End your summer on a high note with a road trip through some of New Mexico's gorgeous state parks. This itinerary is heavy on parks with lakes so that you can cool off along the way. However, the outdoor opportunities extend far beyond swimming. Hiking enthusiasts, fishing fans, and wildlife lovers will all enjoy this drive.

The route covers 848 miles and takes a hair over 15 hours without stops. We recommend spacing the trip across several days - Labor Day weekend anyone? There are plenty of campsites in New Mexico's state parks where you can sleep surrounded by scenic vistas.

Here is the Google Map for the trip.

1. Elephant Butte Lake State Park

We’ll start and end this loop at New Mexico’s largest state park, which is conveniently located just off I-25.

Elephant Butte State Park surrounds the biggest man-made lake in the state. This is a great spot for boating, water sports, or just relaxing on a soft, sandy beaches.

2. Caballo Lake State Park

If you've already traveled some distance to take this road trip, Caballo Lake State Park offers a quieter, less crowded camping alternative to Elephant Butte. There are 170 campsites available plus beach camping. Popular activities at this reservoir include fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

3. Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park

Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park doesn’t garner as much attention as some of New Mexico’s other parks. This means it’s rarely overrun with people. You can stroll along a nature trail, keeping an eye out for birds, while enjoying views of the Organ Mountains and Rio Grande.

4. Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

Highlights of this park, which abuts the Sacramento Mountains, include a historic ranch house and an easy natural trail that concentrates on the flora and fauna found in this area. If you’re up for a challenge, hike the Dog Canyon Trail.

5. Brantley Lake State Park

Brantley Lake State Park is a hidden gem in the southern desert of New Mexico. Do a little bass fishing, sailing, or perhaps even some waterskiing in this oasis.

Both primitive and developed campsites are available here. While sites aren't all that close to the lake, they do offer excellent water views.

6. Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park

In this petite zoo, you’ll find 40 species of animals that live in the Chihuahuan Desert region, along with some native plants. Explore the 1.3-mile, accessible path through the park, absorbing the panoramic views as you go.

It's best to arrive early in the day to avoid the midday heat.

No pets are permitted in this state park.

7. Bottomless Lakes State Park

This park centers around some unusual lakes that are actually sinkholes, ranging in depth between 17 and 40 feet. You can scuba dive here or just take a dip. Lea Lake is the most developed of these swimming holes. There you’ll find a beach, along with a sand volleyball court, and paddleboat rentals.

This state park contains just over 4.5 miles of trails including a half-mile wetlands trail.

8. Sumner Lake State Park

This low-key state park offers opportunities for sailing, taking short hikes along the two miles of trails, and birding.

9. Manzano Mountains State Park

The higher elevation (7,250 feet) of this lesser known state park allow you to escape the heat and also enjoy the solitude of hiking through these forested foothills.

If peace and quiet is higher on your priority list than amenities, consider camping at one of the 23 developed but basic campsites here.

Conclude your drive by returning to Elephant Butte - or Truth or Consequences - to finish out this loop.

Admission to each of New Mexico's state parks is $5 per vehicle for day use. With nine parks, that amounts to $45. That's pretty affordable, especially if you travel as a family or with a group of friends. Campsites range in price from $8 per night for a primitive spot, to $18 for a developed site with all the hookups.

So, what do you think? Are you ready for this road trip?

Learn more about New Mexico's many state parks here. We're sure there is at least one that appeals to you.