Young Park — Attraction in Las Cruces

This is a decent park, basically the best we have here in Cruces. The only problem I have with it is that the pond is not currently in the best state. What I mean is that since they drained it and worked on it earlier in the year, it still hasn't been properly stocked. There are a few small catfish, bluegill, and minnows, but that is it. There used to be a lot more life in there. I breed koi, so I get that it takes time for a pond to get properly established, but it's already being taken over by algae. I'm really hoping that they will throw in a good amount of crayfish, and/or freshwater shrimp, as that will help keep the algae in check, and they are a great source of food for the fish that are currently in the pond, and the trout that should be getting stocked soon.

One cool thing about the park is the population of cats that come out at night. If you love cats and live somewhere that doesn't allow pets, or if you just want to be surrounded by cats that are almost close enough to pet, then stop by here about an hour after sunset and kickback by the pond. From what I experienced the best area for kitty watching is the north west side. I parked on E. Colorado Ave in front of the apartments and walked up the little hill. There's a lot of light here, some benches, and even a covered picnic table that the cats inspect very thoroughly. I'm pretty sure that you could get one or two of the cats I saw to let you pet them if you brought some type of food, especially the really curious little gray one, but that's up to you, and I take no responsibility for any scratches or fleas...

If my girls and I did not enjoy going to Young Park as it was already, we like it even more since they upgraded one of the play areas.. We like to play on the really big instraments that were included with upgrade. My girls like to ride their skates or scooters along the walking trail that goes around the whole park. We love Youngs walking trail for it's little hills. The park is pet friendly so long as kept on a leash, w/pet waist bags along the trail. Offering drinking fountains and a public restroom for males and females. Lots and lots of grassy area to play around in. We sometimes give the ducks that live in the beautiful pond our left over bread, but If you are affraid of birds you might want to avoid doing this because all the ducks just might start swimming towards you as well as the park birds. Speaking of the pond...I think it's awesome that the kids can go fishing in it, and yes I have seen people actually catch fish. When we have more people than yard at our house, we have moved Easter Celebration to that park a few times already, as well as the occasional birthday party. They hold events throughout the year that you can find mentioned in the local news paper. Oh I remember seeing a movie at the park one time on a giant projector screen. They hold fundraisers there, concerts, the carnival, I think I have even seen a car show before. I never sat and thought about all the wonderful things that young park offers. I almost forgot to mention the fenced in tennis court that people can enjoy. You can use the provided grills, benches, picnic tables, and trash cans...

VERY LONG POST DUE TO LOVE First off, this was my favorite park as a child! Now understand that it is one of the older parks in the city, and for it's age, it still is wonderful. There have been many new additions over the years including tennis courts and an updated jungle gym. There are several issues though, mostly due to the neighborhood. The pond is merky and dirty but contains enough fish that fishish is still a pasttime. The grass is beautiful and plush but I don't think it's due to the dog poop fertilizer that many caring individuals leave behind despite the many pick-up spots (always containing the necessary tools for disposal). The many, MANY events that this park facilitates should be an indicator to these individuals that they (the park faculty) are trying to give this area something to be proud of. Sadley, the residents and patrons don't seem to care. I love this park and I would love to be able to give a 5 star. It...