Nearby is the historic Fort Seldon State Monument, and 15 miles (24 km) to the south is the city of Las Cruces.

Its purpose is not to hold back the flow of the river, but instead to divert it into a system of canals for use by nearby farms.

[2] Known for its rich history, early settlers used the area as a passage to Jornada del Muerto, the nearby site of a 19th-century army outpost is a reminder of a time not too long ago.

Leasburg Dam State Park offers year-round camping, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Nearby a museum and a number of trails are located near Fort Seldon State Monument.