How much does camping cost at Navajo Lake?

Camping fees at Navajo Lake range from $5-$40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Navajo Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

Navajo Lake accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Navajo Lake before I book?

Yes! Navajo Lake has 19 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Navajo Lake?

Navajo Lake is open July is noted for extremely hot conditions as per user reviews, suggesting summer may be peak season.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Navajo Lake?

Navajo Lake does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at Navajo Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at Navajo Lake. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Navajo Lake?

Navajo Lake offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Navajo Lake?

Popular activities at Navajo Lake include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Navajo Lake

Q: Can I have a campfire at Navajo Lake?

Fire policies at Navajo Lake: Fire bans during certain seasons due to dry conditions. One user review noted campers violating fire bans without penalties.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.26

254 reviews

1448 NM HWY 511 # 1, Navajo Dam, New Mexico, 87419, United States

Fishing

Featured in:Boating Camping New Mexico#3 Swimming Camping New Mexico Best Campgrounds New Mexico

Real-Time Availability

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Quick Facts

5,755 ft

Price

$5 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial Hookups

Book on Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,755 ft

Price

$5 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial Hookups

Book on Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Navajo Lake

$5.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Day use fee is $5.00 per day or $40 annually, as per user reviews. Reservation fees are mandatory for campers and may include an extra fee for online...

Standard Site Fee$18.00

Hookup Site Fee$40.00

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Campground Map

1448 NM HWY 511 # 1, Navajo Dam, New Mexico, 87419, United States

Navajo Lake

1448 NM HWY 511 # 1, Navajo Dam, New Mexico, 87419, United States

Nearby places

Durango, CO (50 miles)

Farmington, NM (40 miles)

Bloomfield, NM (18 miles)

Aztec, NM (18 miles)

Nearby supplies

Closest location for gas, essentials, and snacks is Bloomfield, NM, approximately 30 minutes away as per user review. Another review mentions availability of supplies in Navajo Dam community, including gas and snacks from Abe's.

Driving directionsPine Main Camping Areas: FROM BLOOMFIELD NM TRAVEL 25 MILES NORTHEAST VIA US64 AND NM511. FROM AZTEC NM TRAVEL 25 MILES NORTHEAST VIA NM173 AND NM511. FROM DULCE NM TRAVEL 55 MILES NORTHWEST VIA US64, NM539 AND NM511. FROM IGNAICIO CO TRAVEL 26 MILES SOUTH VIA CO172 AND NM511. Cottonwood Camping Areas: FROM BLOOMFIELD NM TRAVEL 9 MILES EAST VIA US64 TO NM511 - 9 MILES TO NM173 - WEST 1 MILE TO CR4280. FROM AZTEC NM TRAVEL 25 MILES VIA US550N TO NM173 - 18 MILES TO CR4280. FROM DULCE TRAVEL 55 MILES VIA US64 AND NM511 TO CR428. FROM IGNACIO CO TRAVEL 26 MILES SOUTH VIA CO172 AND NM511 TO CR4280. Sims Mesa Camping Areas: FROM BLOOMFIELD NM TRAVEL 64 MILES NORTHEAST VIA US64 AND NM527. FROM AZTEC NM TRAVEL 18 MILES NORTHEAST VIA NM173 - 5 MILES NORTH VIA NM511 - 5 MILES SOUTH VIA NM539 - 24 MILES NORTH VIA US64 - 17 MILES NORTH VIA NM527. FROM CHAMA NM TRAVEL 66 MILES NORTHWEST VIA US64 - 17 MILES NORTH VIA NM527. FROM IGNACIO CO TRAVEL SOUTH 25 MILES VIA CO172/NM511 - 5 MILES SOUTH VIA NM539 - 24 MILES NORTH VIA US64 - 17 MILES NORTH VIA NM527.

The campground is accessed via a combination of paved and unpaved roads. Multiple user reviews mention the 1.5 to 2-mile dirt road leading to the campground as being rough, rutted, and in serious need of grading. One review stated, 'Don't make our mistake. The road is a dirt road full of holes and like a rub board.' Others noted that this road can be difficult for towing campers and vehicles.

