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El Vado Lake State Park

El Vado Lake State Park Overview


El Vado Lake State Park is a beautiful and serene state park located in the northern part of New Mexico. The park is situated on the banks of the El Vado Lake, which is a man-made reservoir created by the damming of the Rio Chama River. The park is surrounded by the Carson National Forest, which adds to the natural beauty of the area.

There are plenty of things to do at El Vado Lake State Park. The lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park has a boat ramp and a marina where visitors can rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The park also has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Visitors to El Vado Lake State Park can also learn about the history of the area. The park is located on land that was once inhabited by the Jicarilla Apache group. The park has several interpretive signs that provide information about the group and their way of life. Visitors can also learn about the construction of the El Vado Dam, which was built in the 1930s as part of a federal project to provide irrigation water to the region.

One of the most popular activities at El Vado Lake State Park is camping. The park has several campgrounds that offer both primitive and RV camping. The campgrounds are located in scenic areas and offer easy access to the lake and hiking trails. The park also has picnic areas and a playground, making it a great spot for families.

Overall, El Vado Lake State Park is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers plenty of outdoor activities and opportunities to learn about the history and natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re looking to fish, hike, camp, or simply relax by the lake, El Vado Lake State Park is a must-visit destination in New Mexico.

Visitor’s Experience


El Vado Lake State Park is a beautiful destination located in northern New Mexico, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy a day of fishing, boating, and picnicking, while couples can take a romantic stroll along the lake’s shoreline. Friends can gather for a weekend camping trip, and solo visitors can find peace and solitude in the park’s serene surroundings.

For families, El Vado Lake State Park is an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, making it a popular spot for anglers. Families can also rent paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the lake’s calm waters. The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal with the family.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find plenty to do at El Vado Lake State Park. The park’s scenic beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll along the lake’s shoreline. Couples can also rent a boat and explore the lake together, or enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s secluded areas. The park’s peaceful surroundings make it an ideal destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Friends can gather for a weekend camping trip at El Vado Lake State Park. The park has several campgrounds with RV and tent sites, as well as group shelters for larger gatherings. Friends can spend their days fishing, boating, and hiking, and their evenings around the campfire. The park’s beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings make it a great place to reconnect with friends and enjoy the great outdoors.

Solo visitors can find peace and solitude at El Vado Lake State Park. The park’s quiet surroundings provide the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life. Solo visitors can spend their days fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the park’s natural beauty. The park’s serene surroundings make it an ideal destination for those looking to recharge and reconnect with nature.

The best times of year to visit El Vado Lake State Park are in the spring and fall. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it easier to enjoy the park’s recreational activities. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but the park can get crowded, especially on weekends. Winter is a quieter time to visit, but the park’s recreational activities are limited due to the colder weather.

In conclusion, El Vado Lake State Park is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Families, couples, friends, and solo visitors can all enjoy the park’s recreational activities and peaceful surroundings. The best times of year to visit are in the spring and fall, but the park is also a great destination in the summer and winter. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, El Vado Lake State Park is a must-visit destination in northern New Mexico.

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