Cities and Towns in Union County, New Mexico

Founded in 1893, Union County is one of 33 counties in the state of New Mexico. Historically, Union County was formed from parts of Colfax County, Mora County and San Miguel County. The city of Clayton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Union County has a population of 4,107 and area of 3,830 square miles (9,920 km²).

List of all cities in Union County, NM alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Amistad, NM 88410 575
Bueyeros, NM 88415 575
Capulin, NM 88414 575
Capulin Mountain National Mo, NM 88414 575
Clapham, NM 88415 575
Clayton, NM 88415 575
Des Moines, NM 88418 575
Farley, NM 88422 575
Folsom, NM 88419 575
Gladstone, NM 88422 575
Grenville, NM 88424 575
Hayden, NM 88410 575
Mount Dora, NM 88424 575
Rosebud, NM 88410 575
Sedan, NM 88436 575
Seneca, NM 88415 575
Sofia, NM 88424 575
Stead, NM 88415 575
Thomas, NM 88415 575

Major Cities and Towns in Union County, New Mexico

Clayton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 2.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,100
  • Zip Codes: 88415
  • Latitude: 36.4510° N
  • Longitude: 103.2040° W

Location and History

Clayton is the county seat of Union County, located in the northeastern corner of New Mexico, close to the Oklahoma and Texas borders. The city lies at the intersection of U.S. Route 64 and U.S. Route 87, making it an important crossroads for travelers and trade. Clayton’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was established as a railroad town. The Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway extended its line to the area in 1901, spurring the town’s growth. The town was named after the nearby Clayton Ranch, which was owned by early settler Joseph Clayton. The region was once part of the Comancheria, an area controlled by the Comanche people, and settlers began moving into the area after the U.S. Army removed the Native Americans from the region in the late 1800s. Clayton became a center for cattle ranching and agriculture in the early 20th century, and its economy still maintains a strong focus on agriculture. Today, Clayton is a small but active community, known for its historical significance, including its role in the development of the railroad in the Southwest.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Clayton is served by the Clayton Municipal Schools district, which includes Clayton High School, Clayton Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town is also home to private educational institutions. Key landmarks in Clayton include the Clayton Lake State Park, known for its fossilized dinosaur footprints, which attract paleontology enthusiasts. The Clayton Historic District offers visitors a glimpse of the town’s early 20th-century architecture, with several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Another significant site is the Union County Museum, which showcases the history of the area from Native American times through the railroad era and up to the present day. The Clayton Carnegie Public Library is an important cultural resource, providing access to books, educational programs, and community events. With its rural charm, rich history, and proximity to outdoor attractions, Clayton is a favorite destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.


Des Moines

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 200
  • Zip Codes: 88418
  • Latitude: 36.6582° N
  • Longitude: 103.5265° W

Location and History

Des Moines is a small town located in the northeastern part of Union County, New Mexico. It lies approximately 35 miles southwest of Clayton, at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The town was established in the late 19th century and was originally a small agricultural community. Its name is derived from the Des Moines River in Iowa, which was named by French explorers in the 17th century. Like many other small towns in the region, Des Moines saw growth due to the expansion of railroads and the development of nearby agricultural lands. Historically, the economy of Des Moines has been centered around farming, particularly cattle ranching and the cultivation of crops such as hay and alfalfa. While the town’s population has remained small, it has maintained a strong community identity. Des Moines is known for its quiet, rural atmosphere and its location near the scenic Des Moines Canyon, which makes it a popular stop for travelers passing through the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Des Moines is served by the Des Moines Consolidated Schools district, which includes the Des Moines High School and several elementary schools. Given the town’s small size, students often travel to nearby towns for higher education. Major landmarks in the town include the Des Moines Canyon, known for its picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. The town also hosts the annual Des Moines Fair, which celebrates local agriculture and community pride. The town’s rural setting and the nearby mountains provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy fishing, hunting, and camping. Although small, Des Moines offers a strong sense of community and serves as a peaceful retreat for those seeking to escape the bustle of larger towns and cities.


