Northwest New Mexico Water Recreation

Prior to fishing at these lakes, make sure that you have the appropriate licenses and are familiar with the governing agency's fishing regulations for that particular lake.

El Vado Lake recreation area is managed by the New Mexico State Parks. Dam operations are by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

El Vado Lake State Park
State Road 112
Tierra Amarilla, NM 87575
(575) 588-7247
(877) 664-7787 (for reservations)
➠ www.emnrd.state.nm.us/spd/elvadolakestatepark.html
➠ Directions (Google Map)

Activities

Boating, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding (in north area), picnicking, water and winter recreation. A 5.5-mile scenic trail along the Rio Chama connects El Vado Lake with nearby Heron Lake.

Facilities

El Vado Lake has a visitor center, modern campground with restrooms, boating ramp and two docks, and a beach. No lifegaurd present at the beach, swim at own risk.

Campgrounds
Eight campgrounds are available with 80 developed campsites. Restrooms have water and vault toilets. Select restrooms have showers. Electric hookups and RV Dump station is also available.

Fees

• No lake use fees required.
• Fees for campground use.
• A valid New Mexico fishing license is required.

Fishing

Designated as a coldwater fishery, largemouth bass, bluegill, rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee salmon are present. Salmon snagging allowed in the fall.

Fishing License

New Mexico Game and Fish
(505) 222-4700
➠ www.wildlife.state.nm.us

Water Recreation

The lake is open to all types of water sports, including boating, swimming, jet skiing, sailing, windsurfing, and fishing.