Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge
Sheridan L.
Reviewed Apr. 6, 2021

Last minute solution, full bars

It’s places like this that make me realize this how possible Van Life is!

I rolled in at 9pm when I had reservation issues else where, after finding this online at 830pm. There are full bars and open spaces. I felt bad rolling in to the lot because there were other people set up and tucked in. A few were blasting music and chatting loudly, but everyone was quiet from 10pm to 8am. I car camp, but the people staying were full timer van life or family’s camping out for the weekend. With spring coming in, the birds were a great natural alarm. Sure the lake was empty, but it’s free, easy to find, and free. The pit toilets were clean, and there were a few picnic tables at a few spots and lots of trash cans to keep it clean. Plus, the Milky Way was to die for.

I pulled into a tall grassy area so I felt kind of guilty in the morning when I saw they cut the grass in recommended dispersed spots. It wasn’t an issue though, set up anywhere as long as you’re not being a jerk.

It’s very accessible, good views, 30 mins from capulin volcano and sugarite state park.

  • Review photo of Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge by Sheridan L., April 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge by Sheridan L., April 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge by Sheridan L., April 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Lake 13-Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge by Sheridan L., April 6, 2021