Folsom

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 50
  • Zip Codes: 88419
  • Latitude: 36.3725° N
  • Longitude: 103.6944° W

Location and History

Folsom is one of the smallest communities in Union County, New Mexico, located about 60 miles south of Clayton, near the border of the Texas Panhandle. The town was founded in the early 20th century and was initially a stop on the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway. Folsom grew quickly due to the influx of settlers involved in the cattle industry and farming. The town’s history is largely tied to the nearby Folsom Lake, a natural feature that became a central part of the local economy and provided water for farming and livestock. The town’s population peaked during the early 1900s, but as the railroad moved through other areas and agricultural methods modernized, the town’s population began to decline. Today, Folsom remains a very small, rural community, known for its scenic beauty and quiet atmosphere, with the surrounding hills and plains offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Folsom is part of the Union County Schools district, and students often attend schools in Clayton or other nearby towns for their education. The town’s small size limits its educational resources, but the community places high value on family and local culture. Key landmarks include the Folsom Museum, which houses artifacts from the town’s early history, including agricultural tools, old photographs, and railroad memorabilia. The nearby Folsom Lake is a picturesque location that draws photographers, nature lovers, and travelers interested in hiking and birdwatching. Folsom’s rural setting and proximity to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains make it a tranquil location for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and exploring the open landscapes of northeastern New Mexico.


Springer

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,200
  • Zip Codes: 87747
  • Latitude: 36.4587° N
  • Longitude: 104.5319° W

Location and History

Springer is located in the northeastern part of New Mexico, approximately 50 miles south of Clayton and 70 miles north of Santa Rosa. The town was established in the late 19th century and was originally a key railroad stop on the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway. Its location at the intersection of U.S. Route 56 and U.S. Route 412 made it an important hub for trade and transportation in the region. Springer’s economy was initially centered on the railroad industry, but it soon became known for its agriculture, particularly livestock ranching and farming. The town was also an important stop for travelers moving westward, and it developed into a popular stopping point for pioneers heading to California and the western United States. Today, Springer retains much of its historic charm, with several buildings from the early 20th century still standing. It is a popular destination for travelers exploring the historical landmarks along Route 66.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Springer is served by the Springer Municipal Schools district, which includes Springer High School, Springer Middle School, and several elementary schools. The town has a small but active educational community, with strong emphasis placed on agricultural studies and history. Notable landmarks in Springer include the Springer Historic District, which contains several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Springer Museum provides insight into the town’s history, focusing on its role as a railroad and agricultural hub. The nearby Capulin Volcano National Monument is a popular site, offering visitors the chance to hike to the top of a dormant volcano and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding plains and mountains. Springer’s location along Route 56 also makes it a key stop for travelers exploring the historic corridor. With its rich history and access to outdoor activities, Springer serves as a gateway to the scenic landscapes and cultural heritage of northeastern New Mexico.


Tackerville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.4 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 40
  • Zip Codes: 88415
  • Latitude: 36.4531° N
  • Longitude: 103.2324° W

Location and History

Tackerville is a small community located just outside of Clayton, New Mexico, near the Texas border. This tiny settlement was originally established as a trading post in the early 20th century. The town’s name derives from its location near a well-used livestock trail, where cattlemen and traders would “tack” their animals during long journeys. Tackerville grew as a small agricultural and ranching community, but it has remained a rural outpost with a small population. The town’s economy is still largely based on agriculture, particularly cattle ranching. While it lacks a significant downtown area or public institutions, it retains an old-west atmosphere with the remnants of its trading post past still evident in its few buildings.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tackerville falls under the jurisdiction of Union County Schools, with children attending nearby Clayton or Springer schools. Major landmarks in Tackerville include its historic post office, which was once a bustling hub of activity for the surrounding ranchers and farmers. The community is largely agricultural and offers scenic views of the rolling plains and rugged landscapes that typify northeastern New Mexico. With few commercial or tourist attractions, Tackerville remains a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination for those interested in rural life and the region’s history.