Weather at Navajo Lake

Best Time to Camp at Navajo Lake

Fall is the prime season here. Daytime highs settle into the 60s–70s°F with nights in the 30s–40s°F, and the cottonwoods turn golden along the river. Fishing and boating stay strong as water cools, and crowds thin after Labor Day. Mosquitoes are less intense than in midsummer, and skies are more stable without monsoon activity. Summer brings temperatures into the 90s, which makes early mornings and evenings the most comfortable windows for activity. Reviewers recommend reserving shaded sites if you're visiting then. Bring ant and mosquito repellent. Winter is quiet and mild by comparison, with temperatures hovering around freezing. Spring offers moderate weather and wildflowers on the mesas, though wind can pick up.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall called prime season: cooler temps and cottonwoods turning golden along the river.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: July is noted for extremely hot conditions as per user reviews, suggesting summer may be peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Null

About Navajo Lake

Navajo Lake Campground sits along the San Juan River near Navajo Dam at 5,755 feet elevation, offering spacious sites with concrete driveways and variable privacy depending on location. Sites range from $5 to $40 per night and include tent, RV, primitive, and group options. The campground provides water and electric hookups, flush and vault toilets, and a dump station. Access roads are frequently rough and poorly maintained, so high-clearance vehicles help.

The campground accommodates multiple camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, group camping, and primitive camping. Several sites have water and electricity hookups.

Historical Significance

A one-mile hike from camp leads to Navajo ruins, where stone structures and remnants of ancestral Puebloan and Navajo cultures remain. The trail is accessible and offers a direct connection to the indigenous peoples who lived in these canyons. Pottery shards and architectural features still appear along certain routes.

Weather and SeasonsFall is the prime season here. Daytime highs settle into the 60s–70s°F with nights in the 30s–40s°F, and the cottonwoods turn golden along the river. Fishing and boating stay strong as water cools, and crowds thin after Labor Day. Mosquitoes are less intense than in midsummer, and skies are more stable without monsoon activity. Summer brings temperatures into the 90s, which makes early mornings and evenings the most comfortable windows for activity. Reviewers recommend reserving shaded sites if you're visiting then. Bring ant and mosquito repellent. Winter is quiet and mild by comparison, with temperatures hovering around freezing. Spring offers moderate weather and wildflowers on the mesas, though wind can pick up.

ElevationTucked into a protective canyon carved by the patient work of the San Juan River, the campground's unique elevation creates a microclimate that surprises and delights visitors year-round. This natural shelter moderates summer's heat and provides respite from winter's harshest winds, while the canyon walls frame stunning sunrise and sunset displays. The elevation changes throughout the area create diverse ecosystems and spectacular vantage points, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding mesas and the ribbon of river below.

Natural Features and ScenerySituated along the west bank of the San Juan River just downstream from Navajo Dam, featuring large cottonwood trees and many sites directly backing up to the water.[1][2][5]

Geological RegionWelcome to the enchanting tapestry of northwest New Mexico, where millions of years of geological drama have sculpted a landscape of intimate canyons, commanding mesas, and life-giving rivers. The San Juan River serves as the region's aquatic lifeline, cutting through layers of sandstone and shale to create the dramatic topography that defines this corner of the Southwest. Here, the Colorado Plateau meets the high desert, resulting in a fascinating blend of ecosystems where piñon and juniper-studded mesas give way to cottonwood-lined river bottoms. This geological diversity isn't just scenic—it creates numerous microclimates and habitats that make every hike an opportunity for discovery.

Scenic ViewsViews of the San Juan River and surrounding mesas are common. A user review noted, 'Peaceful serene campsite #35 is back in then you're surrounded by shrubs so it's more secluded.'

Lodging & AccommodationsNo lodge-style accommodations are available; the campground is primarily focused on tent, RV, and group camping setups.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive programs are available as part of the official amenities, though specific topics and schedules are not detailed.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Null

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites are said to be spacious and can accommodate multiple guests.

Groups

Group shelters are available and include water and electricity. Reviews mention ample picnic tables and nearby bathroom facilities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle loop with two restrooms at opposite ends. Sites are spaced for privacy and include covered picnic tables and concrete driveways. Some sites offer electric and water hookups. The layout provides good separation in most areas, though stickers and goat heads are common on the ground, so pet owners should use caution.

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online, per several user reviews.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome user reviews mention seeing reserved tags on sites without vehicles present, indicating a potential for walk-up availability but not confirmed.

