Boating At Navajo Lake In New Mexico

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Nestled in the scenic northern part of New Mexico, Navajo Lake is a captivating reservoir renowned for its natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. Located near the town of Navajo Dam, the lake attracts visitors from across the region, eager to explore its picturesque surroundings and partake in various outdoor activities.

Navajo Lake boasts a wealth of nearby attractions, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the nearby Navajo Lake State Park, offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and opportunities for wildlife observation. The surrounding San Juan National Forest also beckons outdoor enthusiasts, with its lush forests and rugged terrain inviting exploration and adventure.

Boating is one of the major draws at Navajo Lake, as its expansive waters provide ample opportunities for sailing, motor boating, and water skiing. Access to the lake is made convenient with well-maintained boat launch ramps, ensuring boaters can easily get out on the water to soak in the stunning views and refreshing breeze.

Navajo Lake's marina serves as a central hub for boating enthusiasts, offering various services and amenities. From fueling stations to rental options, visitors can find everything they need for an enjoyable day on the water. Rental boats, available by the hour or the day, allow individuals and families to explore the lake without owning a vessel themselves, providing a hassle-free boating experience.

The lake's popularity extends to water sports, with enthusiasts engaging in activities like wakeboarding, tubing, and jet-skiing, adding an extra dose of excitement and thrill to their visit. As the sun shines brightly over the lake, the inviting waters beckon adventurers to create lasting memories on the waves.

Navajo Lake's boating season typically spans from spring to fall, offering ample time for boaters and water sports enthusiasts to enjoy the lake's offerings. The warm months attract visitors from neighboring cities and states, seeking a refreshing escape amid the lake's serene surroundings and vibrant waters.

In addition to boating and water sports, Navajo Lake is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, trout, and catfish, providing ample opportunities for anglers to cast their lines and reel in a prized catch.

For those seeking to prolong their stay, Navajo Lake offers various camping facilities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Camping beneath the starlit sky creates an intimate connection with nature, inviting guests to embrace the tranquility and simplicity of life outdoors.

With its scenic vistas, diverse recreational options, and nearby attractions, Navajo Lake in New Mexico promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture to its shores. Whether it's boating, fishing, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, Navajo Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.

Boating, camping and fishing.

A haven for boating, camping and fishing, Navajo Lake is a 15,000-acre lake on the northern border of the state. It is the second largest lake in the state and boasts nearly 160 miles of shoreline. Three boat launch ramps and three boat docks serve boaters with launch of fishing boats, water-ski boats, pleasure boats and pontoons. Canoes, kayaks and small fishing boats can be portaged from numerous areas in the parks. Also, a variety of rental boats are available at the marina and nearby boat rental outlets. For fishing enthusiasts it is a dream destination that offers both warm-water and cold-water fish species. Bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish, trout, salmon and sunfish all reside here. Much of the southern portion of the lake is surrounded by parks, some of which provide access for fishing from the shore.

Area Amenities

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

Camping

Navajo Lake State Park Campground - 505 632-2278

Cottonwood Campground - 505 632-2278

Navajo Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Navajo Lake include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, kokanee salmon and northern pike.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Black crappie White crappie Rainbow trout Brown trout Bluegill Kokanee salmon Northern pike