Its headwaters are Moreno, Sixmile, and Cieneguilla creeks in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which feed into Eagle Nest Dam.

[9] Cimarron Canyon State Park, located along the river, offers equestrian and hiking trails, fly-fishing, and camping.

Located within the Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area, it is near Angel Fire, New Mexico on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway.

[11] The first dozen miles of the Cimarron River (from Eagle Nest Lake to Ute Park, New Mexico) are known for fine trout fishing.

[12] The most common wildlife to frequent the region include deer, beavers, mice, squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, and swallows.