Bottomless Lakes

4.45

505 reviews

HC 12, BOX 1200, Roswell, New Mexico, 88201, United States

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping New Mexico#1 Family-Friendly Campgrounds New Mexico#2 Boating Camping New Mexico#2 +3 more

Quick Facts

3,442 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowersWiFi

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,442 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowersWiFi

Opens Direct Line site

Official Website

Get Directions

Bottomless Lakes

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Lea Lake campsite fee is $10 per night as stated in user reviews.

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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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What Campers Say

4.45

Recommended

Based on 505 reviews

458 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spacioushikingwaterlake

"User reviews present a mixed perspective on the campground. Many visitors praise the natural beauty, recreational activities, and friendly staff, while others note issues with maintenance, cleanliness, and pest control."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

HC 12, BOX 1200, Roswell, New Mexico, 88201, United States

Bottomless Lakes

HC 12, BOX 1200, Roswell, New Mexico, 88201, United States

Driving directions12 miles east of Roswell, NM on US Hwy 380, then south on NM 409 for 7 miles.

Accessible via US Hwy 380 and NM 409. The roads are suitable for RVs and other vehicles, though some user reviews describe narrow roads as harrowing.

Nearby places

Roswell - 18 miles, Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge - 14 miles, Ski Apache - 100 miles, Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino - 87 miles, Carlsbad Caverns National Park - 90 miles, Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park - 72 miles, Brantley Lake State Park - 62 miles, Historic Lincoln County - 70 miles.

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be obtained from Roswell, approximately 18 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Bottomless Lakes

Experience the dramatic dance of desert seasons at Bottomless Lakes, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer arrives with intensity, bringing blazing days perfect for cooling off in the crystal-clear lakes. Winter winds sweep across the high desert with a bite that can surprise the unprepared, occasionally dusting the landscape with frost. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons, when gentle temperatures invite extended exploration and the desert blooms with unexpected life. Pack layers and prepare for nature's full spectrum – from sun-soaked afternoons to crisp, star-filled nights.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for lake activities and rentals; very popular though hot in daytime.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Popular in fall with favorable weather and open lake activities; strong season for visits.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring likely offers pleasant weather and lake activities returning; good visiting season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Quieter and colder; some amenities closed and lake activities limited in winter.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: null
Current Alerts: None explicitly mentioned.

About Bottomless Lakes

Discover your desert oasis at Bottomless Lakes State Park Campground, where azure waters meet endless skies along the shores of pristine Lea Lake. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV at one of the full-hookup sites, this enchanting campground serves as your gateway to one of New Mexico's most remarkable natural phenomena. Here, the stark beauty of the high desert transforms into an unexpected aquatic playground, offering campers a rare blend of desert adventure and waterfront relaxation.

The campground accommodates various camping styles, including primitive, tent, RV, and group camping.

Historical SignificanceBeneath the shimmering surface of Lea Lake lies a story written in stone and time. Archaeological whispers speak of ancient peoples who once gathered at these life-giving waters, leaving behind traces of their presence for modern explorers to discover. These mysterious lakes have long captured human imagination, serving as both practical oases and spiritual landmarks throughout the centuries. Today's visitors walk in the footsteps of countless generations who have been drawn to these remarkable waters rising from the desert floor.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of desert seasons at Bottomless Lakes, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer arrives with intensity, bringing blazing days perfect for cooling off in the crystal-clear lakes. Winter winds sweep across the high desert with a bite that can surprise the unprepared, occasionally dusting the landscape with frost. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons, when gentle temperatures invite extended exploration and the desert blooms with unexpected life. Pack layers and prepare for nature's full spectrum – from sun-soaked afternoons to crisp, star-filled nights.

ElevationPerched at the characteristic elevation of southeastern New Mexico's high desert country, the campground offers that perfect balance of mountain proximity and desert expanse. Here, the thin, dry air carries the scent of sage and creates those impossibly clear nights that make the Milky Way seem close enough to touch. The elevation provides just enough relief from the lower desert's extreme heat while maintaining the dramatic, wide-open vistas that define this enchanting region.

Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to have your expectations shattered as you encounter the Bottomless Lakes – a collection of stunning sinkhole lakes that emerge like sapphire jewels from the rugged desert floor. These geological marvels, carved by ancient underground rivers, create an almost surreal landscape where clear, spring-fed waters reflect the endless New Mexico sky. Lea Lake beckons swimmers with its refreshing depths and crystalline clarity, while the surrounding desert showcases nature's artistry in weathered rock formations, hardy desert flora, and panoramic vistas that stretch to the horizon. It's a landscape that defies desert stereotypes and rewards the curious with its hidden aquatic treasures.

