The town of Carrizozo is located in South Central New Mexico. Nestled in the shadows of the beautiful Sacramento mountain range at the northern edge of the Tularosa Basin, residents and visitors alike enjoy the pleasant climate of the high desert, yet are less than an hour from the tall pines and skiing areas of the Lincoln National Forest. Carrizozo boasts a variety of lodgings, shops and restaurants, as well as a growing art community, while still maintaining a friendly small town atmosphere.

From its beginnings as an important railroad town in the late 1800’s, to its modern-day status as the county seat, Carrizozo has a rich history, and visitors are welcome to tour the newly-opened Carrizozo Heritage Museum to learn more about the heritage of our town. Nearby attractions include the fascinating Valley of Fires lava flow, Three Rivers Petroglyph site, the gold-mining ghost town of White Oaks, and the natural attractions of the Lincoln National Forest and Wilderness areas.

With its name derived from the Spanish word “carrizo” meaning a reed-like grass, an extra “zo” was added to proclaim the abundance of the grass in the region, and the town moniker was born. At 5425 feet above sea level, with an annual rainfall of 12-14 inches, and 10-15% humidity, Carrizozo boasts four distinct yet mild seasons. While residents admire the surrounding snow-capped peaks in the winter season, snowfall in Carrizozo is minimal and rarely lasts more than a day.

Please accept our invitation to visit the Town of Carrizozo on your next journey to historic Lincoln County, New Mexico!

DISCOVER CARRIZOZO

At The Crossroads of New Mexico