Leasburg Dam

4.22

114 reviews

P.O. BOX 6, Radium Spgs, New Mexico, 88054, United States

Quick Facts

3,967 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Leasburg Dam State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,967 ft

Price

$14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Leasburg Dam State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Leasburg Dam

$14.00 - $14.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Water and electric sites are $14 per night, according to user reviews. Some first-come-first-served sites are available.

Standard Site Fee$14.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve America

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5755244068

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What Campers Say

4.22

Satisfactory

Based on 114 reviews

526 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspacioushiking

Some mention

reservation

"Leasburg Dam State Park is highly praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and scenic views. Common themes include spacious campsites, well-maintained facilities, and diverse recreational opportunities. Seasonal variations in water levels and weather impact some activities."

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Campground Map

P.O. BOX 6, Radium Spgs, New Mexico, 88054, United States

Leasburg Dam

P.O. BOX 6, Radium Spgs, New Mexico, 88054, United States

Driving directions15 MILES NORTH OF LAS CRUCES NM ON I-25, TURN WEST AT RADIUM SPRINGS EXIT 19, ONTO HIGHWAY 157, THEN 1/2 MILE TO PARK ENTRANCE ON THE NORTH SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. PARK IS ONLY 1/2 MILE FROM I-25.

Access to the campground from major roads is straightforward. It is located only 1/2 mile from I-25, and the road conditions are paved.

Nearby places

Las Cruces NM (15 miles), Hatch NM (20 miles), El Paso TX (59 miles), Albuquerque NM (208 miles).

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies for groceries, camping essentials, and fuel are available in nearby Las Cruces, NM, which is approximately 15 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Leasburg Dam

Experience the dramatic personality of the high desert climate throughout the year at Leasburg Dam. Summer arrives with intensity, bringing sweltering days that make early morning hikes and evening stargazing the preferred activities. Winter transforms the landscape into a crisp, dry wonderland where clear skies dominate and temperatures drop to refreshing levels perfect for daytime adventures. Throughout the seasons, characteristic desert winds sweep across the park, carrying the scents of sage and creosote while creating a natural soundtrack to your camping experience.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

High-desert summers are sweltering; higher occupancy and heat limit daytime comfort.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall likely pleasant with fewer heat issues and good trail access; reviews imply shoulder-season appeal.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 4% in NM

Spring and early summer ideal for water activities; river more likely to have flows and pleasant weather.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Top 13% in NM

Winter offers quiet and solitude but can be windy; river activities limited by low flows.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly stated but reviews suggest that summer months may have higher occupancy rates.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Not explicitly stated, but user reviews suggest year-round camping with seasonal variations in river water levels.
Current Alerts: None currently listed.

About Leasburg Dam

Nestled along the Rio Grande's gentle banks, Leasburg Dam State Park offers a serene escape where the desert meets the river. This hidden gem welcomes both RV enthusiasts and tent campers with generously spaced sites that provide privacy and tranquility. Days here unfold at a relaxed pace, whether you're exploring winding hiking trails, watching children play at the well-maintained playground, or settling in with binoculars to spot the diverse bird species that call this riparian corridor home. The park's pristine condition and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal basecamp for those seeking respite from city life while still enjoying modern camping amenities.

Leasburg Dam State Park accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. Group sites are available for larger parties.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a visit to the nearby Fort Sheldon Historical Site, where the echoes of frontier life still resonate across the desert landscape. This compelling piece of New Mexico's military history adds depth to your camping experience, offering a glimpse into the lives of soldiers who once guarded this strategic stretch of the Rio Grande. The fort's remnants serve as a powerful reminder of the region's role in shaping the American Southwest.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of the high desert climate throughout the year at Leasburg Dam. Summer arrives with intensity, bringing sweltering days that make early morning hikes and evening stargazing the preferred activities. Winter transforms the landscape into a crisp, dry wonderland where clear skies dominate and temperatures drop to refreshing levels perfect for daytime adventures. Throughout the seasons, characteristic desert winds sweep across the park, carrying the scents of sage and creosote while creating a natural soundtrack to your camping experience.

ElevationThe park rests at a comfortable desert elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and scenic vistas, though specific elevation details await your discovery upon arrival.

Natural Features and SceneryWhere the life-giving waters of the Rio Grande carve through the Chihuahuan Desert, Leasburg Dam State Park showcases nature's stunning contrasts. The majestic Robledo Mountains rise as sentinels to the east, their rugged profiles painted in ever-changing hues throughout the day. Riverside trails wind through cottonwood groves and desert willow thickets, offering blessed shade and intimate encounters with the park's diverse ecosystem. This unique blend of river, desert, and mountain creates a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.