Geological RegionWelcome to southeastern New Mexico's geological wonderland, where millennia of patient erosion have carved one of the state's most intriguing natural attractions. This remarkable region tells a story of ancient seas, underground rivers, and the slow collapse of limestone caverns that created today's chain of sinkhole lakes. The desert landscape here is far from monotonous – it's a dynamic canvas of mesas, arroyos, and these unexpected aquatic oases that seem to defy the arid climate. Each lake in the chain represents a window into the earth's hidden architecture, where groundwater springs eternal from depths that earned these formations their 'bottomless' moniker.

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

Null

Groups

No specific details about group site sizes or capacities were provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSite layout includes moderately spaced tent and RV sites, some with full hookups.

Reservation PlatformsOnline reservation system as mentioned in user reviews. Specific platform name not provided.

Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews indicate there may be a first-come, first-served system for certain areas, but the campground prioritizes reservations.

Cancellation PolicyReservations must be made online. Cancellation policies are not explicitly mentioned.

AccessibilityThe park includes a boardwalk over the wetlands that is considered to be more accessible. However, additional accessibility details are lacking.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating both small and large rigs, including spacious sites with full hookups.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some users noting that tent sites lack vegetation for separation while others appreciated the quieter, more spacious RV areas.

Recommended SitesChoose sites with full hookups for convenience; sites near Lea Lake are ideal for swimming access.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

WiFi

Flush toilets

Dump station

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Bottomless Lakes State Park include swimming, hiking, fishing, paddleboarding, and pedal boating. Many visitors enjoy the unique geological features and the clarity of the lake water, which is often described as refreshing and ideal for family activities.

HikingThe park features multiple trails, including the 'Skid Mark' mountain bike trail, which is also popular for hiking, and a wetlands boardwalk trail. These trails offer a range of difficulty levels and scenic views.

SwimmingLea Lake features a roped-off swimming area with clear and cold water, making it a family-friendly spot. Reviews confirm: 'Lea Lake is awesome, perfect for swimming,' and 'The water is cold and refreshing.'

BikingThe park includes trails suitable for mountain biking, with one reviewer highlighting the 'Skid Mark' trail as a favorite.

BoatingPaddle boats and paddleboards are available for rent at $10/hour and $5/hour, respectively. Several reviews describe the boating experience as enjoyable and family-friendly.

Wildlife viewingThe park is home to various wildlife, including birds, raccoons, and other small animals. Raccoons are particularly active around campsites, leading to mixed sentiments.

Beach activitiesThe swimming beach at Lea Lake is a highlight, with covered picnic areas nearby. Visitors often enjoy sunbathing and family gatherings here.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRaccoon and fly infestations are commonly mentioned in user reviews; some reviews also describe narrow roads and wind hazards.

Active AlertsNone explicitly mentioned.

Fire PolicyGround fires are prohibited due to dry conditions; grills are available.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned in authoritative or user reviews.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are likely located in Roswell, about 18 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans are available for camper use, though issues with full bins and lack of timely emptying were noted in some reviews.

Water FeaturesClose to Lea Lake with a designated swimming area and rental options for paddleboards and pedal boats.

Camp HostSome user reviews praise the campground hosts for being friendly and helpful, while others criticize a lack of maintenance oversight.

Weather at Bottomless Lakes

Reviews

4.5

505 reviews

Recommended

Bottomless Lakes is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews present a mixed perspective on the campground. Many visitors praise the natural beauty, recreational activities, and friendly staff, while others note issues with maintenance, cleanliness, and pest control.

Review Summaries

Based on 505 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the scenic beauty, clear lake water for swimming, friendly camp hosts, spacious sites, and the availability of activities like boating and hiking. One user stated,...

Based on 505 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include dirty bathrooms and showers, pest issues such as raccoons and flies, noisy neighbors, and inconsistent maintenance. A user summarized, 'The restroom might be closed during...

Based on 505 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bug spray, making online reservations early, and using covered picnic areas for added shade. A reviewer noted, 'The raccoon problem is real but you can deter them by...

Based on 505 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is more popular in summer and fall due to favorable weather and open lake activities. Winter stays are quieter but colder, with closed amenities like outdoor showers.

Based on 505 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Lea Lake is awesome, perfect for swimming.' 2. 'The trails in the park are good, the “skid mark” mountain bike trail is also great for hiking.' 3. 'Clean wide lots, picnic tables and grills,...

Based on 505 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #5: One of six full hookup sites with a large, gravel base and concrete picnic table. Site #22: Partial lake view, electric and water hookups, clean and spacious. Site #2: Good for overnight...

Based on 505 reviews

Accessibility Features

The boardwalk over the wetlands is highlighted as being more accessible, but additional accessibility features and reviews are limited.

Based on 505 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but campers warn about grass spurs and pest issues like raccoons. One reviewer said, 'Want to take your dogs out? Be prepared to be picking grass spurs out of their paws.'

Based on 505 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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