Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

Set against the west-facing escarpment of the Sacramento Mountains, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park features historical exhibits and a fully restored 19th century ranch house. Springs from Dog Canyon support a variety of unexpected plant life, including maidenhair fern and wild orchids.

Dog Canyon is a quiet green oasis, where water flows year-round and ferns cling to the sides of mossy rocks. This area is one of many deep ravines that slice the west-facing flank of the Sacramento Mountains in southern New Mexico. Oliver Lee, the park's namesake (Oliver Milton Lee, 1865-1941), was one of the most colorful men in New Mexico history. Life of late 19th century settlers can be experienced through the guided tours of Oliver Lee's ranch headquarters. The ranch has been restored and authentically furnished, providing visitors with a taste of Lee's residency at the ranch.