Bluewater Lake State Park offers both developed and dispersed camping options around the 1,200-acre reservoir situated at 7,400 feet elevation. Visitors can access shoreline spots along the lake for primitive camping or choose from designated sites in Canyonside Campground. The park's location near Continental Divide makes it a convenient stopover for travelers on I-40, with multiple camping zones accommodating different preferences and equipment needs.
What to do
Hiking and photography trails: Church Rock Trail at Red Rock Park & Campground provides a 3-mile round trip hike with distinctive southwestern landscapes. "Church Rock Trial and Pyramid Rock Trail are both about 3 to 3 and a half miles round trip from the campground. Your surrounded by desert on one side and dark red stone on the other," reports Fain H.
Water recreation: Bluewater Lake offers more than just fishing with opportunities for paddleboarding and canoeing. "Primitive camping is all along the lake so you can park and walk right in with your canoe or SUP. Boat ramp for those so inclined and good fishing for any anglers out there," notes Sara S. in her review of Bluewater Lake.
Stargazing: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create excellent conditions for night sky viewing. "Lovely view of the lake with a gorgeous sunset," mentions Grace D. about the evening atmosphere at Bluewater Lake State Park.
What campers like
Natural tranquility: The peaceful atmosphere, especially during off-peak times, appeals to many visitors. "It is after Labor Day, the Canyonside Campground is deserted except for myself. I can hear the breeze moving through the pinions. Beautiful New Mexico sunset," shares Robert N. about his stay at Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Beyond the horses mentioned in the existing description, the area supports diverse wildlife. "We stayed away from lake because of our dogs. They tend to bark if people go by. The view to the canyon and hills was beautiful," notes Christina H. about her experience at Bluewater Lake.
Diverse camping options: The flexibility to choose between different site types suits various camping styles. "Great state run campground with options from primitive to full hook ups at great prices," states Sara S. in her review of Bluewater Lake, highlighting the range of accommodations available.
What you should know
Seasonal facility changes: Beyond just limited bathrooms, entire sections may close during winter. "There is one bathroom with sinks and flush toilets. Separate shower house was closed when we were here. I only saw one water pump in the park. There is an EV charging station," reports Jennifer W. about her April visit to Bluewater Lake.
Bathroom access policies: At Red Rock Campground, bathroom access requires specific timing. "Turns out their policy is that you get a key to the bathroom if you check in, and the office closes at 4:30pm," explains Chloe H., noting a challenge for late arrivals.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal variations with both strong winds and temperature fluctuations. "During the windy season, the sand will blast you and all equipment (bring good tie downs)," advises Judes W. about camping at Red Rock Park.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for younger visitors. "Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers, and plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use," notes Sara S. about Bluewater Lake State Park.
Educational opportunities: The geological formations provide natural learning environments. "Staying in this red rock canyon and walking the church rock and pyramid rock is a once in a lifetime experience," shares Edie & Roy T. about the educational value of visiting Red Rock Campground.
Spacing considerations: Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds. "Most cramped campsite I've ever seen, absolutely no privacy between sites," warns Anne F. about Red Rock Park, contrasting with the more spacious options at Bluewater Lake.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Most sites require minimal adjustments for RVs. "The sites with power were already taken, but we can boondock and the pull-through sites were great," explains Grace D. about Bluewater Lake, while at Red Rock Park, john M. notes, "The site was clean with 50 amp power and water, it also had a small BBQ, picknick table and was fairly level."
Reservation systems: Online booking processes vary by location. "Online booking was super easy. Almost immediately got conformation with site number and bathroom codes," shares John M. about his experience at Red Rock Park, though he adds, "There is no camp host or office. Just go to your site and hookup."
Hookup availability: Water and electricity connections exist at multiple campgrounds, though sewer options are limited. "The site was under $25 for the night. The RV dump was near our site with water to flush the system and top off water before the next adventure," notes John M. about the facilities at Red Rock Park.
