Lakes may not be the first word that comes to mind when thinking of New Mexico. However, this Land of Enchantment, known for its diversified landscapes, provides a lovely backdrop for not only a few but many lakes. They serve as fishing and boating spots, while the park bordering them gives access to campsites. If you want to heal through nature or seek a wonderful escape, visiting these lakes in New Mexico should be on your list. Check out some of the most beautiful water bodies in New Mexico below.
Best Lakes in New Mexico
1. Abiquiu Lake
Abiquiu Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Mexico. This New Mexico’s seventh-largest lake reflects the red cliffs and Cerro Pedernal, surrounding you in gorgeous scenery. red cliffs and Cerro Pedernal. Abiquiu Lake is a reservoir overlooked by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
You can enjoy the lake’s beauty through various recreation areas where you can have a picnic, go fishing, swim, or ride a paddle boat. It also has many campsites where you can spend an evening gazing at the stars or the majestic Cerro Pedernal.
2. Elephant Butte Reservoir
Visiting a century-old lake sure has its unique charm. This is the case with Elephant Butte Reservoir, located on the Rio Grande River, which itself is one of the top endangered rivers in the world. This reservoir is meant to make water accessible for agricultural and municipal uses. However, a visit to the Elephant Butte State Park will leave you delighted. You can ride a pontoon, sailboat, kayak, ski boat, and jet ski on the water of the reservoir. There are various trails for hiking and biking as well as camping facilities for beach and boat-in camping.
Book Hotels Near Elephant Butte Reservoir
3. Navajo Lake
If you’re looking for lakes in Mexico for the ultimate adventure, Navajo Lake is a must-visit. It is situated 30 miles east of Farmington and is the second-largest lake in New Mexico. The fishermen of this lake have broken many state records, so you can be assured of finding a wide variety of marine life.
Lovers of boating and water sports will also love this lake. After boating and fishing, you can go on a hiking trail or view wildlife. There are 240 campgrounds in the Navajo Lake State Park with all the amenities to serve visitors.
4. Caballo Lake
The Caballo Lake, bordering the Caballo Mountains, is a haven for birdwatchers. The 75-foot-deep lake’s open waters, chaparral and riparian woodlands around that are shaded by willows and cottonwoods offer a perfect habitat for an array of water birds and songbirds. Besides birdwatching, you can also enjoy boating, kayaking, camping, and fishing at the Caballo Lake State Park. Caballo Lake is on Highway 187. It, along with the state park, is open throughout the year.
read more: Romantic Getaways in New Mexico
5. Fenton Lake
One of the most peaceful lakes in New Mexico, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, is Fenton Lake. The Fenton Lake State Park is in the western Jemez Mountains and attracts tourists in large numbers every year. From fishing, camping, and hiking to boating, there’s almost nothing that you cannot do here. All the campsites here have firepits and benches. The Fenton Lake Trail allows you to explore the park and the area on foot or on horseback.
6. Conchas Lake
Conchas Lake is a long, 40 km reservoir that lies at an elevation of 4,200 feet. It was built in 1939 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Today, this is one of the most visited lakes in New Mexico for boating, water skiing, snorkelling, scuba diving, and swimming. Hikers can travel the short Dam Overlook Trail that leads to the main dam stilling basin. The 20 primitive campsites here have picnic shelters, grills, and fire pits.
7. Cochiti Lake
If you’re planning a trip to New Mexico during June/July, don’t miss out on Cochiti Lake. It was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1960 and was filled with water in 1973. This lake has many recreation areas, like beaches, boat launch spots, picnic sites, and camping grounds with water and electric hookup loops. Sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are some other exciting activities for families to enjoy. You need a $5.00 day entry fee to access the recreation areas.
8. Blue Hole Lake
Blue Hole is technically a water hole in Santa Rosa. It is a sparkling blue swimming hole with caves hidden beneath. According to legend, it was formed after the collapse of the limestone bedrock. Post-collapse, an artesian well flooded the cavern. This bell-shaped pool or small lake is a popular swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, and cliff jumping spot. No matter which option you try, you’re bound to have a fantastic experience.
Book Hotels Near Blue Hole Lake in New Mexico
9. El Vado Lake
El Vado Lake is situated in the north-central part of New Mexico. This reservoir has a depth of 167 feet and allows for various water sports. You can fish or ride a boat if you are a water lover or go hiking and horseriding if you like exploring outdoors. The 5.5-mile trail along the Rio Chama links this lake with nearby Heron Lake. There are modern campgrounds and a beach at the El Vado Recreation area, so you can enjoy your stay.
read more: New Mexico Beaches
10. Brantley Lake
Brantley Lake, also called Brantley Reservoir, lies in Southeast New Mexico. It is a relatively recent reservoir made in 1989 designed to hold 348,540 acre-ft of water. The aim of creating it was flood control and water storage for irrigation. However, it has turned into a popular tourist place for water recreation and fishing. White bass, bluegill, walleye, channel catfish, and trout are some of the major varieties you can find.
On the shores of the lake is a state park offering access to campgrounds and boat ramps. It also has two day-use areas, the Seven Rivers Day Use Area and the East Day Use Area, that are open between March and September. They give access to swim beaches, picnic areas, modern restrooms, playgrounds, and boat launching spots.
Summing Up
The gorgeous lakes in New Mexico provide a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Once you visit them, it will feel hard to step back and retreat. The scenic surroundings, numerous recreation activities, and allure of sparkling waters will leave you and your family mesmerized. It’s a great way to spend time with nature.
