El Vado Lake State Park

A Guide to Camping, Fishing, and Hiking in Northern New Mexico

El Vado Lake State Park, located in Tierra Amarilla, NM, is a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure. Situated amidst the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this scenic state park spans over 3,200 acres and offers a pristine escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The park boasts a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. With a scenic 5.5-mile trail along the Rio Chama connecting El Vado with nearby Heron Lake, visitors can take in the beautiful natural surroundings while enjoying a leisurely walk or bike ride.

The lake itself offers opportunities for fishing, with quiet coves around the lake providing great spots to catch trout and kokanee salmon. Additionally, El Vado Lake State Park has a designated swimming area for visitors looking to cool off during hot summer days. While swimming is allowed throughout the day, visitors should exercise caution as lifeguards are not available, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Main Points

• El Vado Lake State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and winter sports.
• Visitors can enjoy a scenic 5.5-mile trail along the Rio Chama, connecting El Vado with nearby Heron Lake.
• The lake provides opportunities for fishing and swimming, but visitors should exercise caution as lifeguards are not available, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Overview of El Vado Lake State Park

El Vado Lake State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts located in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. The park covers an area of 1,730 acres and offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, winter cross-country skiing, hiking, and camping.

Visitors to El Vado Lake State Park will find a variety of recreational opportunities available. The park’s main attraction is the 3,200-acre El Vado Lake, which provides excellent fishing and boating opportunities. The lake is stocked with trout and kokanee salmon, making it a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can also rent boats and kayaks at the park’s marina.

El Vado Lake State Park has three campgrounds with a total of 80 single-family campsites situated around the lake. The campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including potable water, flush and vault toilets, showers, and a dump station. Group camping and primitive beach/boat-in camping are also available.

The park also offers a 5.5-mile scenic trail along the Rio Chama that connects El Vado with nearby Heron Lake. The trail is popular with hikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the lake. In the winter, the trail is open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Overall, El Vado Lake State Park is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing camping trip or an action-packed day on the lake, El Vado Lake State Park is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors in New Mexico.

Recreational Activities

El Vado Lake State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking and trails, camping, wildlife and birding, and winter activities.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity at El Vado Lake State Park. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, making it a great place to cast a line. Quiet coves around the lake are great places to catch trout and kokanee salmon.

Boating

Boating is another popular activity at El Vado Lake State Park. The lake has a boat ramp and allows motorized boats for water-skiing and other water sports. Visitors can also rent boats from nearby marinas.

Hiking and Trails

El Vado Lake State Park has a 5.5-mile scenic trail along the Rio Chama that connects El Vado with nearby Heron Lake. The trail offers stunning views of the northern mountains and rugged terrain. There are also several hiking trails within the park that offer a variety of difficulty levels.

Camping

El Vado Lake State Park has a campground with 80 campsites, including sites with full hookups and electric. The campground also has showers, picnic sites, shelters, and playgrounds. Visitors can also find dump stations and safe drinking water within the park.

Wildlife and Birding

El Vado Lake State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and waterfowl. Visitors can enjoy birding and wildlife viewing throughout the park.

Winter Activities

El Vado Lake State Park is a popular wintering ground for bald eagles and offers winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The park also has stunning views of the snow-covered mountains.

Amenities and Facilities

El Vado Lake State Park offers a variety of amenities and facilities to make visitors’ stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Restrooms and Showers

There are several restrooms and shower facilities located throughout the park, providing a convenient and hygienic option for visitors. These facilities are regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure optimal cleanliness and functionality.

Picnic and Cooking Areas

El Vado Lake State Park has several picnic areas equipped with tables, fire rings, and grills for visitors to use. These areas are perfect for enjoying a meal with family and friends while taking in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Boat Launching Facilities

Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the multiple boat ramps located throughout the park, making it easy to launch boats and other watercraft. Visitors are reminded to wear life jackets and follow all safety regulations while on the lake.

Camping Options

El Vado Lake State Park offers a range of camping options, from developed campsites with full hookups to primitive beach/boat-in camping. Visitors can choose between first-come, first-served sites or reserve a spot in advance through the reservation section on the park’s website. Dumping stations are also available for RVs and other vehicles.

Overall, El Vado Lake State Park provides a comprehensive range of facilities and amenities to ensure visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Safety and Regulations

Water Safety

El Vado Lake State Park is a popular destination for water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. It is important to note that all visitors are required to wear a life jacket while boating. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the potential dangers of strong winds and sudden weather changes that can occur on the lake. It is recommended to check weather forecasts before heading out on the water.

Camping and Fire Safety

Camping at El Vado Lake State Park is available on a first come, first served basis or by reservation. Visitors should be aware of the park’s regulations regarding campfires and should only use designated fire rings for their fires. It is important to never leave a fire unattended and to make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving the campsite.

Wildlife Interaction

El Vado Lake State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid interactions with wildlife. This includes properly storing food and garbage, keeping a safe distance from wildlife, and not approaching or feeding any animals.

Overall, El Vado Lake State Park is a safe and enjoyable destination for visitors who follow the park’s regulations and guidelines.

