Caballo Lake State Park sits approximately 16 miles south of Truth or Consequences at 4,200 feet elevation, offering campers a less crowded alternative to Elephant Butte Lake. The area features desert scrubland interspersed with cottonwood groves near the water's edge. Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting beach access and boat launching conditions at most campgrounds in the region.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: Caballo Lake provides excellent conditions for paddlers seeking a quieter experience than larger lakes. "Great place to kayak especially when the sun rises you will see it over the mountains. My favorite part about caballo lake is floating down from elephant butte to caballo lake in a giant floaty," notes a visitor to Caballo Lake RV Park.
Hiking desert trails: The trail system at South Monticello Campground offers hiking and mountain biking opportunities through desert terrain. "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," according to a camper at South Monticello Campground.
Mineral hot springs soaking: The town's historic hot springs are a major draw for visitors staying at specialty accommodations. "It includes access to incredible mineral water baths built out of kitschy farm troughs! The sites are separated by corrugated walls, so there is a nice amount of privacy while still having a cozy, vintage, community feel," shares a guest at Hot Springs Glamp Camp.
What campers like
Desert wildlife viewing: South Monticello Campground offers opportunities to observe desert animals in their natural habitat. "Wildlife: Qual, Dove, Lizards, Rabbits, Deer and more," reports one camper about their experience at the campground.
Affordability of state park sites: The region's state parks offer excellent value compared to private campgrounds. "I used my NM state park pass on this stay and 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," mentions a visitor at Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
Privacy between sites: Hot Springs Glamp Camp offers an unusual level of privacy for a compact campground. "The sites are separated by corrugated walls, so there is a nice amount of privacy while still having a cozy, vintage, community feel. The bathrooms are very nicely maintained and clean, and there is an awesome shared space with a fire pit," explains a camper who extended their stay.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Water levels at Elephant Butte and surrounding lakes fluctuate dramatically by season and year. "The lake front was crowded with campers and people. Water was clear and cool with lots of carp. Didn't get to do much other fishing," notes a visitor at Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
Shower facilities vary widely: Bathroom and shower quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "The showers are the push button type which only gives you a minute or so of water before you push it again. However, the showers were free with the campsite, which only costs $14 (2018) and is in the desert!" explains a camper at South Monticello Campground.
Cell service and connectivity: Most campgrounds in the area have decent coverage despite their remote location. "Beautiful scenery, clean facilities. Sites in the main campground are kinda close together, but dispersed camping has better views and plenty of space. Good Verizon service, hot showers," reports a visitor at Iron Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Small campgrounds for quiet stays: Railroad Canyon Campground offers a more intimate camping experience. "This is a solid little campground with 3 (maybe 4?) campsites and few amenities. This campground is a 'little' more hidden from the road than other nearby campgrounds. Railroad Canyon Campground has many trails to access the wilderness from, and a small creek running behind each of the three campsites," describes a camper at Railroad Canyon Campground.
Yurt camping for first-timers: Yurt camping near Truth or Consequences, New Mexico provides a comfortable introduction to outdoor sleeping for families with young children. The sturdy structures at several campgrounds offer protection from wind and heat while providing a real camping experience.
Beach access considerations: Beach areas vary greatly depending on water levels and location. "Sandy beaches in most places we camped, great for privacy and space away from others. Inner-tubbeing and boat space. Nice marina and has some amazing festivals throughout the year," shares a visitor to Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Winter camping advantages: The Truth or Consequences area provides excellent winter RV camping options. "Situated on the edge of a sprawling reservoir along the Rio Grande river, this park is the perfect place to enjoy the vast landscape of the area. The campground is ideal for solar power, as is the New Mexico weather," explains a return visitor to Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort.
Site selection for views: Choosing the right site makes a significant difference in your camping experience. "Of all the campsites to choose from at EBSP, this is by far the best," states one camper about South Monticello, while another adds, "We were going to dry camp, but there was a windy, rainy storm going on. We pulled in to Elephant Butte RV Park in the dark, called the security number, and he directed us to a spot."
Service availability: Many RV parks in the area offer full hookups and other amenities. "Very clean, well kept resort. Almost full. We were here in early June and the day temperatures were in the low 100's with very low humidity. Sites are pretty tight with close neighbors. WiFi is good," notes an Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort visitor.
