Top 15 Stunning Lakes to Explore in New Mexico

The fifth largest state in the USA, New Mexico is a remarkably diverse region in terms of both culture and geography. Its landscape varies from arid desert to snowy mountain peaks, creating a captivating destination.

New Mexico encompasses the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Aztec Ruins National Monument, the White Sands National Monument, and the Gila National Forest. Additionally, the Rio Grande traverses the center of the state, flanked by numerous lakes, some of which are excellent locales for visitation. Below are the 15 premier lakes in New Mexico.

1. Heron Lake; Rio Arriba County

This scenic lake is situated in the northern region of the state, framed by the stunning Brazos Cliffs. Heron Lake is positioned at an elevation of 2,190 meters within the Rio Chama Gorge.

In addition to its visual appeal, the principal feature of the 2,400-hectare lake is Heron Lake State Park, located along the southern shore. The park offers 200 campsites, picnic areas, and boat ramps.

Anglers frequently visit Heron Lake for trout and salmon fishing, while it is also a favored destination for sailors, windsurfers, and paddle boaters.

2. Navajo Lake; San Juan & Rio Arriba Counties

Navajo Lake was formed by damming the San Juan River. This 6,300-hectare reservoir is named in honor of the Navajo people.

The southern shorelines are home to Navajo Lake State Park, which features 200 camping and picnic sites, two marinas, and two boat ramps.

Boating and fishing are especially popular activities at Navajo Lake, recognized as one of the premier spots in New Mexico for smallmouth bass, northern pike, and black crappie fishing.

3. Caballo Lake; Sierra County

Recreational activities are the primary attraction of Caballo Lake, which is also enhanced by the picturesque Caballo Mountains along the east side. Visitors often come here for swimming, water skiing, windsurfing, and boating.

The 4,500-hectare lake is also notable for birdwatching due to the migratory birds that frequent the area. Additionally, it is favored for walleye, bass, crappie, and bluegill fishing.

Located along the Rio Grande in the southern part of the state, Caballo Lake State Park is situated on the southwestern corner, providing camping opportunities for overnight guests.

4. Conchas Lake; San Miguel County

Conchas Lake is adjacent to Conchas Lake State Park, situated along the Canadian River. Covering 3,900 hectares, the lake is celebrated for its tranquil canyons and coves, as well as serene beaches.

The lake’s shoreline provides excellent opportunities for hiking and bird watching, and the lake itself is well-known for exceptional fishing. It also supports boating and swimming activities.

Visitors wishing to stay overnight and enjoy the stunning sunsets will find multiple campsites available at Conchas Lake State Park, along with spaces for boat camping.

5. Elephant Butte Reservoir; Sierra County

For those seeking a beach experience, Elephant Butte Reservoir is arguably the premier destination in the state. Moreover, it is New Mexico’s largest artificial lake!

Spanning 14,800 hectares, the lake is part of the stunning Elephant Butte Lake State Park. This splendid park offers camping facilities and picnic areas, as well as a marina.

The lake derives its name from the volcanic core resembling an elephant’s shape, which now forms an island within the lake.

6. El Vado Lake; Rio Arriba County

This 1,300-hectare lake is situated alongside the Rio Chama in northern New Mexico. The reservoir is particularly striking due to its surrounding mountains.

A scenic 8.9-kilometer hiking trail runs along the northern edge of El Vado Lake, connecting it to Heron Lake State Park. The eastern side features El Vado Lake State Park, which offers camping and picnic facilities.

The lake has long been favored for salmon and trout fishing, and during winter months, it attracts visitors for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

7. Fenton Lake; Sandoval County

Located in the Valles Caldera, Fenton Lake is at an elevation of 2,331 meters and is surrounded by a picturesque landscape, making it one of the state’s most beautiful lakes.

The lake is encompassed by Fenton Lake State Park, which offers hiking and camping options. It is also recognized as a popular fishing destination.

