About the Park

Nestled just east of Gallup, New Mexico, Red Rock Park is a 640-acre gem cradled by striking red sandstone cliffs formed over 200 million years ago during the Mesozoic Era.  Red Rock Park in Gallup, New Mexico, was originally established as Red Rock State Park in 1972. It changed from a state park to its current status as a City of Gallup-owned park in 1989, with management responsibilities held by McKinley County. The park’s dramatic landscape, part of the Colorado Plateau, is steeped in history, with Anasazi archaeological sites nearby dating back to 300 AD, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.

The park is a cultural and recreational hub, home to the Red Rock Park Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni cultures, including pottery, jewelry, and rugs, that chronicle the region’s rich Native American heritage. Visitors can explore two scenic hiking trails: the 3-mile Pyramid Rock Trail, a moderately challenging out-and-back route that leads to a 7,487-foot summit with panoramic views of Gallup, the Zuni Mountains, and beyond, and the 3.4-mile Church Rock Trail, which winds past majestic sandstone spires and deep canyons. Both trails are perfect for hiking, birding, and mountain biking, with cairns guiding the way.

Red Rock Park also features an outdoor arena that hosts vibrant events, including the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, rodeos, and the Red Rock Balloon Rally. The park’s two campgrounds (Main and West) offer 121 sites with electric and water hookups, picnic areas, and modern amenities, making it ideal for overnight stays. A convention center, suitable for events, with rooms for 50 to 500 people. At the same time, nearby attractions such as the Gallup Cultural Center and the Navajo Code Talker Museum contribute to the area’s cultural allure. Whether hiking, camping, or immersing in Native American traditions, Red Rock Park is a must-visit destination.