Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

Oliver Lee was a famous local rancher who was tried and acquitted for the murder of Col. Albert Fountain and his son.  The Fountains were returning from filing charges against Lee for "unlawful branding of cattle" when they disappeared just west of current-day White Sands National Monument.

Lee established his ranch near Dog Canyon in 1893.  By tapping nearby water sources, including Dog Canyon, he was able to grow fruit and other crops, along with his vast herds of cattle.

Dog Canyon Trail

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