Fenton Lake operates year-round, with ice fishing and cross-country skiing available during the winter months. Families visiting during the summer can enjoy the onsite playground.

8. Abiquiu Lake; Rio Arriba County

Abiquiu Lake was constructed by building the Abiquiu Dam along the Rio Chama. Covering 2,100 hectares, this lake is a favored recreational destination.

Swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking are prominent activities enjoyed at the lake, alongside its 1,950-meter elevation that offers spectacular views.

The Riana Campground features 52 campsites along the lake’s shoreline, as well as an onsite playground for children.

9. Blue Hole; Guadalupe County

Previously known as Blue Lake, this bell-shaped pool is celebrated for its clear azure waters. Submerging into a striking oasis, it is nestled within the desert landscape.

Blue Hole is among the most popular diving locations in the country. Despite its limited diameter, it reaches a depth of 40 meters.

This site offers a fantastic opportunity for families to swim on warm days; the water temperature remains consistent at 17°C, allowing for year-round diving.

10. Brantley Lake; Eddy County

This 1,600-hectare reservoir is situated along the Pecos River just north of Carlsbad, inside the Chihuahuan Desert, providing breathtaking scenery.

Brantley Lake State Park encompasses the lake, offering camping and hiking to visitors. The lake itself is also an excellent venue for canoeing, kayaking, and boating.

The water is stocked with largemouth bass, white bass, walleye, channel catfish, and various other species, making it a popular location for anglers, and it offers remarkable bird watching opportunities.

11. Snow Lake; Grant County

Snow Lake resides entirely within the Gila National Forest, situated in the White Mountains. The lake presents an exceptionally scenic environment at an elevation of 2,229 meters above sea level.

Ponderosa pines envelop the lake, while a camping area exists on its western side. It offers 40 developed sites alongside a boat ramp for non-motorized boats.

The optimal visiting period for Snow Lake extends from April to November, coinciding with the favorable wildlife viewing opportunity for species such as elk, bear, deer, and turkey.

12. Lake Maloya; Colfax County

As the largest of three lakes residing within Sugarite Canyon State Park, Lake Maloya is located along the New Mexico-Colorado border and serves as a vital water source for the area. Additionally, the artificial lake supports various recreational activities.

Popular activities at Lake Maloya include kayaking, canoeing, boating, and fishing. A single public boat ramp on the New Mexico side allows visitors access to this beautiful lake.

Lake Maloya is a preferred locale for birdwatchers, featuring species such as ospreys, Canada geese, bald eagles, Western grebes, great horned owls, and belted kingfishers.

13. Morphy Lake; Nora County

This 10-hectare lake is nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at an elevation of 2,397 meters above sea level. While Morphy Lake is among the smallest in New Mexico, its beauty is unmatched.

The Morphy Lake State Park envelops the lake, which provides an excellent setting for fishing, camping, and picnicking. The prohibition of motorized boats fosters a peaceful atmosphere.

Although Morphy Lake is somewhat secluded and sees less foot traffic, making it a perfect getaway, it remains accessible year-round, freezing over during the winter months.

14. Williams Lake; Taos County

This alpine lake is situated in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at an elevation exceeding 3,300 meters above sea level. It is located just below Wheeler Peak, the highest point in New Mexico!

Williams Lake is accessible exclusively by foot via the Williams Lake Trail from Taos Ski Valley, which is noted as one of the most scenic trails in the region.

Visitors will find informative signs along the trail, presenting breathtaking scenery. There’s also an inn along the path where individuals can take a break and enjoy a beverage, along with a small waterfall visible nearby.

15. Todacheene Lake; San Juan County

Todacheene Lake is located within the crater of the Narbona Pass volcano. This small lake, measuring just 1.6 hectares, was established for recreational purposes.

The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, drawing anglers from various locations. Additionally, it serves as an excellent venue for hiking and cross-country skiing.

The near 1-kilometer Todacheene Lake Trail encircles the lake and its surrounding vicinity. The trail remains open year-round and is suitable for all skill levels, including children.