Caballo Lake State Park and Percha Dam State Park offer camping options within 10 miles of Arrey, New Mexico. Located in Sierra County at an elevation of about 4,300 feet, these desert campgrounds experience hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and mild winters. The Rio Grande flows through this region, creating opportunities for water recreation despite the arid landscape.
What to do
Birding along the Rio Grande: Percha Dam State Park Campground attracts diverse bird species year-round. "The positive is weekday birding... Just this summer I've seen 1 painted bunting, summer tanagers, Bullocks orioles, sandhill cranes - even a couple of vermillion flycatchers," reports one visitor to Percha Dam State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Caballo Lake: The lake provides calm waters for paddling. "The lake is great with easy access for kayaking at the boat ramp," notes a camper at Palomino Campground. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, so check conditions before visiting.
Hiking the shoreline trails: Multiple trails surround the lake and river areas. "There are numerous trails outlined by rocks, and there's a variety of trails to go down to the Caballo Lake reservoir," mentions a camper who stayed at Palomino Loop.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Most campgrounds in the area experience lower visitation Monday through Thursday. "Perch Dam Campground is quiet, clean, and enjoyable. The bathrooms were spotless and well maintained, as were the pit toilets in the dispersed area," says a visitor to Riverside Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse desert and riparian wildlife. "Waking up with calls from the cranes across the lake made my day happy! You'll enjoy the sounds of night creatures," writes a camper at Stallion Campground.
Budget-friendly options: New Mexico State Park passes significantly reduce camping costs. "With my NM state Park pass the overnight stay is $4 with water/electric 30amp regularly $14. Sites with sewer include are $18 nightly," explains a camper at Riverside.
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: Many sites offer minimal natural shade. "I stayed here in 2018 and the trees didn't look very good. They must have had to remove a lot of them and the spots are now in the sun. Very hot and dry most of the year," warns a camper at Percha Dam.
Thorny vegetation hazards: Goathead thorns present a risk throughout the area. "Goathead thorns are everywhere, watch your dog's paws," cautions a visitor at Appaloosa Campground.
Inconsistent bathroom maintenance: Facilities vary in cleanliness and functionality. "Showers and restrooms ok but not cleaned every day," notes a camper at Percha Dam, while others mention "the water is too hot to shower with in July/Aug" in some facilities.
Seasonal water levels: The Rio Grande doesn't always have reliable flow. "The river doesn't run most of the year either," reports a visitor, affecting fishing and water recreation opportunities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with covered picnic areas: Many campgrounds offer sheltered tables. "Picnic tables under gazebo covering. Various levels of hookups. FHU to none," describes a visitor at Appaloosa Campground.
Visit during spring for wildflowers: March through May typically offers milder temperatures and occasional desert blooms. "Very helpful staff. The place was very clean and spacious. There are plenty of places to hike and fish. Great place to take the family to create memories," shares an Appaloosa camper.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Arrey: Most sites welcome pets with standard leash rules. "We stayed in the river campground which is right on the Rio Grande... It was nice to walk along the riverbank with the dogs," mentions a visitor to Lakeview RV Park, which also offers cabin options for those seeking alternatives to tent camping.
Tips from RVers
Best sites for larger rigs: Several campgrounds can accommodate larger vehicles. "Most sites easily can fit a 35 - 40 foot rig. There is water and electric (15, 30, 50 amp) at all reserved sites," notes a visitor at Percha Dam.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have on-site dump facilities. "The only drawback, no RV dump station on site; you'll need to go to Caballo SP to dump," advises an RVer.
Campsite surface conditions: Sites vary in levelness and composition. "Level, stone covered sites," reports a camper at Appaloosa, while others note, "Ground is pretty hard and rocky so wouldn't be good for tent camping."
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