Caballo, New Mexico sits at 4,200 feet elevation, positioning it between the Caballo Mountains to the east and the Rio Grande to the west. The region generally receives less than 10 inches of rainfall annually, creating a desert camping environment where nighttime temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs. Primitive camping areas around Caballo Lake tend to have minimal shade, with native desert vegetation including mesquite and creosote bushes dominating the landscape.
What to do
Birdwatching trails: Explore the wildlife viewing opportunities near Elephant Butte Lake State Park, which attracts migratory birds throughout the year. "Wildlife: Qual, Dove, Lizards, Rabbits, Deer and more. The lake front was crowded with campers and people. Water was clear and cool with lots of carp," notes Jonathan M.
Shoreline fishing: Fish for carp and other species along the lake edges. The water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting access points. "When we got there the person at gate had no idea where the campgrounds were and would not let us check out sites without paying for day use. The campground had water shutoff on Memorial Day weekend. No bathrooms or showers," reports Brian and Janet S.
Mineral hot springs: Visit Riverbend Hot Springs in nearby Truth or Consequences for thermal soaking. "The springs at night are amazing. We got there at 9pm and there were three other people there which were hard to spot as the place is fairly large. There are multiple pools with differing temperatures. Everything was quiet and beautifully lit," describes Laura M.
What campers like
Desert hiking paths: Percha Dam State Park Campground offers riverside trails with wildlife viewing. "Tucked in next to the Rio Grande, Perch Dam Campground is quiet, clean, and enjoyable. The bathrooms were spotless and well maintained, as were the pit toilets in the dispersed area," reports Dave G.
Covered picnic structures: Most developed campsites near Caballo have protected eating areas. "Level, stone covered sites. Picnic tables under gazebo covering. Various levels of hookups. FHU to none. Ours has H2O and electric. Walking distance from lake. Garbage containers in each separate campground," notes Kevin at Appaloosa Campground.
Affordability: New Mexico state parks offer economical camping options with yearly passes providing significant discounts. "With my NM state Park pass the over night stay is $4 with water/electric 30amp regularly $14. Sites with sewer include are $18 nightly. Nice level sites and super quite at night," shares Joseph W. about Riverside Campground.
What you should know
Water system interruptions: Water availability can be unpredictable throughout Caballo campgrounds. "Very clean and well maintained. No shade for the trailer, but the covered picnic table was good. Electric hookup worked. Water was off due to water system maintenance. We were able to fill up at the campground below the dam," reports Timothy N. at Palomino Campground.
Limited shade coverage: The desert environment offers minimal natural shade outside of developed sites. "This is a pretty normal lake campground. Not a lot of shade or privacy but picnic tables and covered outdoor spaces. There are bathrooms close by and they seem fine. Quiet during the off season and nice hiking trails," explains Teresa T.
Rocky terrain considerations: Most tent sites feature rocky, hard ground surfaces. "Stayed at the Appaloosa Campground. Was surprised when we should up that we had water. Electric works great. Ground is pretty hard and rocky so wouldn't be good for tent camping," mentions Brody from Appaloosa Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: The Rio Grande below Caballo Dam provides alternative water recreation to the lake. "Caballo Lake State Park has several campgrounds that aren't represented on the Dyrt app map. We tent camped at the Riverside campground below the dam over Easter 2014. It was ok. Kind of crowded and the Rio Grande flowed shallow and muddy," notes Jacob W.
Year-round activities: Plan family visits during spring or fall for moderate temperatures. "We stayed in the river campground which is right on the Rio Grande. Lots of families and group camping. Bathrooms were old and dated (didn't use but peeked inside). Spots were level. ADA campsite was more than adequate for a wheelchair," shares Maggie C.
Educational opportunities: The dam structure and visitor center provide learning experiences about water management. "The park is very well taken care of. There are numerous trails outlined by rocks, and there's a variety of trails to go down to the Caballo Lake reservoir," states Jeffrey T.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: For RV camping at Caballo Lake RV Park, choose sites away from the main road to reduce noise. "Campground is very nice with great views. Grounds are well kept. Bathhouse is clean. Water in the showers are annoying because it auto cuts off after about 10-15 seconds and you have to keep it going for at least a minute or two to get hot water," advises Brett D.
Hookup variations: Different campground sections offer varying levels of RV services. "After spending 10 days here, it's time to give a review! We stayed at site 12, in the Appaloosa campground. The sites are all pull through with water, electric (20 amp and 30 amp), and shelter; and the dump station surrounded by a cactus garden, makes the nasty job of dumping a little more palatable," explains Dave G.
Weather preparation: Protect RVs from extreme temperature fluctuations with additional insulation during winter months. "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," recommends Eric L.
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