Coyote Creek State Park in New Mexico will temporarily close its gates from Oct. 14 through Oct. 28 to facilitate the construction of a power line upgrade by the Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative.
The closure, announced by New Mexico State Parks, affects both day-use and camping activities as the park undergoes significant infrastructure work. The decision aims to ensure public safety and allow contractors to work efficiently.
The construction project involves burying the power line that currently stretches above ground across the park. This line will be relocated underground, running from the northern to the southern boundaries of Coyote Creek State Park. The park’s management emphasized that the temporary closure is essential due to open trenches along the main roadway.
The construction funding is partly supported by the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a federal program designed to assist in preserving natural spaces and enhancing public outdoor recreation areas.
According to an article published by Las Vegas Optic, State Parks Director Toby Velasquez highlighted the project’s benefits, stating that the upgraded electrical system would reconnect current park facilities to the newly buried line and provide power to a newly developed campground loop.
Velasquez noted that this improvement would significantly enhance the visitor experience. “The viewshed through the main valley of the park along Coyote Creek will also be improved, providing a clear, open space for everyone to enjoy during their stay,” he said.
Coyote Creek State Park, a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offers a wide range of amenities, including a visitor center, camping sites, showers, group shelters, electrical hookups, restrooms, dump stations, boating ramps, fishing areas, playgrounds, trails, and RV pull-through sites.
Known for its ideal fly fishing, camping, hiking, and birding conditions, the park features a scenic two-mile trail that loops through the area, crossing the creek twice and passing by several beaver dams and ponds.
The approach of Coyote Creek State Park underscores the importance of proactive infrastructure improvements to enhance both safety and visitor experience. By investing in essential upgrades, such as burying the electrical line, private campground owners can aim to provide a safer environment for visitors while enhancing the park’s outdoor offerings.