Are you looking for a base camp in to enjoy Indian ruins, scenic drives and beautiful mountain sunrises and sunsets? You might consider Elephant Butte Lake State Park.
This is the ninth post in our series about New Mexico parks.
The state park provides 173 developed sites. Many people that want to be closer to the lake choose Quail Run, Lions Beach or Desert Cove campgrounds. We did not choose these because the sites were so close together. That said, they are much closer to town or to the lake if you want to do some boating. Here is a map of the park. Campsite photos is our go-to to check out what actual sites look like in a campground. Also, check the lake levels if boating is a priority. The lake level was only a 5 percent when we visited.
South Monticello Campground
We chose the more remote South Monticello Campground, and I am so glad we did. Important, if you choose this campground, do not just put the state park into your navigation app. You will have to turn around and head back out. ( Ask me how I know. ) If you are coming from Truth or Consequences, DO NOT follow the signs to turn right on 195 to the main section of the park. Instead, turn left. Then continue on Rock Canyon Road until you get to Lakeshore Road to get to the campground. It is a little faster to just stay on I-25. Take exit 89, do a small U-turn onto Rock Canyon Road, then Lakeshore Road.
Campsites
Whoever designed this campground knew about RV’s. The sites are HUGE and spaced out, especially the pull-throughs. Now the pull-throughs are mostly in the middle of the campground with the back-ins on the edges.
You are surrounded by mountains in the distance.
Now there is a boat ramp nearby, but the lake no longer comes out to the campground or the boat ramp.
Facilities
The dump station is just outside the entrance to the park. They have a large restroom and shower facility with smaller restrooms spaced inside the campground.
Nature Trail
Next to the big bathroom, they have a short nature trail, which was very helpful to learn the names of the plants we would see in our other hikes.
Sunsets and Solitude
The part I enjoyed best about this park was the chance to just enjoy the sunrises and sunsets over the mountains. I needed the quiet in that season of my life.
Next week I will talk about the hikes we took in this state park. Then I will talk about possible day trips you can take from the area as well. If boating or water activites are your main focus, then this would not be a good choice. However, if you want to enjoy mountain views, relaxation, and some fun day trips, consider Elephant Butte Lake State Park as your base camp.
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