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Boating At Elephant Butte Reservoir In New Mexico

By AA-Boats & Boating Staff Writers

Elephant Butte Reservoir, New Mexico

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Nestled in southern New Mexico, Elephant Butte Reservoir is a captivating destination that draws visitors with its stunning desert landscape and inviting waters. The reservoir's close proximity to the Sierra del Rio Golf Course and the nearby Elephant Butte Lake State Park makes it an appealing spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the arid terrain.

Elephant Butte Reservoir is a boater's paradise, attracting water sports enthusiasts from far and wide. The expansive lake with its crystal-clear waters creates the perfect setting for a variety of activities, such as water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. The tranquil atmosphere also makes it a popular spot for leisurely kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

Elephant Butte Reservoir features marinas that provide necessary services and amenities. Boaters can refuel, purchase supplies, and access boat maintenance facilities, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable time on the water.

Easy accessibility is a key feature of Elephant Butte Reservoir, thanks to well-maintained boat launch ramps. Boaters can quickly get their vessels into the water, maximizing their time for exploration and adventure. Rental boats are also available, providing options for those who wish to experience boating without owning their own watercraft. Hourly or daily boat rentals allow visitors to tailor their boating experience to fit their schedule and preferences.

Surrounded by picturesque vistas, Elephant Butte Reservoir is also in close proximity to several charming cities and towns, including Truth or Consequences. These nearby urban areas offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, providing a perfect balance between outdoor adventure and modern comforts.

The boating season at Elephant Butte Reservoir typically runs from spring to fall when the weather is milder, allowing for a more enjoyable and extended period on the water. During this time, the reservoir comes alive with boaters and water sports enthusiasts, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

Anglers will find Elephant Butte Reservoir to be a haven for fishing, boasting an abundance of fish species such as bass, striped bass, catfish, and crappie. Casting a line from the shore or from a boat promises an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels.

For those looking to extend their stay, camping facilities are available where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Camping by the water's edge provides a unique and memorable experience, with the sounds of lapping waves and starry skies setting the stage for a peaceful night's sleep.

Elephant Butte Reservoir is a captivating destination in New Mexico that offers a wide array of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. With its inviting waters, nearby attractions, and convenient facilities, the reservoir provides an ideal setting for boating, water sports, fishing, and camping adventures. Whether visiting for a day trip or an extended stay, visitors to Elephant Butte Reservoir are sure to create lasting memories in this stunning and serene landscape.

Boating, camping and fishing.

The center of attraction at Elephant Butte Lake State Park, Elephant Butte Reservoir is a top choice for boating and fishing enthusiasts. This 36,000-acre lake is located in the west-central part of the state, at Truth or Consequences. Four major boat launch ramps are available to the public, and rental boats are also available at the lake for boating or fishing. Over 360 miles of shoreline are available to anglers fishing from a boat. For bank fishing from shore, there over a dozen areas with easy access. With a long-standing reputation for bass and striper fishing, The Butte also offers quality fishing for catfish, crappie, walleye and bluegill.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Elephant Butte Lake State Park Campground - 575 744-5923

Elephant Butte Lake RV Resort - 575 744-5996

Enchanted View Campground - 575 744-5876

Agua Vista RV Park - 505 250-2539

Cedar Cove RV Park - 575 744-4472

Rio Lago RV Park - 575 740-2719

South Monticello Campground - 575 744-5923

Elephant Butte Reservoir Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Elephant Butte Reservoir include Elephant Butte Reservoir for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill and striped bass.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie White crappie Walleye Bluegill Striped bass

For a New Mexico Fishing License, click here.

Local Contact Information

Elephant Butte Lake State Park
101 NM-195
Elephant Butte, NM 87935
575 744-5923

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