Conchas Lake

4.17

89 reviews

P.O.BOX 976, Conchas Dam, New Mexico, 88416, United States

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,219 ft

Price

$4/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Conchas Lake State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,219 ft

Price

$4/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Conchas Lake State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Conchas Lake

$4.00 - $4.00 / night

Campsite Fees

A $4 online reservation fee applies. User complaints highlight this fee as excessive given the self-pay envelope system.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

4.17

Satisfactory

Based on 89 reviews

538 Google reviews

Most mentioned

showerslakestafffriendly

"Overall, user reviews highlight the scenic lake, clean facilities, and numerous activities as positives. However, issues like water system repairs, limited customer service, and occasional overcrowding were noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

P.O.BOX 976, Conchas Dam, New Mexico, 88416, United States

Conchas Lake

P.O.BOX 976, Conchas Dam, New Mexico, 88416, United States

Driving directionsFrom NM 104 follow the county road north past the dam and the Army Corps of Engineers office complex until reaching the Cove Campground Recreational Area. The Cove Campground is approximately 2.5 miles from the dam.

The location is remote and accessed by a road that is described as rough and desolate by reviewers. One review notes, "Listing says it's in Tucumcari - it really is on Conchas which is another 38 miles north on a very rough, desolate road." Additionally, a narrow one-vehicle bridge over the dam must be crossed to access this park.

Nearby places

Tucumcari (approximately 34 miles south).

Nearby supplies

The 104 Store located on Highway 104 is the closest supply point, offering goods, gas, and postal services. One review mentions, "The 104 Store is available for some shopping, but they price their items like they're the only store for 30 miles."

Best Time to Camp at Conchas Lake

Experience the dramatic personality of New Mexico's high desert climate at Conchas Lake, where each season tells its own story. Summer brings intense sunshine and temperatures that soar into the 90s, perfect for cooling off in the lake's refreshing waters. Winter transforms the landscape with crisp, cold air that demands cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. Be prepared for the desert's signature winds – powerful gusts that sweep across the open water, carrying fine sand that finds its way into every corner of camp life, creating that authentic Southwest adventure.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer busiest: water sports, fishing and swimming are in full swing; high activity levels noted.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Should be pleasant with fewer crowds and good fishing, though less activity than summer.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Milder weather and active wildlife/fishing make spring a good time to visit.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Quieter season with some facility closures; activities reduced, though fishing persists.

Planning Tips

Current Alerts: A boil water notice is currently active. Ongoing water system repairs are mentioned in multiple reviews.

About Conchas Lake

Nestled along pristine waters, Conchas Lake beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of developed comfort and untamed natural beauty. Whether you prefer the convenience of modern amenities or the raw appeal of undeveloped sites, this waterfront paradise caters to every camping style. Days here unfold with the gentle lapping of waves, the thrill of reeling in your catch, and evenings painted with spectacular lake views that make every moment memorable.

The park offers accommodations for RV camping, tent camping, and primitive camping, with some first-come, first-served sites available.

Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by American ingenuity, where the Army Corps of Engineers left an indelible mark on both the land and local heritage. This reservoir stands as a testament to mid-century engineering prowess, transforming the high desert into an aquatic oasis that continues to draw visitors decades after its creation.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of New Mexico's high desert climate at Conchas Lake, where each season tells its own story. Summer brings intense sunshine and temperatures that soar into the 90s, perfect for cooling off in the lake's refreshing waters. Winter transforms the landscape with crisp, cold air that demands cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. Be prepared for the desert's signature winds – powerful gusts that sweep across the open water, carrying fine sand that finds its way into every corner of camp life, creating that authentic Southwest adventure.

Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a stunning oasis where crystal-clear waters meet the rugged desert landscape. The shoreline reveals treasures with each step – delicate mussel shells scattered like nature's jewelry along the beach. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, where graceful deer emerge at dawn to drink from the lake's edge and wild turkeys strut through camp at sunset. Desert plants paint the hillsides with subtle hues, creating a tapestry of textures that changes with the light.