Cancellation PolicyA user review states complaints about reservations canceled during COVID but not refunded in full. Policies governing refund amounts are unclear.

AccessibilityHandicap-accessible features are available, including accessible restrooms. Specific site mentions highlight pathways and parking areas as being accessible.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, with some reviewers specifically appreciating the roominess of the sites and the concrete driveways available.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, but several reviews note that the sites are nicely spaced and some are secluded, particularly site #35, which is surrounded by shrubs.

Recommended SitesIn hot weather, choose shaded sites like 20-27. Site 35 is recommended for privacy.

Best CampsitesNo specific site recommendations from campers; riverfront sites noted for direct water access.[2]

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Amenities available

The campground offers a varied range of amenities. Official sources mention facilities such as bird watching, a boat launch ramp, boating, canoeing, dump stations, fishing, hiking trails, restrooms, vault toilets, and wildlife viewing. Visitor reviews add that most sites have water and power hookups, concrete picnic tables with covers, and fire pits. However, there is no mention of shower facilities on-site, with one review noting that the nearest showers are 8 miles away at another campground by the dam. Restrooms with flush toilets are available, and reviewers frequently describe them as clean and well-maintained.

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a wide range of recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and water-related activities such as canoeing and boating. The nearby San Juan River is a well-known fishing destination, especially for trout.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife encounters include raccoons, turkeys, and a reported blonde black bear. Standing water during monsoon season can attract mosquitoes. Grass spurs and stickers are also a nuisance according to multiple reviews.

Fire PolicyFire bans during certain seasons due to dry conditions. One user review noted campers violating fire bans without penalties.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Null

Trash & RecyclingThere are trash disposal facilities available, though some reviews note that maintenance of these areas is inconsistent. Several complaints mention trash being left behind at sites and along pathways.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the San Juan River and approximately 10 miles from Navajo Lake.

Camp HostMultiple user reviews describe camp hosts as unhelpful or neglecting maintenance tasks. Others mention friendly hosts who interact well with guests.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

254 reviews

Satisfactory

Navajo Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, user reviews are mixed. Many highlight the beautiful natural setting, excellent fishing opportunities, and well-spaced campsites with good privacy. However, numerous complaints address poor road conditions leading to the campground, maintenance issues, and inconsistent enforcement of campground rules.

Review Summaries

Based on 254 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 254 reviews.

Site 35Loved
Site 35 is noted for its privacy, being surrounded by shrubs.
Site 47Mentioned
Site 47 is mentioned as a good spot but suffers from stickers and goat heads.

What Campers Love

Easy access to San Juan River for outdoor enjoyment; riverfront camping with large cottonwood trees.[2][5]

Based on 254 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints include the poorly maintained dirt road leading to the campground, trash left at campsites, overgrown weeds, and a lack of enforcement of rules such as fire bans. Some also...

Based on 254 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

No camper-specific tips available in sources.

Based on 254 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews frequently note that summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching the high 90s. Winter months offer peace and quiet but may lack accessibility due to weather conditions....

Based on 254 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Saw deer making their way through the campground a few times. Quiet. Camp host is a nice man that seemed willing to help." - Ryan Gordon. "Great camping in RV or tent. Water available between most...

Based on 254 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews mention that handicap access is available, with accessible restrooms and parking areas. No specific issues related to accessibility were highlighted.

Based on 254 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but many reviewers caution against bringing them due to the presence of stickers and goat heads. One review mentions a dog refusing to leave the trailer due to stickers.

Based on 254 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Fly fishers and boaters get the most out of this place. The river is steps from camp, the boat launch is on-site, and sites 20-27 offer real shade. Site 35, ringed by shrubs, is the privacy pick if you can grab it.

Skip if

CR 4280 turns rough after rain, and reviewers consistently flag trash, overgrown sites, and spotty rules enforcement. Pet owners should also know goat heads and grass stickers cover the ground at several sites, including site 47.

Nearby Campgrounds

Box 1697, Arboles, Colorado, 81121, United States

Navajo State Park sprawls around a 15,000-acre reservoir that crosses into New Mexico, offering 118 campsites across three distinct campgrounds. Sites range from primitive tent spots to full-hookup RV pads ($15-$51/night), plus cabin rentals. The park sits at 6,125 feet elevation in Colorado's Southwest Region, with 150 miles of shoreline and a full camp store for extended stays.