Natural Features

Flora and Fauna

El Vado Lake State Park is located in the northern mountains of New Mexico, surrounded by rugged terrain and towering trees. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including sagebrush, pinon pine, and ponderosa pine. Wildlife such as bald eagles and waterfowl can also be spotted in the area.

Geography and Terrain

El Vado Lake is a reservoir created by the El Vado Dam, which was constructed in 1935. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its scenic views and diverse terrain. The park offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and boating.

The area surrounding El Vado Lake State Park is characterized by its rugged terrain, with steep cliffs and deep canyons. The park is also home to a variety of geological features, including rock formations and ancient river gravels.

Overall, El Vado Lake State Park is a unique and beautiful destination for nature lovers. Its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and array of outdoor activities make it a must-visit location for anyone traveling to northern New Mexico.

Planning Your Visit

Accommodations and Reservations

El Vado Lake State Park offers a variety of camping options for visitors, including developed campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, as well as primitive camping areas for those seeking a more secluded experience. Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by phone.

For those who prefer to camp in comfort, there are also cabins available for rent. These cabins come equipped with basic amenities such as heating and air conditioning, as well as a kitchenette and bathroom facilities.

Visitor Tips and Information

Visitors to El Vado Lake State Park should be aware that the park is located in a remote area, and cell phone service may be limited. Verizon appears to be the most reliable carrier in the area.

The park is a popular destination, especially during the summer months, so visitors are encouraged to make reservations in advance. However, there are also first come, first served campsites available for those who prefer a more spontaneous camping experience.

Visitors should also be aware that the park is a wildlife reserve, and beef cattle may be present in some areas. Additionally, the park is located in a high desert environment, with vegetation consisting primarily of sagebrush, pinon pine, and ponderosa pine.

Accessibility and Connectivity

El Vado Lake State Park is accessible by car, and there are several boat ramps available for those who wish to bring their own watercraft. The park also offers restroom facilities, showers, and trash bins for visitor convenience. A dumping station is also available for RVs.

For those who require connectivity, there is limited Wi-Fi available in the campground, but it is recommended that visitors bring their own mobile hotspots if they require reliable internet access.

Overall, visitors to El Vado Lake State Park can expect a clean, organized, and friendly camping experience, with knowledgeable staff members available to answer any questions and provide assistance.

Local Attractions

El Vado Lake State Park is surrounded by a plethora of attractions, from natural wonders to cultural and historical sites. Visitors can explore the beauty of the Rio Chama and Heron Lake, as well as the surrounding parks and trails.

Nearby Parks and Lakes

Heron Lake State Park is located just a few miles from El Vado Lake State Park and is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The lake covers over 5,800 acres and is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and northern pike. The park also offers several hiking trails, including the 5.5-mile scenic trail that connects Heron Lake and El Vado Lake.

Cultural and Historical Sites

The El Vado Dam, located within the park, is a notable historical site. The dam was built in the 1930s as part of a project to provide water to the Rio Grande Valley. Visitors can take a tour of the dam and learn about its construction and history.

The town of Tierra Amarilla, located just a few miles from the park, is also home to several cultural and historical sites. The Tierra Amarilla Courthouse, built in 1882, is a notable example of Territorial-style architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse played a significant role in the Chicano Movement of the 1960s and 1970s and is now home to a museum that showcases the history of the area.

Overall, visitors to El Vado Lake State Park have a wide range of attractions to explore, from the natural beauty of the surrounding lakes and trails to the rich cultural and historical heritage of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of accommodations are available at El Vado Lake State Park?

El Vado Lake State Park offers a variety of accommodations for visitors. The park has two campgrounds, which offer both primitive and developed campsites. The developed campsites include amenities such as water and electrical hookups, while the primitive campsites are more secluded and offer a more rustic experience. There are also several picnic areas throughout the park, as well as a group shelter that can be reserved for events.

Are fishing permits required for fishing in El Vado Lake?

Yes, fishing permits are required for fishing in El Vado Lake. These permits can be purchased at the park office or at one of the self-serve kiosks located throughout the park. The park also has a fish cleaning station available for use by visitors.

What are the camping reservation policies for El Vado Lake State Park?

Camping reservations can be made up to six months in advance and are recommended, especially during peak season. Reservations can be made online or by calling the park office. There is a two-night minimum stay for weekend reservations and a three-night minimum stay for holiday weekends.

Can you describe the trail system around El Vado Lake State Park?

El Vado Lake State Park has several trails available for hiking and mountain biking. The most popular trail is the Rio Chama Trail, which connects El Vado Lake with nearby Heron Lake. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. The park also has several shorter trails that offer a variety of terrain and difficulty levels.

What are the boating regulations at El Vado Lake State Park?

Boating is allowed on El Vado Lake, but there are several regulations in place to ensure the safety of visitors. All boats must be registered and display a current registration sticker. There are also restrictions on boat speed and wake size, and life jackets must be worn by all passengers on board.

Are there any restrictions on activities within El Vado Lake State Park?

Yes, there are several restrictions on activities within El Vado Lake State Park. Visitors are not allowed to bring in firewood from outside the park, and fires are only allowed in designated fire rings. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and visitors are not allowed to disturb or harm any wildlife or plant species within the park.

Interested in other New Mexico State Parks? See all 34 New Mexico State Parks