Geological RegionSet within New Mexico's captivating high desert terrain, Conchas Lake rests in a dramatic landscape where ancient mountains and weathered hills frame sweeping valleys. This remarkable lake appears like a sapphire jewel in the desert crown, its waters filling a basin carved by time and geological forces, creating an unexpected aquatic playground amidst the arid peaks and mesas.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes developed sites with covered picnic tables and adobe alcoves, as well as undeveloped shoreline camping areas.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online. Several user reviews criticize the online-only reservation system, citing poor communication and lack of in-person payment options.

Walk-in AvailabilityA limited number of first-come, first-serve sites are available and are highly praised; one user commented, "It’s so nice that they have 4 campsites that are first come, first in.

AccessibilityThe park features covered picnic tables and shaded areas at campsites, which offer some accessibility for visitors. Specific ADA-compliant amenities are not mentioned.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with adequate room for RVs and vehicles. Some sites offer shaded picnic areas or shelter structures.

PrivacyReviewers describe the sites as spread out, offering privacy. Some areas are less crowded and provide solitude.

Recommended SitesSites with electric and water hookups are noted, as well as locations with shaded picnic tables and easy lake access.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Picnic tables

Water hookups

Activities you can enjoy

Conchas Lake State Park is a hub for outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors also enjoy water sports such as water skiing and kayaking.

HikingWhile not the park's primary draw, hiking opportunities exist along the lake's shore and surrounding nature trails. They are suitable for light exploration and feature scenic views.

FishingFishing is highly rated, with the lake known for its warm-water fishing, including bass, bluegill, crappie, and white bass. The lake is also recognized as a top walleye fishing destination in New Mexico.

SwimmingThe lake is a popular swimming destination with clear and relatively clean water, according to reviewers. Some areas may require careful navigation due to mud.

BoatingBoating is a significant attraction here, with facilities such as boat ramps available. The marina is currently undergoing repairs due to storm damage.

Wildlife viewingVisitors frequently see deer, coyotes, and other wildlife. Some reviewers noted the chance to observe tarantulas and hawks.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRecurring issues include glass and nails on gravel roads, tarantulas, hawks, and coyotes. A boil water notice is in effect, and water at campsites is not potable.

Active AlertsA boil water notice is currently active. Ongoing water system repairs are mentioned in multiple reviews.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFires may be restricted during dry conditions, as noted in one review: "When it’s too dry just remember fires won’t be allowed."

Emergency ServicesEmergency services information is not clearly detailed.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present, including garbage bins within the campground.

Water FeaturesLocated on Conchas Lake, the campground is highly suitable for water-related activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

Camp HostHosts are often described as friendly and helpful. One reviewer mentioned, "The hosts were amazing! They gave us a whole case of water for free."

Weather at Conchas Lake

Reviews

4.2

89 reviews

Satisfactory

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

Overall, user reviews highlight the scenic lake, clean facilities, and numerous activities as positives. However, issues like water system repairs, limited customer service, and occasional overcrowding were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 89 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the park's beautiful lake, well-maintained facilities, and friendly staff. 'Best showers I've ever seen at a state park,' remarked one reviewer. Many noted the abundant wildlife and...

Based on 89 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the ongoing boil water advisory, lack of potable water, and some areas of disrepair. One reviewer noted, 'The park is not managed as well as other state parks.'

Based on 89 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Reserve spots with a lake view early. Be prepared for limited cell service.

Based on 89 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees high activity levels with water sports and fishing. Winter experiences quieter periods but some facilities may be closed.

Based on 89 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'This is a beautiful lake with clear water.' - 'Fishing opportunities here are excellent, especially for bass and walleye.' - 'The rangers were kind enough to provide us with bottled water during...

Based on 89 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site B15 is noted for its scenic lake views. Bell Point Electric sites are described as spacious with great facilities.

Based on 89 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews are available, although the covered picnic areas and spacious sites are appreciated.

Based on 89 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but leash rules apply near RV sites and roads. Coyotes and hawks were mentioned as potential risks for pets.

Based on 89 reviews

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Last updated February 17, 2026

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