Weary travelers passing through Southwestern New Mexico can no longer find respite in the tiny community of Road Forks. An oasis once stood at the intersection of I-10 and Highway 80, where you could pull off the freeway for fuel, lodging, and a hearty meal. The structures remain, but people no longer stop there, except to marvel at what has been left behind.

The only business in the vicinity that was still open was a little fireworks shop.





A thick chain held the mini mart doors closed, so I pressed my camera against the glass and captured a few pictures.

The fueling area was quite large with plenty of gas pumps in various states of disrepair. I imagine it was bustling with traffic in its heyday.

After exploring the desolate town of Willcox, Arizona, I thought I'd seen enough abandoned places for one day. I was mistaken.I happened upon a fantastic cluster of abandoned businesses purely by accident. Five miles after crossing into New Mexico from Arizona, I exited the freeway, and there they were in all their abandoned glory: a massive USA Gas Station, Road Forks Mini Mart, Shady Grove Restaurant, and Desert West Motel. I'd hit the jackpot.