Preciado Park

Campus Green Space

Situated on the New Mexico State University (NMSU) campus in Las Cruces, Preciado Park offers a breath of fresh air for students, faculty, and locals alike. It's nestled close to the university's family housing areas, making it a convenient escape for families looking to enjoy some outdoor time with the little ones. Just a heads-up: you'll need a parking permit if you're driving over, as the signs make it pretty clear that street parking next to the park is a no-go.

What You'll Find

The park has generous open green spaces where you can spread out a blanket, toss a frisbee, or simply soak up some sunshine. Kids will make a beeline for the playground area, which has become something of a hotspot for families from the nearby student housing.

The playground features slides that are holding up well and a spinning ride that's always a hit, although a few pieces of equipment could use a little TLC. When the sun gets too intense, you can retreat to one of the sheltered tables for a break. The park includes lighting for evening visits when you're not quite ready to head indoors.

For the more active visitors, there's a basketball court where you can shoot some hoops or get a pickup game going. Several picnic tables are scattered under shaded areas, creating perfect spots to enjoy a packed lunch or gather with friends for an outdoor study session.

Part of Campus Life

Being integrated into the NMSU campus has its perks - the park benefits from regular university maintenance and security oversight, keeping things clean and safe.

Its location near academic buildings and student housing makes Preciado Park an ideal spot to decompress between classes or for campus residents to get some fresh air without venturing far from home. The calm atmosphere makes it particularly welcoming for families connected to the university community, offering a little green haven within the academic environment.