NM State Parks•Tierra Amarilla, NM•10h from Austin

El Vado Lake State Park

mountainsforest

Accessibility baseline: Sites on this platform are reviewed for access with a standard 2WD pickup truck towing a 21-foot travel trailer unless otherwise noted below.

Fee

$10–18/nt

Hookups

Full hookups

Trailer

Accessible (2WD pickup + trailer)

Cell Signal

Poor

Water

On-site

Toilets

Yes

Best Season

May–Oct

Reservations

ReserveAmerica

Highlights

▶ Hookup-capable camping on the Rio Chama impoundment in the remote Chama highlands — excellent trout and salmon fishing
▶ Aspen fall color in September is spectacular; motorboat-friendly lake contrasts with no-wake Heron Lake 5 mi away by trail
▶ Anchor for the northern NM corridor: Carson NF above, Valles Caldera and Jemez Mountains within 2 hours south

Planning Notes

Reserve in advance for summer weekends. Pairs naturally with Heron Lake SP (5 mi by trail; no motor boats on Heron). Both share the ReserveAmerica system. From Austin: ~10 hrs via Albuquerque then north on US-84/285.

Contact: (575) 588-7247

Always call ahead to confirm conditions, closures, and road accessibility.