Bottomless Lakes State Park offers glamping and camping opportunities 12 miles east of Roswell, New Mexico. Sites range from full hookup RV spaces to primitive camping around the various lakes, with elevations averaging 3,500 feet above sea level. The park's sinkholes, formed by underground cavern collapses, create the illusion of bottomless water bodies with their deep blue-green coloration. Camping facilities include both developed and more remote options.
What to do
Paddle sports on Lea Lake: During warmer months, rent paddleboards at Bottomless Lakes State Park for exploring the main lake. "Super fun day trip with friends. You can rent paddle boards for cheap, and the water is surprisingly clear and blue. It's a kind of oasis for people surrounded by dirt and cacti," reports Savannah D.
Wildlife viewing at Bitter Lake: When camping near Roswell, consider a day trip to the Bitter Lake Wildlife Refuge for birding, particularly during migration seasons. "Traveling back from Texas, I had planned an overnight in this State Park. Due to weather, I ended up staying 3 additional days. The sand cranes were arriving and it was interesting to see them create line formations in the valleys," shares Charyle C.
Fishing at Lake Van: Lake Van in Dexter offers fishing opportunities year-round with a stocked lake just 15 minutes south of Roswell. "Great fishing and camping right in town," notes Matthew K., while another camper added, "It's a City Park campground but well maintained and a well-stocked Lake."
What campers like
Quiet surroundings: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful environment at Bottomless Lakes, particularly during weekdays. "It is really beautiful out here. We love the views around our campsite. I would love to come back here," writes Lauren Z.
Budget-friendly options: Basic camping at Lake Van provides economical glamping near Roswell, New Mexico with minimal facilities. "Although a bit rough around the edges, if you are traveling in SE New Mexico, this location is great for an overnighter. The gentleman who answered was very friendly and let us know that we could camp anywhere around the lake for $9," explains Gil W.
Clean facilities: When properly maintained, the campgrounds receive positive reviews for cleanliness. "Bottomless Lake State Park is a gem of a campground. Nestled 12 miles from RT 380, this campground has to be one of the quietest we've ever stayed at. There are 7 lakes here for all to discover and enjoy," says Dave G.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Visitors report inconsistent bathroom maintenance at Lea Lake Campground. "Three womens showers, 1 locked, 1 a trickle and 1 barely a trickle. Mens showers: 3. Water was not warm. The park is nice...bathrooms need work and cleaning," warns Donna C.
Water quality considerations: Some lakes have better water conditions than others. "We thought we were going to be paddleboarding in a big lake or sinkhole, but we were sadly mistaken. There are other sinkholes you can enjoy, but I wouldn't go in them. The water is stagnant and smells like rotting fish," notes Julissa M.
Seasonal operations: Check opening dates and availability before planning your trip. When visiting Lake Van, one camper reported, "We were travelling through in late September and the camping appeared to be shut down for the season. No one around and just a few back in sites for RVs."
