Keystone Heritage Park and the El Paso Desert Botanical Garden — Attraction in El Paso

Five stars are given for the beautiful scenery and desert plants. The one star is given regarding staff. I recently took photos of my wedding at this location. I paid a month in advance, provided information that they requested, and was told it would be placed on the calendar so we would have the whole park to ourselves. I was not informed that I had to call the day before to confirm. On the day of the wedding, a staff member began harassing one of the groomsmen as he was cleaning up, asking if there was drinking, if they were part of a wedding, and that no drinking was allowed on the premises. The groomsman continued to walk to his car and ignored her; the staff member continued to follow him to his car, threatening to call the cops. The groomsman became fed up and told the staff member it was none of her business, closed the door, and drove off. They mentioned she was on the phone, possibly with the cops, and perhaps taking down the license plate number as she looked at it. My husband, photographers, videographer, and I were then approached by a staff member, requesting to see proof of payment as it is required when taking photos regarding a photoshoot. I showed her the payment and left us alone. Luckily, she waited until we were done with a picture and mentioned that I looked "beautiful." She said the event wasn't on the calendar and did not know where the other manager was.

I had just found out she had put a damper with our wedding court later that evening when they informed us. My husband and I had to apologize to our groomsmen for experiencing this.

It's unfortunate that this event happened on our special day. I'm glad we were not questioned to that extent, as it is supposed to be a special moment.

Please review any monies regarding appointments so they do not have...

My much better half and I traditionally start the New Year with a hike in one of our outstanding parks, but this year we delayed our tradition by a fortnight. Access to Tom Mays is currently obstructed by road construction, so we’ve found superior/easier for me “flat” surfaces of this site. After inserting our $2usd fee (50% off for us Seniors) into the pay pipe, we entered the Keystone Wetlands section. We initially started our hike on the gravel road closest to the pond, observing many ducks/foul. Soon, we were abreast the solar/wind turbine station on our left/West side and we tracked to it. It was an interesting display despite not being kept up. We then returned to our start point on a manicured trail. From there, we hiked due North, toward the entrance to the botanical gardens. Going beyond, we crossed a small creek into a more densely thrushmore organized setting. It was rather a delightful place to visit albeit adjacent to what can be a noisy Doniphan Drive/Tx20. I’ve frequentlyes/protected bat houses/memorial bench/information plaques/turn-around point. Though much shorter, it seemed much more interesting. Next, we took the rear entrance to the carefully maintained botanical garden. There is a plethora of signage (for plantings/artwork/personnel/sculptures), patio/grill station, bathrooms (COVID19 closed), and amphitheater. I have cycled by this location as that 5-lane road is one of the two primary routes (the other is I-10) connecting with Las CrucesNM/other destinations further West. Sadly, our return will not occur frequently because it is on the Westside, further than we prefer to go during these highly contagious coronavirus times. Regardless, it does have my coveted “iWheel...

A Peaceful Escape for All Ages — Nature, Beauty & Pure Zen

Keystone Heritage Park is one of those rare places where time slows down and nature takes center stage. I visited on a quiet weekday afternoon, and from the moment I arrived, it felt like stepping into a tranquil world of color, sound, and stillness. The soft hum of bees, birdsong echoing through the trees, and the gentle wind weaving through the botanical gardens created an atmosphere of complete peace.

The trails are flat and easy to follow, making it a perfect spot for all ages. My wife, daughter, and son all loved the experience — it’s a space that invites exploration, photography, and simply being present. As a photographer, I was mesmerized by the vibrant flowers, pollinators in motion, and even the small surprises like camouflaged insects and birds playing in the fountains.

The park also offers spaces you can rent for gatherings or parties, with prices that are incredibly reasonable — and the best part is that those fees help support the upkeep of this natural haven. Restrooms are available, and pets are welcome on a leash, making it even more accessible for families and dog lovers alike.

Whether you’re there to take in the beauty, breathe in the calm, or capture nature through your lens, Keystone is a local treasure that I can’t recommend enough.

Sharing some of the moments I captured below — — Derya...