You've heard of some of New Mexico's national monuments, but what about our state parks? We actually have 35 state parks, and visiting them is a great way to explore the Land of Enchantment. No matter the time of year, here are 14 of the best state parks in New Mexico that you don't want to miss.

1. Elephant Butte, Elephant Butte

This is New Mexico's biggest state park. It's great for boating and all types of water sports. The sandy beaches are ideal for picnicking too. Visit the Elephant Butte State Park website for more information.

2. Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, near Alamogordo

Highlights of this park, which abuts the Sacramento Mountains, include an interpretative trail that focuses on the flora and fauna found in this oasis. The Dog Canyon Trail is also a popular, if strenuous, hike. Visit the Oliver Lee Memorial State Park website for more information.

3. Bottomless Lakes State Park, near Roswell

The lakes in this park are all sinkholes, which range from 19-40 feet in depth. But the water looks much deeper than it is. The reason for that is the aquatic plants that give the water a blue-green hue, creating the illusion that the water is bottomless.. You can swim and even scuba dive in this park! Visit the Bottomless Lakes State Park website for more information.

4. City of Rocks State Park, between Silver City and Deming

The volcanic rocks in this park date back 34.9 million years. You can weave through passages between the rock columns, some of which stand 40 feet high. Popular activities include stargazing, birding, and mountain biking. Visit the City of Rocks State Park website for more information.

5. Pancho Villa State Park, Columbus

In 1916, Pancho Villa, the Mexican revolutionary leader, crossed the border with 1500 guerrilla fighters, killed 19 Americans, and burned the town of Columbus. This park, right near the border with Mexico, is devoted to the history of the Pancho Villa Raid, Camp Furlong, and the U.S. response to this attack. Visit the Pancho Villa State Park website for more information.

6. Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park near Carlsbad

This small zoo houses 40 species of animals and also plants that are native to the Chihuahuan Desert region. These include creatures like mountain lions, bobcat, javelina, and wolves. Visit the Living Desert Zoo & State Park website for more information.

7. Cerrillos Hills State Park, Cerrillos

If you're interested in New Mexico's mining history, this is the place to go. Situated just off the Turquoise Trail, this day-use park contains five miles of trails and has impressive mountain views. Visit the Cerrillos Hills State Park website for more information.

8. Bluewater Lake State Park, near Grants

Bluewater Lake is known for fishing, especially for tiger muskie. Visit the Bluewater Lake State Park website for more information.

9. Cimarron Canyon State Park, Eagle Nest

The drive through this canyon is gorgeous. Those into fishing flock to the Cimarron River. But this is also a great place for wildlife fans and photographers because it is in the middle of a wildlife management area. Visit the Cimarron Canyon State Park website for more information.

10. Navajo Dam State Park, near Bloomfield

While Elephant Butte is the place to go boating in the southern half of the state, if you're further north, head to Navajo Lake. The park offers two marinas and two boat docks. Plus the San Juan River is a must for fly-fishing. Visit the Navajo Dam State Park website for more information.

11. Clayton Lake State Park, near Clayton

It's incredible to see dinosaur footprints up close. Visit the Clayton Lake State Park website for more information.

12. Heron Lake State Park, near Tierra Amarilla

Come here to get away from it all. At this lake, boat speeds are limited, creating a more peaceful environment for those on the shore. Kokanee salmon fishing is another draw and you can even go ice fishing in winter. Visit the Heron Lake State Park website for more information.

13. Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, Albuquerque

As this park is on the Rio Grande Flyway, it's perfect for birding. Blinds and feeders increase your chances of spotting birds. You can even observe the wildlife from the glass-walled library inside the visitor center. Visit the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park website for more information.

14. Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park, Angel Fire

This park was established by parents who lost their son in the Vietnam War. The park opened in 1971, making it one of the first memorials to honor those who served in the Vietnam War. Visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park website for more information.

Which of these state parks have you been to? Do you have a favorite? Here are some of New Mexico's underrated parks for more travel inspiration.