. That’s because this five-acre lake takes part in the New Mexico Game and Fish Department’s stocking program, which also includes bluegill, perch, catfish and fathead minnow. Trees Lake, part of Voiers’ “Pit” Park, also offers trails for leisurely strolls and perfect picnic spots.
Lodging
When it’s time to rest up between adventures, Deming offers hotels with charm and heated swimming pools and motels with affordable comfort and friendly service. Road-tripping in your RV? Check out Deming’s 15 RV parks, where you can relax amid stunning mountain views with every amenity you might need.
Dining
Outdoor adventures can work up an appetite. Deming’s local restaurants and wineries will make sure you’re well-fed with hearty, delicious fare and award-winning New Mexico wines. Enjoy the laid-back, friendly ambience, where you can unwind and share tales about your adventures of the day.
For the complete list of lodging, RV parks, campgrounds, restaurants and more, visit DemingNMTrue.com. Be sure to explore the website, as we’ve made some exciting updates and added a Spanish language option. And you’ll see fantastic photos of Deming’s natural beauty that will have you reaching for your travel planner.
Come on down to Deming, New Mexico
Greetings Travelers
From my window, I’m basking in the blazing colors of fall, the red Gambel oak and yellow aspens. I’ve been savoring these sweet warm days lit by golden sunshine and crisp, dark nights sparkling with stars. But I know the leaves will soon fall and the seasons will change.
I’m ready for a transformation, too. This year’s been tough. Between the pandemic and the politics, our spirits have worn thin.
I’ve been contemplating an easy way to get away this winter, to uplift and restore my heart and spirit … and I bet you have, too.
Wouldn’t it be liberating to take a break from the news and the noise of 2020? To step away from the everyday and into an exhilarating new experience?
It’s time to embrace the season and reward ourselves. Escape the winter cold and head to sunny southern New Mexico, where the average winter daytime high reaches 64°. Jump into the RV and take an epic road trip that leads to Deming. Located halfway between Dallas and California, this friendly frontier town in the Old West makes a perfect home base for the season.
With four spectacular state and national parks, Deming is the place to really get out in nature. This go- to winter getaway is perfect for snowbirds and everyone desiring a great adventure. Let us know if you go!
A Paradise of Outdoor Parks
The otherworldly beauty of City of Rocks State Park makes this one of New Mexico’s most visited sites, with striking rock sculptures formed by a volcanic eruption some 30 millions years ago. Rock Hound State Park & Spring Canyon Recreation Center, is the place to prospect for geodes, opals and other treasures to take home. History buffs trek to Pancho Villa State Park, devoted to the famous 1916 raid of General Francisco “Pancho” Villa’s soldiers, who attacked the border town of Columbus and Camp Furlong. Hike, mountain bike and picnic to your heart’s content, amid gorgeous scenery, in each of these state parks.
Step back into a fascinating, forgotten past at Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, where the Mogollon people built breath-taking cliff dwellings, starting in the late 13th century. You can also hike, horseback ride and camp in the glorious Gila Wilderness area.
RV Luxury
With 15 RV parks to choose from, Deming is an ideal destination for snowbirds and everyone else driving a recreational vehicle, which has become a hot ticket in 2020. Relax and enjoy loads of sunshine, stunning mountain views, and every amenity you might need.
For a sensational spring getaway, head to Deming in sunny southwestern New Mexico. You’ll be enchanted by this historic Old West city with a family-friendly vibe. Every March, visitors travel from around the world for a mineral and gem show that rocks like no other. And spring is an ideal time to visit Deming’s world-class museum, known as the “Smithsonian of the Southwest” for its compelling collections showcasing the region’s rich history. With spectacular state parks, a great golf course, an award-winning winery and plenty of shopping, restaurants, lodging and RV parks, Deming is the place to be this spring.
A Rockhound’s Delight
Mark your calendars now for Deming’s biggest annual event, the 55th Annual Rockhound Roundup, held March 12-15 at the Southwestern New Mexico State Fairgrounds. Hosted by the Deming Gem & Mineral Society, the roundup brings together more than 110 rock dealers from across the globe with visitors from far and wide for five days of rockin’ fun. The roundup’s big event, the bustling buyer’s market, features fossil and geode collectors, jewelry and bead artists, quartz traders and many other rockhounds. If you haven’t yet discovered the thrill of breaking open a geode and marveling at the glittering crystals inside, this is the place to do it. Admire a piece of the prehistoric past when you hold a fossil in your hands. The schedule also includes gold-digging demos, guided field trips, live and silent auctions and plenty of fun for the kids, from fossil digging to a spinning wheel of prizes. The Rockhound Roundup offers a wonderful way to experience Deming, a celebrated “Rock-Hunter’s Paradise.”
