Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park

Carlsbad, New Mexico, United States

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The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park in Carlsbad, New Mexico, was established in 1967 after land donations totaling over 1,100 acres, with the intent to preserve and showcase the animals and plants native to the Chihuahuan Desert.

Situated on Ocotillo Hills overlooking Carlsbad and the Pecos River, it features a zoo with more than 40 animal species and hundreds of desert plants displayed in natural habitats. The park offers interpretive trails with educational signage about the geology, ecology, and cultural history of the area, including exhibits like the Sand Hills, Prairie Dog Village, and a reptile house.

It serves as both a conservation site and an educational resource, dedicated to desert preservation through public engagement and stewardship. The park hosts outdoor programs and seasonal events, inviting visitors to learn about the unique wildlife and ecosystems of the desert region.