The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Map showing campground location near Quemado, New Mexico
Camper submitted image from Cove - Quemado LakeView 9 Photos
PeopleMap showing campground location near Quemado, New Mexico

Cove - Quemado Lake

2 ReviewsAdd Review

Within Apache National Forest, Cove - Quemado Lake operates as a US Forest Service day-use area that also accommodates camping. The site sits in forested terrain near the lake's edge, providing direct water access for fishing and paddling activities. Campers can drive directly to the area, which includes drinking water, restrooms, and trash service.

The facility features both paved and dirt pathways leading toward the water, though reviewers note the immediate shoreline can be swampy in places. A designated boat launch area offers better lake access than the grassy water's edge. For extended stays, campers exploring camping near Apache National Forest will find additional options like Juniper Campground (Quemado Lake) less than half a mile away. Note that pets are not permitted at this location.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Route 66 Road Trip

Camping The Route 66 Road Trip

Route 66 Road Trip Segment: Amarillo, TX to Kingman

Amarillo to Kingman: 4 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Location

Public Campground

Cove - Quemado Lake is located in New Mexico

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

34.134222 N
108.491175 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 3/29/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 3/29/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

New Mexico Contest

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

50%
0%
50%
0%
0%

4.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Robert A.
Reviewed Sep. 3, 2018

4th of July

Stayed here during 4th of July stayed in the group site . It’s a large area with water and a lot of parking. It has a large shade with several picnic tables and a fire ring. The down side it’s a ways from the lake at the top of the hill. Lots of things for kids to do here, this is a great area to take your family.

SiteGroup site
Month of VisitJuly
Travis D.
Reviewed May. 30, 2017

Convenient Access to The Water

We used this as a launching spot for some stand-up paddle boarding on the lake. We camped further up the road at El Caso (see my review!). Because we were camped further away this day use parking area was just what we needed and it served it's purpose well.

The site has good bathrooms and a paved path heading one direction and a dirt path the other - or you can head straight through the grass out to the water's edge - which is what we did. If we had it to do over again we would use the the actual boat launch because the swampy edge was tough on the little one (3 yr old).

TIP - if you are fishing it seems like the way to do it it is to park on the road between this spot and the boat launch area and head straight down to the water- that's what the locals were doing anyway.

SiteEl Caso!
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Cove - Quemado Lake by Travis D., May 30, 2017
  • Review photo of Cove - Quemado Lake by Travis D., May 30, 2017
  • Review photo of Cove - Quemado Lake by Travis D., May 30, 2017
  • (9) View All
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What fishing opportunities are available at Quemado Lake?

Quemado Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities with easy water access. The lake is a popular destination for anglers, with the Cove area providing a convenient launching spot for fishing activities. While specific fish species aren't detailed, the lake's popularity suggests good fishing potential. The lake accommodates various water activities that complement fishing, including stand-up paddle boarding. For the most current fishing conditions, regulations, and stocking information, check with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish before your trip.

How do I get to Quemado Lake Campground?

Quemado Lake Campground is accessible via a paved road, making it convenient for most vehicles. The Cove area features day-use parking with good facilities, perfect for those wanting to enjoy the lake without staying overnight. If you're planning to camp, look for signs directing you to the campground areas. The lake has multiple access points, with the Cove area providing convenient lake access for activities like paddle boarding and other water sports.

How far is Quemado Lake Campground from Albuquerque?

Quemado Lake Campground is approximately 150 miles west of Albuquerque, making it about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive depending on traffic and route taken. The drive takes you through scenic parts of New Mexico, and the campground's remoteness offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Plan your trip with enough time to arrive during daylight hours for easier navigation, especially if you're visiting for the first time. Consider making it a weekend destination if traveling from Albuquerque due to the driving distance.

Keep Exploring