Geological RegionSituated within the Southwest 3 ecological region, the park occupies a fascinating transition zone where the Rio Grande has sculpted a green ribbon through the surrounding desert terrain. This prime location along one of North America's great rivers creates a unique microclimate that supports an surprisingly diverse array of plant and animal life, making every visit a new opportunity for discovery.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

4:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay duration not explicitly stated.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Guest limits per site are not specifically mentioned in the authoritative sources.

Groups

Group campsites are available and well-suited for family gatherings or events. Specific capacity details are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops such as the Cactus Loop and Greasewood Loop. Sites are pull-through and include picnic shelters.

Reservation PlatformsReserve America platform can be used for online reservations.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome first-come-first-served sites are available, with no specific site count mentioned.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly stated. It is recommended to contact the campground directly for details.

AccessibilitySome campsites are designed for accessibility, including concrete pads and picnic tables with wheelchair cutouts. Trails are described as easy and navigable for a wide range of visitors.

Site SizeSites are spacious, with ample room for large RVs and pull-through options.

PrivacyThe privacy of campsites varies. Several reviewers noted that spaces are not clustered too closely, providing a sense of privacy. However, some reported sites being close together in certain areas.

Recommended SitesChoose sites with concrete pads for RVs to ensure level parking.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Leasburg Dam State Park offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, stargazing, and seasonal water activities. The park's proximity to the Rio Grande and other attractions enhances its appeal.

HikingNumerous hiking trails are available, catering to various skill levels. Trails are well-marked and maintained, with scenic views of the Rio Grande and surrounding mountains.

FishingFishing is available when water is released into the Rio Grande. Specific details about fish species are not provided.

SwimmingSwimming is available on one side of the Rio Grande when water levels permit. Visitors should check seasonal conditions.

BikingAll hiking trails are bike-friendly, with terrain described as rudimentary but enjoyable for desert riding.

BoatingCanoeing is offered seasonally, from mid-March to mid-October.

Wildlife viewingBird watching is a popular activity, with numerous bird species frequenting the area, especially near the river.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include windy conditions, bugs, and burrs that may affect pets. Fire bans are enforced during dry conditions.

Active AlertsNone currently listed.

Fire PolicyFire bans are enforced during dry conditions. Fire rings are provided at campsites.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest emergency services are likely located in Las Cruces, NM, approximately 15 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are available, and users noted the cleanliness of campsites, often free of litter.

Water FeaturesThe campground is near the Rio Grande, although water levels vary depending on dam releases.

Camp HostCamp hosts are friendly and helpful, often ensuring sites are clean and ready for use.

Weather at Leasburg Dam

Reviews

4.2

114 reviews

Satisfactory

Leasburg Dam is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Leasburg Dam State Park is highly praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and scenic views. Common themes include spacious campsites, well-maintained facilities, and diverse recreational opportunities. Seasonal variations in water levels and weather impact some activities.

Review Summaries

Based on 114 reviews

What Campers Love

- Clean and well-maintained facilities - Spacious and level campsites with picnic shelters - Friendly and helpful staff - Scenic views of the mountains and Rio Grande - Variety of recreational...

Based on 114 reviews

Common Concerns

- Limited water availability in the Rio Grande during certain seasons - Push-button showers with short water bursts and occasional cold water - Gates locking at sundown, requiring prior arrival -...

Based on 114 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Make reservations online to secure preferred sites and avoid issues with unstaffed offices. - Arrive before sundown to avoid locked gates. - Check water levels in the Rio Grande if planning to fish...

Based on 114 reviews

Seasonal Insights

- Spring and early summer are ideal for water-based activities, as the Rio Grande is more likely to have water. - Winter months offer quiet and solitude, though winds can be an issue. - Summer...

Based on 114 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Very clean campground and facilities. Lots of birds at the river." - Rainer M. Mauermann 2. "Spacious sites with pull-through options and beautiful shelters around picnic tables." - JoAnne...

Based on 114 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Site #14: Described as having a beautiful view but located furthest from the showers. - Site #20: Features a concrete pad and water/electric hookups. - Greasewood and Cactus Loops: Mentioned as...

Based on 114 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites feature concrete pads and picnic tables accommodating wheelchairs. Trails are also user-friendly for a range of abilities.

Based on 114 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but owners should be aware of stickers and burrs in the area that may affect their animals' paws.

Based on 114 reviews

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Last updated February 17, 2026

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