Camping sites near Conchas Dam, New Mexico sit at approximately 4,200 feet elevation in the high desert of eastern New Mexico. The region features varied terrain with sandstone mesas, juniper groves, and the expansive Conchas Lake created by the dam on the Canadian and Conchas Rivers. Campers should prepare for temperature swings of up to 40 degrees between day and night, particularly in spring and fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Conchas Lake supports multiple fish species, including bass and walleye. At North Campground Area — Conchas Lake State Park, visitors can access the lake via nearby ramps. "Very clean campground with many spots to camp overlooking the lake. Good bathrooms too," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing: Deer frequently visit camping areas around the lake. A camper at Bell Point Campground — Conchas Lake State Park noted, "Deer cover the campground. Each camp site has a covered wind break area for eating lunch. No ATVs. Kids loved it and so did dogs."
Hiking around lake shorelines: The fluctuating lake levels create interesting hiking terrain with exposed shoreline. "We did a bit of hiking around the lake area, saw a boat or two on the lake every now and then. We saw a roadrunner near our site which was really neat," shares a visitor who stayed at Bell Point campground.
What campers like
Quiet weekday atmosphere: The campgrounds at Conchas Lake offer particularly peaceful experiences outside holiday periods. "Cell service is spotty, but the view is amazing, beautiful lake, beautiful sunsets, all around a great place to stay. Off 40 a bit but 100% worth it. Great fishing, great camp host! Very very quiet," writes a camper from Bell Point Campground.
Spacious sites with wind protection: Most campsites include covered structures that serve as windbreaks. "The area is nice, for desert lakes. There are trees and more opportunities for shade in the North and Bell point campgrounds. Cove campground is quite bare but almost every site has some kind of shade structure," notes a reviewer at Cove Campground — Conchas Lake State Park.
Wildlife sightings: The desert environment supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We stayed at bell point campground and although it's still a Rocky hike to the beach the views are breathtaking. Camp was quiet enough (depends on your neighbors). Deer cover the campground," mentions another visitor.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Afternoon storms frequently roll through the area during summer months. "It's hot during the summer with storms that roll in almost every afternoon from June and start slowing down in August. Don't have anything that catches the wind up when they come," warns a camper at Cove Campground.
Lake level fluctuations: Water levels can vary significantly and affect beach access. "When the water returns it will be great again," notes a visitor to South Recreation Area Campground — Conchas Lake State Park, referring to lower water levels.
Rocky terrain challenges: The desert landscape means rocky ground at campsites. "Each site had a covered picnic table and a charcoal grill. There was easy access to drinking water and there was an access road to the lake close by," shares one visitor, though they also caution "the only downside to the park was that the tent pads were rock and gravel making it very difficult to stake a tent."
Tips for camping with families
Best kid-friendly locations: Some camping areas offer more amenities for families than others. "We stayed at bell point campground and although it's still a Rocky hike to the beach the views are breathtaking. Friendly staff - the rangers gave the kiddos a coloring book and badge when we got here."
Prepare for afternoon winds: The lake area experiences consistent wind patterns families should plan around. "When they come, the lake is nice clear and warm. Great for bass and walleye. The weekends usually have a lot of people that disappear during the week. On the weekends the lake is full of fishermen and boaters and kayaks."
Storm safety measures: Summer thunderstorms require preparation, especially with children. "April-May is a rainy and windy season. So be sure to check the weather before heading out," advises a visitor to Rocky Point Campground — Santa Rosa Lake State Park, a nearby alternative when Conchas Lake gets crowded.
Tips from RVers
Extended stays considerations: While many use Conchas Lake campgrounds as overnight stops, longer stays require planning. "We've stayed at both the 'primitive' and established campsites with a 24' trailer. It's hot during the summer with storms that roll in almost every afternoon from June and start slowing down in August."
Utility access variations: Not all campgrounds maintain consistent water service year-round. "Nice views of the lake and rocks from Bell Point campground. We stayed in site B19 and it was easy to back in to with our 20' camper. Electric was appreciated, but water was unavailable due to repairs, the dump station and showers were closed - making our stay shorter than expected."
Cell service and connectivity: For those needing to stay connected, cell reception varies by location and carrier. "ATT signal is good and Starlink worked great here, no interruptions in school, work, streaming or gaming. Loved the views, did a bit of hiking around the lake area."
