Nelson's kangaroo rat (Dipodomys nelsoni) is a species of rodent in the family Heteromyidae which is endemic to the central plateau of Mexico.

Its typical habitat is rolling grassland or semiarid areas with scattered trees and shrubs such as Acacia, Prosopis juliflora, Larrea tridentata, Fouquieria splendens, cactus, Yucca and Agave.

[3] Nelson's kangaroo rat creates a complex burrow system with several entrances which are surrounded by a distinctive large, low-domed mound.

[3] Nelson's kangaroo rat has a wide range in central Mexico where it is generally uncommon, being present at an estimated density of 9–20 individuals per hectare.

The total population is presumed to be large and it faces no particular threats so the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed it as being of "least concern".