El Gogorrón National Park

El Gogorrón Overview

El Gogorrón National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional Gogorrón, is a vast protected area located in the state of San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Established in 1936, the park covers approximately 380.1 square kilometers (about 146.7 square miles) and lies about 40 kilometers south of the city of San Luis Potosí.

This region is part of the Sierra Madre Oriental and is surrounded by the Bernalejo and La Cuesta mountain ranges, with the nearby Altamira River adding to its rich geographical features.

The terrain of El Gogorrón National Park is a diverse mixture of valleys, mountains, and unique rock formations. One of the most prominent elevations in the park is Picacho de Bernalejo, a striking mountain that rises majestically above an area filled with column-like rock structures.

Another remarkable formation is “La Ventana,” a large natural rock opening that frames panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. The park’s vegetation is equally varied, featuring forests of pine (Pinus cembroides and Pinus montezumae) and oak (Quercus spp.), as well as extensive areas of mesquite trees and various species of prickly pear cacti (Opuntia spp.). This combination of flora creates a rich and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of wildlife.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mammals such as the coyote (Canis latrans), bobcat (Lynx rufus), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and raccoon (Procyon lotor). Among the bird species, notable ones include eagles, quails, and doves.

Reptiles are also present, with species such as the black-tailed rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus) and various boas inhabiting the area. This diverse fauna offers visitors the chance to observe a wide range of species in their natural habitat, making the park a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.

One of the most popular features of El Gogorrón National Park is its natural hot springs, which have been developed into recreational areas such as Parque Recreativo Gogorrón. Here, visitors can enjoy pools fed by these thermal springs, as well as waterslides and picnic areas.

Additionally, the historic Ex Hacienda Gogorrón, which has served as a filming location for various movie productions, offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s rich history. Another attraction is the El Potosino Dam, an ideal spot for activities like fishing, swimming, and family outings.

Visitors to the park can engage in a wide variety of outdoor activities. Hiking is particularly popular, with trails that wind through forests and canyons, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for plant and wildlife observation. Mountain biking is another highlight, with numerous trails challenging riders of different skill levels.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, designated camping areas allow visitors to spend the night under the stars and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Horseback riding is also available, with trails that provide a unique way to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.

In terms of conservation, El Gogorrón National Park has faced challenges, including drought conditions that have led to wildfires, such as the one that occurred in April 2024, resulting in the temporary closure of some park areas.

However, since its establishment in 1936, the park has been a success in protecting diverse ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices. Managed by the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP), conservation and restoration initiatives continue to preserve this valuable environment for future generations.

Park Map

El Gogorrón National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

El Gogorrón National Park’s dry forests, rocky outcrops, and open plains provide ideal habitats for a variety of bird species, from soaring raptors to ground-dwelling birds.

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
A large and powerful raptor, the red-tailed hawk is often seen soaring above the park, hunting for rodents, reptiles, and small birds.

American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
The smallest falcon in North America, the American kestrel is a skilled hunter that preys on insects, small mammals, and birds.

Curve-billed Thrasher (Toxostoma curvirostre)
A medium-sized bird with a long, curved beak, the curve-billed thrasher forages in the park’s dry landscapes, searching for insects and seeds.

White-winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica)
A large dove species commonly seen in the park’s trees and open spaces, the white-winged dove feeds on seeds and fruits.

Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus)
A desert-adapted bird, the cactus wren builds its nests in cacti and shrubs while foraging for insects and small fruits.

House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus)
A small, reddish songbird frequently found in open areas and along the park’s trails, the house finch feeds on seeds and berries.

Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
A powerful nocturnal predator, the great horned owl hunts rodents, rabbits, and small birds, using its sharp talons and excellent night vision.

Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria)
This small finch, with its bright yellow plumage, flits among trees and shrubs in search of seeds and small insects.

Inca Dove (Columbina inca)
A small, ground-dwelling dove with scaly-patterned feathers, the Inca dove is commonly seen foraging for seeds along pathways and open spaces.

Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea)
A striking blue songbird, the blue grosbeak is often found near shrubs and woodland edges, where it feeds on seeds and insects.

El Gogorrón National Park, located in the state of San Luis Potosí, Mexico, is a diverse protected area with a combination of semi-arid landscapes, hot springs, and dense woodlands. The park’s varied ecosystems support a range of wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, and amphibians adapted to its dry and temperate conditions.

Coyote (Canis latrans)
A highly adaptable predator, the coyote thrives in the park’s dry forests and open areas, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles while also scavenging when necessary.

Mexican Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus)
This small fox is a nocturnal and omnivorous species that feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. It is commonly seen in scrublands and wooded areas of the park.

White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
A common herbivore in the park, white-tailed deer graze on grasses, shrubs, and tree leaves, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
This pig-like mammal roams the park in small groups, foraging for roots, fruits, and small invertebrates. It is an important species for seed dispersal.

Nine-banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)
This nocturnal burrowing mammal is often seen digging in the soil for insects and larvae, helping control insect populations.

Ring-tailed Cat (Bassariscus astutus)
A nocturnal, raccoon-like mammal, the ring-tailed cat is an expert climber that hunts for insects, rodents, and small birds in rocky areas and forests.

Black-tailed Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus)
Adapted to dry environments, this fast-running hare uses its large ears to regulate body temperature in the park’s hot climate.

Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister)
A medium-sized lizard that thrives in the park’s rocky terrain, feeding on insects and small invertebrates while basking in the sun.

Mexican Plateau Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma orbiculare)
Well-camouflaged and slow-moving, the horned lizard primarily feeds on ants and can squirt blood from its eyes as a defense mechanism.

Black-tailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus)
A venomous snake that blends well into the rocky terrain, the black-tailed rattlesnake preys on small mammals and birds.