Ute Lake State Park lies at approximately 4,000 feet elevation in northeastern New Mexico, creating a desert oasis environment with significant seasonal temperature variations. The 13-mile-long reservoir attracts numerous waterfowl species including cranes, geese, and wild turkeys that frequent camping areas year-round. Water levels fluctuate based on irrigation demands and seasonal precipitation patterns.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Ute Lake hosts diverse bird populations throughout the year. At Logan Park — Ute Lake State Park, visitors regularly spot large flocks of migratory birds. "We watched hundreds of cranes, geese, ducks, and many more (we are not bird watchers normally but it is hard not to bring out the binoculars). In the morning we had 10 grazing turkeys outside our RV," notes a camper at Yucca campground.
Water recreation: The shallow shoreline at New Cottonwood campground allows for extended wading. "Beautiful beach is on the lake you can walk out for a long distance due to the shallowness it's a Damned reservoir the water is super nice lots of places to swim," explains a visitor to New Cottonwood — Ute Lake State Park.
Hiking: A 2.4-mile nature trail connects several lake viewing points from Logan campground. "The CG has is a trailhead for the 2.4 mile park nature walk. It's a nice trail, with several lake viewing areas along it," reports a visitor who stayed at site 23.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Despite appearances on reservation maps, many campgrounds offer surprisingly roomy camping spots. At Yucca — Ute Lake State Park, a visitor mentions, "There is an abundance of large (long and wide), level pull-through sites for RVs. When you book on Reserve America, and even on the local map, the sites look like they are packed like sardines but that is not the case at all. You have plenty of space."
Budget-friendly pricing: The state park campgrounds maintain reasonable rates for both basic and serviced sites. "I'm currently in a no hookup site $10 plus $4 for reserving. Quiet, beautiful beach area, boat launch. 14 day stay limit," reports one camper at New Cottonwood.
Cell service: Connectivity varies by provider with strong signals for major carriers. "Good cell service for both Verizon and AT&T," mentions a visitor to Zia — Ute Lake State Park, while another notes, "Cell reception is excellent (ATT)" at Yucca campground.
What you should know
Seasonal facilities: Bathroom and shower availability changes throughout the year. "Made reservations for Ute Lake State Park arrived minutes after the office closed. As evening progressed we wanted to use the facilities and take a shower. They were locked with no sign of opening. When we checked with ranger station in the morning we found that facilities would not open till Memorial weekend or later. Web site needs to notify campers of the no facilities," cautions a spring visitor.
Water pressure issues: RV parks near Logan, New Mexico often have unusually high water pressure. At Blaze-In-Saddle RV Park in nearby Tucumcari, visitors consistently warn about plumbing concerns. "High water pressure: do install a pressure reducer. I've seen firsthand people blowing out their water lines here," advises one camper. Another mentions, "The water pressure is high so you will need a pressure limiter on your system but not to worry, they will let you use one for free or buy one if you want."
WiFi limitations: Internet access often requires payment or has time restrictions. "They do offer 30 minutes per day for free, but I couldn't get but a few KB/s on it. I didn't buy the service, so I'm not sure how fast the paid service is," explains a Logan campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds have play areas for children. "The playground was very nice and shaded," notes a visitor to Ute Lake, while another camper at Tucumcari KOA mentions, "Staff was friendly and made my kids feel right at home."
Beware sand burrs: Plants with painful seed pods grow throughout the region. "Our dog didn't encounter too many sand burrs on the trail, but be advised, the evil little things are everywhere else and imbed themselves in everything," warns a Logan campground visitor.
Weekend crowds: Expect more noise and activity during summer weekends. "We loved the lake but unfortunately the camp was pretty rowdy, a set of headlights shone into our tent until 1 am. We had small kids with us who couldn't sleep," reports a family staying at Zia campground.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through access: Most rv parks near Logan, New Mexico feature convenient pull-through sites that accommodate staying hitched for overnight stops. At Mountain Road RV Park in Tucumcari, a visitor notes, "Pull thru spots were long enough to leave the truck attached to the camper (17') for the one night that turned into two because of weather."
Location convenience: For travelers along I-40 seeking quick overnight stops, multiple options exist within minutes of the highway. "Easy off and onto I-40. Friendly staff and reasonably priced. It's rather desolate around the RV park but it's great for a short stay," comments a Mountain Road RV Park visitor.
Supply access: Grocery and hardware options exist but with limited selection. "Grocery store is about a mile away and have a decent beer, wine and liquor selection. There's also a hardware store and a tractor supply within about a mile," reports a visitor to Blaze-In-Saddle RV Park.
