Elephant Butte Lake State Park surrounds New Mexico's largest reservoir at an elevation of 4,300 feet. The water level fluctuates seasonally, with the lake currently at about 5% capacity according to recent reports. Despite low water levels, the park offers multiple camping options with varying degrees of amenities and access to recreational opportunities.
What to do
Kayaking options: Bring your own kayak or rent one at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. The Rio Grande provides an alternative when lake levels are low. "My favorite part is grabbing a floaty and float down to caballo lake a smaller lake that connects by river," shares Christy L.
Hiking and biking trails: Access trails directly from South Monticello Campground for desert exploration. "There is a great hiking and mountain biking trail right out of the campground which winds between all the other park roads, picnic areas and amenities on the western side of the lake," notes Shari G., who adds that "the trail is relatively new and in most areas is graveled."
Wildlife viewing: Observe desert wildlife throughout the park, especially at quieter campgrounds. "Wildlife: Qual, Dove, Lizards, Rabbits, Deer and more," reports Jonathan M. about his experience at the park.
Hot springs soaking: Visit one of several hot spring facilities in nearby Truth or Consequences, just 5 miles south. The mineral waters provide relaxation after outdoor activities. "They have multiple pools to chose from and for privacy. They have running water and showers too," explains Alyssa L.
What campers like
Affordability: State park camping remains budget-friendly compared to private facilities. "For only $4 a night includes 30Amp and water. I have about 20 channels available, wifi works well and no problems with my Verizon service," reports Joseph W.
Winter camping: Many campers prefer the park during off-peak months for milder temperatures and fewer crowds. "This very popular state park, on the edge of the Elephant Butte reservoir, is a great wintertime get away," writes one visitor to South Monticello Campground. Another adds, "camping here in the winter provides very livable temperatures."
Dispersed camping options: For campers seeking more solitude and flexibility, free camping areas provide alternatives to established campgrounds. "Free camping (14 days) on the riverside! Amazing. Perfect for van life. Space for big rigs too but only a couple big turnaround spots so just be strategic about it," notes Johnny W. about riverside camping options.
Views: Many campsites offer scenic vistas across the lake basin and surrounding mountains. "Loops A, B, and C of Lions Beach are terraces high above Elephant Butte Lake. Spectacular lake views! Loop B (sites 66 thru 79) is particularly sweet because the sites back up to the edge of the terrace for gorgeous lake views right from your camper window," reports Stuart O.
What you should know
Shower facilities: Quality varies significantly between campground loops. "The showers are the push button type where you only get 60 seconds of water at a time, which is ok, but the facilities are very run down and clearly not cleaned too often," notes Jessica C.
Seasonal heat: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, affecting comfort and safety. "We were here in early June and the day temperatures were in the low 100's with very low humidity," reports Mike H. from Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for desert wildlife in and around campsites. "We did notice mice in the campsite and this probably contributed to us finding a rattlesnake in front of the door to the bathroom one night," warns Bob F.
Road conditions: Access to some areas requires driving on unpaved roads. "This road is not maintained at all but is passable but has alot of potholes. There are a few spots right of hwy 25 and more down the road," explains Chelsea P. about the Monticello Road dispersed camping area.
Tips for camping with families
Optimal campground selection: Choose campgrounds with amenities appropriate for your family's needs. "Sandy beaches in most places we camped, great for privacy and space away from others. Inner-tubbeing and boat space... Bathrooms/showers decent but can be a drive depending on camp site," advises Desire B.
Spacing between sites: Some campgrounds offer more separation between campsites than others. "Good size spots with good distance between sites. Ramadas at each site provide precious shade. Lots of trash bins nearby," notes Julie F. about South Monticello Campground.
Festival timing: Plan your visit around scheduled events for enhanced family activities. "Nice marina and has some amazing festivals through out the year," suggests a camper about Monticello Road Dispersed Camping.
Beach access considerations: Beach camping areas can become crowded during peak seasons. "The lake front was crowded with campers and people. Water was clear and cool with lots of carp," reports Jonathan M., suggesting families might prefer the more structured campgrounds away from the immediate shoreline.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific requirements rather than just location. "We stayed on the B loop in spot 86, with a 40 foot motorhome. It was easy to get in and out. We have a water hook up and a thirty amp hookup but no sewer," shares Tj R.
Sand hazards: Be cautious when considering beachfront camping with large rigs. "It's also surrounded by soft sand which a poop ton of people get stuck in if you don't have the right vehicle," warns Brittany N., while another camper mentioned talking to "a guy that had to get towed out of the sand yesterday."
Signal quality: Connectivity is generally good throughout the area. "Very clean park. Concrete roads and gravel sites. Very nice shower/laundry facility. Sites are a little close upfront and the road noise can be a bit of an issue. Good cell service with Verizon and AT&T," reports an RVer at Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
Wind exposure: Some campgrounds offer better wind protection than others. "I love the Elephant Butte State Park and have stayed around 4 times. February 2024 I spent a week there in my small travel trailer. It can be quite windy in Feb/Mar so before booking I called the park office and asked which campground might be more wind sheltered. They suggested Quail Run so that is what I booked."
