Storrie Lake State Park

A Guide to Camping and Recreation

Storrie Lake State Park is a serene and picturesque park located near historic Las Vegas in New Mexico. The park is centered around a beautiful lake that offers visitors a wide range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Storrie Lake State Park is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in New Mexico, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The lake is surrounded by scenic mountains and is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular spot for bird watching and wildlife photography. Visitors can choose from 6 developed and 45 primitive campsites with utility hookups for RVs, boat docks, boat ramps, and water ski slopes. The park also offers a variety of amenities and facilities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms to ensure visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

• Storrie Lake State Park offers a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Visitors can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and camping.
• The park offers a variety of amenities and facilities to ensure visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Recreational Activities

Storrie Lake State Park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are a fishing enthusiast, an avid hiker or just looking for a relaxing day at the beach, Storrie Lake has something for everyone.

Fishing

Storrie Lake is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is stocked regularly with rainbow trout, tiger trout, channel catfish, and other species of fish. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent boats and jet skis from local vendors to enhance their fishing experience. Fishing licenses are required and can be obtained at the visitor center.

Boating and Windsurfing

Boating is a popular activity at Storrie Lake. Visitors can bring their own boats or rent them from local vendors. The lake is suitable for both motorized and non-motorized boats, including canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Windsurfing is also a popular activity at Storrie Lake due to the lake’s consistent winds.

Swimming and Beach Camping

Storrie Lake has a designated swimming area for visitors to enjoy. The beach area is also suitable for picnicking, sunbathing, and beach camping. Visitors can reserve campsites online or at the visitor center. The campsites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and showers.

Hiking and Bird Watching

Storrie Lake State Park has several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate and are suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Bird watching is also a popular activity at Storrie Lake due to the park’s diverse bird population. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons.

In summary, Storrie Lake State Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, windsurfing, swimming, hiking, picnicking, volleyball, and bird watching. The park’s beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.

Amenities and Facilities

Storrie Lake State Park offers a range of amenities and facilities to make visitors’ stay comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the key amenities and facilities:

Campsites and RV Accommodations

Storrie Lake State Park has six campgrounds with a total of 45 developed campsites. Visitors can choose from a variety of campsites, including those with water and electric hookups, as well as tent-only sites. RVs up to 40 feet long can be accommodated at the park’s campsites.

Visitor Center and Group Shelters

The park’s visitor center provides information on the park’s history, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. The center also has a small store that sells souvenirs and basic camping supplies. In addition, Storrie Lake State Park has two group picnic shelters that can be reserved for events.

Restrooms and Showers

Storrie Lake State Park has modern restroom facilities with flush toilets and sinks. The park also has showers available for visitors to use.

Overall, Storrie Lake State Park offers a range of amenities and facilities that make it a great destination for camping, boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Whether visitors are looking for a quiet retreat or an action-packed adventure, Storrie Lake State Park has something to offer.

Note: The park does not have an RV dump station, but vault toilets are available throughout the park for visitors to use.

Historical Significance

Storrie Lake State Park has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The park is located just 4 miles north of Las Vegas, New Mexico, a city with a long and storied past. The park sits on land that was once part of the Las Vegas Land Grant, a Spanish land grant that was issued in 1835.

Las Vegas Land Grant

The Las Vegas Land Grant was a significant event in the history of New Mexico. The grant was issued by the Mexican government to a group of settlers, and it covered an area of over 1 million acres. The land grant included the area that is now Storrie Lake State Park, as well as much of the surrounding land.

Old West Characters

The park is also linked to some of the most famous characters of the Old West. Doc Holliday, Billy the Kid, and Wyatt Earp are just a few of the names that are associated with the area. Las Vegas was a popular stop on the Santa Fe Trail, and many of these characters passed through the city on their way west.

Despite its rich history, Storrie Lake State Park is now a peaceful and serene place. Visitors can enjoy fishing, bird watching, and windsurfing on the lake, or they can explore the remnants of the Santa Fe Trail that can still be found in the area. The park is a reminder of the rich history of New Mexico, and it is a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West.

Park Information

Location and Access

Storrie Lake State Park is a state park located in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The park is situated at Highway 518, Mile Marker 3.5, which is easily accessible by car. The address of the park is 15 NM-518, Las Vegas, NM 87701. Visitors can reach the park from the city center of Las Vegas within a few minutes by car.

Operating Hours and Contact

Storrie Lake State Park is open year-round and has different operating hours for different seasons. From October to March, the park is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, while from April to September, the park is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Visitors can contact the park office at (505) 425-7278 for more information.

The park is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm the park’s operating hours during holidays or inclement weather.

The park is managed by the New Mexico State Parks Division. Visitors can make reservations for camping online or by calling the reservation center at 1-877-664-7787. It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season.

Note that pets are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Visitors are also advised to pack out all trash and leave no trace. The park is a public property, and visitors are expected to respect the park’s rules and regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of camping accommodations are available at Storrie Lake State Park?

Storrie Lake State Park offers six campgrounds with a total of 70 campsites. The campgrounds are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. Drinking water, restrooms, and showers are also available. The campsites can accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers of various sizes.

How can I make a reservation for camping at Storrie Lake State Park?

Camping reservations can be made online through the New Mexico State Parks reservation system. Visitors can also call the park office to make a reservation over the phone. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.

What activities are popular in the vicinity of Storrie Lake State Park?

Storrie Lake State Park is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include the Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, the Pecos National Historical Park, and the Santa Fe National Forest.

What species of fish can be caught in Storrie Lake?

Storrie Lake is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and channel catfish. Other species that can be caught include largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. Fishing is permitted year-round, but a valid New Mexico fishing license is required.

Are there any historical sites to explore near Storrie Lake State Park?

Yes, there are several historical sites to explore near Storrie Lake State Park. The Pecos National Historical Park, located about 30 miles from the park, features ancient Puebloan ruins and a 17th-century Spanish mission. The Las Vegas Plaza Historic District, located in the nearby town of Las Vegas, features Victorian-era architecture and historic buildings.

How does the water level at Storrie Lake affect recreational activities?

The water level at Storrie Lake can affect recreational activities such as boating and fishing. During periods of low water levels, boat ramps may be closed and boating may be restricted to non-motorized watercraft. Fishing may also be affected, as some species of fish may become less active or move to deeper water. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or call the park office for current water level and recreational activity information.

 

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