Clayton New Mexico Tourism

Clayton is located in the northeastern corner of New Mexico. It is the site of a dinosaur track way on the edge of an ancient sea. Native Americans came through here at least 10,000 years ago, and the Santa Fe Trail was formed through the area 170 years ago.

Some of the most interesting things to see include: Capulin Volcano National Monument where one can walk on an extinct volcano. Clayton Lake State Park has excellent fishing with picnic and camping facilities, and over 500 dinosaur tracks can be viewed there. It is also a great spot to view the night sky at the observatory. Hiking opportunities await the adventurous traveler on the Kiowa National Grasslands. There are also many spots along the Santa Fe Trail where one can view the wagon ruts left behind from the travelers heading west. The Union County Courthouse is the site where the outlaw Thomas “Black Jack” Ketchum was hanged in 1901, and his final resting place is at the cemetery in Clayton.

Clayton and Union County offers museums, parks, a 9-hole golf course, fairgrounds, swimming pool, and excellent hunting opportunities. There are a number of shops featuring arts, collectibles, souvenirs and other merchandise.