RV Park Paradise
Many people travel from all parts of the country to the Rockhound Roundup in their RVs. That’s because Deming is an RV park paradise, with some 15 scenic sites offering breathtaking mountain views, endlessly starry skies and birdwatching opportunities as well as swimming pools and numerous other amenities. Snowbirds flock to Deming for the casual RV lifestyle, while others enjoy breathtakingly beautiful campgrounds in nearby state parks, with great hiking trails, wildlife viewing rock hunting and other outdoor adventures.
The Smithsonian of the Southwest
Travel back through the centuries with a visit to the remarkable Deming Luna Mimbres Museum, filled with room after room of marvelous treasures. The building itself has a fascinating history, having been constructed as a National Guard Armory just two months after Pancho Villa’s famous raid of March 9, 1916 in nearby Columbus. Inside, you could spend days touring the many exhibits, starting with the magnificent Mimbres Indian pottery, which reveals an ancient civilization that thrived in this Mimbres Valley region a thousand years ago. In period-furnished rooms, experience what daily life was like in Deming during the 19th and 20th centuries. In the Western Area, explore cowboy life, then take a look at Deming’s railroad era with a reproduction of the city’s railroad station and Harvey House restaurant. You’ll also see impressive collections of antique cars, quilts, toys and so many other items. The volunteer-driven museum also hosts special events and tours, so be sure to check the website to see what’s happening during your visit.
To learn more about Deming’s history, take the self-guided Historic Landmark Walking Tour, which highlights 16 architectural treasures on the State Historic Register and the National Register of Historic Places. The tour begins at the museum then includes the famous 19th-century Custom House as well as a classic 19th-century brick hotel, a turn-of-the-century pool hall and restaurant, and a Masonic Hall that dates to 1917.
There’s so much to love about springtime in Deming. From the beauty of our majestic mountains and parks to our vibrant arts scene and friendly, small-town ambience, there’s simply no other place like it. We’ll see you soon.
Adventure awaits in Deming! This vibrant city in the historic Old West is home to spectacular state parks, a world-class museum, an award-winning winery and a rich, riveting history. Located in sunny southwestern New Mexico, Deming has a mild climate that makes it the perfect getaway for snowbirds. A year-round calendar of exciting events draws visitors from far and wide. Take an enchanting getaway to Deming this season, and fall in love with this friendly, fun-filled community.
Discover the area’s compelling history at the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. The collection of world-renowned Mimbres Indians pottery reveals the art and culture of an ancient civilization that flourished in this Mimbres Valley region a thousand years ago. Then explore period-furnished rooms and experience the everyday life of Deming’s residents of the 19th and 20th century. Tour collections of antique cars, quilts, toys and so much more. Visit the Western Area for a look at cowboy life, followed by the reproduction of Deming’s railroad station and Harvey House restaurant, which documents the city’s railroad era.
Now you’re ready for a first-hand experience of Deming’s rich history, on the self-guided Historic Landmark Walking Tour. View 16 of Deming’s architectural jewels, including the famous Custom House, built circa 1889, a turn-of-the-century pool hall and restaurant, and a Masonic Hall built in 1917.
With three stunning state parks in its backyard, Deming is a big attraction for hikers, mountain bikers, rock climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts. City of Rocks State Park, one of New Mexico’s most visited sites, took shape some 30 million years ago in the wake of a volcano eruption. View the mesmerizing beauty of volcanic rock formations sculpted by wind and rain into temples, towers and other dramatic shapes. Abundant wildlife includes antelope, javelinas and more than 35 bird species.
At Rockhound State Park, you can prospect for natural treasure, including opals, jasper, geodes, onyx and quartz crystal and take home your finds. That’s because this is the first park in the country to allow visitors to leave with the natural objects they discover. You can also hike, mountain bike and enjoy a picnic in this park’s stunning scenery.
History buffs are captivated by Pancho Villa State Park, which commemorates the 1916 raid of General Francisco “Pancho” Villa’s soldiers, who attacked the small border town of Columbus and a military camp. This first armed invasion of the continental U.S. was also the last, and it sparked General “Black Jack” Pershing’s famous pursuit of Pancho Villa into Mexico. Located a half-hour’s drive from Deming, on the Mexico border, the park provides a remarkable opportunity to explore this compelling history through historic buildings and an exhibition hall.
Deming also is home to the renowned D.H. Lescombes Winery & Tasting Room, which produces some 70 different wines. This year, the winery and tasting room hosts its 25th Annual Wine Festival September 28-29, a two-day celebration with live music and dancing, art, craft and food vendors, fireworks and, naturally, wine and craft beer tasting. The event takes place on a lovely lawn and includes grape stomping, a cork-pulling contest, VIP winery tours and more. Can’t make it for the festival? Stop by any Friday evening, when the winery/tasting room offers live music and wine specials on the lawn.
Once you have experienced the magic of Deming it will keep you coming back for more.