Congressman Harold Runnels Recreation Complex
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 13, 2025
The Congressman Harold Runnels Recreation Complex is located in the state of New Mexico and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities to enjoy.
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Summary
One of the main reasons to visit the recreation complex is for the beautiful natural scenery that can be found throughout the area. Visitors can hike the trails, fish in the lake, or have a picnic with family and friends.
Some specific points of interest to see include the large lake, which is perfect for fishing and boating. Additionally, there are several picnic areas and grills located throughout the park, making it an ideal location for a family outing. The recreation complex also has a playground for children, which is a great spot for young families.
Interesting facts about the area include the fact that the park was named after Congressman Harold Runnels, who was a representative for New Mexico from 1969 to 1980. The recreation complex covers an area of approximately 400 acres and is managed by the City of Carlsbad.
The best time of year to visit the Congressman Harold Runnels Recreation Complex is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the scenery is at its best. The park is open year-round, however, so visitors can enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year.
Overall, the Congressman Harold Runnels Recreation Complex is a great place to visit for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With its beautiful scenery, range of activities, and family-friendly facilities, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Mexico.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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