Percha Dam
00 reviewPO BOX 32, Caballo, New Mexico, 87931, United States
Percha Dam
$10.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$14.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$14 per night for sites with electric and water hookups, $10 per night for basic sites with bathroom access. Non-amenity sites available for a few dollars.
About this campground
Escape to Percha Dam State Park Campground, where the gentle murmur of the Rio Grande creates a natural soundtrack for your outdoor adventure. This riverside oasis welcomes RVers and tent campers alike with spacious pull-through sites equipped with electric and water hookups. Wake up to the calls of diverse birdlife while surrounded by the pastoral beauty of New Mexico's agricultural heartland, where modern camping comforts meet the timeless rhythm of river life.
Percha Dam State Park offers a variety of camping options including RV sites with water and electric hookups, tent sites, and primitive camping. Group sites and cabin lodging are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceImmerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Southwest at this gateway to New Mexico's most treasured sites. Just a short drive away lies the legendary town of Hatch, where the air itself seems spiced with the famous red and green chiles that define New Mexican cuisine. Adventure beckons from the nearby Gila National Forest, home to the remarkable Gila Cliff Dwellings, where ancient peoples once made their homes in the very heart of the wilderness centuries ago.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of southern New Mexico, where crisp winter mornings give way to brilliant afternoons in the mid-50s, and summer days stretch long and warm into the mid-90s. Under predominantly crystal-clear skies, you'll witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets, punctuated by the occasional dramatic desert storm that brings life-giving rain to the landscape. Bundle up for stargazing on frosty winter nights, or embrace the authentic Southwest heat of summer while cooling off by the river.
ElevationNestled in the Rio Grande valley, the campground offers a comfortable low-elevation camping experience ideal for year-round exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryFind your perfect balance of sun and shade beneath the majestic cottonwood canopy that lines the Rio Grande's banks. This riverside sanctuary transforms with each season - from the golden flutter of autumn leaves to the fresh green renewal of spring. The constant melody of water flowing over the dam creates a meditative atmosphere, while the interplay of dappled sunlight and river reflections paints an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Geological RegionDiscover the enchanting Rio Grande corridor of southwestern New Mexico, where ancient cottonwoods stand as sentinels along one of North America's great rivers. This unique riparian ecosystem creates a verdant ribbon through the high desert landscape, offering a striking contrast to the surrounding arid terrain and providing a vital habitat corridor that has sustained life in this region for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not specifically detailed, though reviews suggest sites are fairly level. No further accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are described as fairly small and close together, with some difficulty for RVs over 35 feet. Smaller rigs and tents fit comfortably.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is reported as minimal, with campsites being close together and little natural separation.
Total Campsites-1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the river are mentioned as more spacious and away from the clustered electric/water sites. Non-electric tent sites are recommended for privacy.
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged in a single large loop with parallel parking along the roadway. Sites are described as fairly level but close together, with limited space for larger RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonNull
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online or by phone via the state park reservation system.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is not allowed due to the state's new reservation system effective from November 10, 2019. All campsites must be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be made online or by phone. A $4 per day fee applies to reservations. Once booked, changing sites requires canceling and rebooking, leading to an extra fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities including fishing, birding, and trails for walking and biking. The nearby Rio Grande River provides opportunities for kayaking and rafting, and Caballo Lake offers boating options. Wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching, is a highlight with an abundance of Sandhill Cranes.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available with trails that wind through nearby irrigated fields and along the Rio Grande River. "The Rio Grande trail nearby snakes between two large irrigated farm fields," as noted in a review.Fishing
The Rio Grande River and Caballo Lake nearby are popular for fishing. One user highlighted: "This campground is good if you want to go fishing."Biking
Bike-friendly trails are available, often shared with walkers and birdwatchers.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at nearby Caballo Lake, located within 5 miles of the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching, is a highlight. The area is home to a large population of Sandhill Cranes, among other bird species. One reviewer stated, "Absolutely phenomenal place for birding!"Winter Activities
Limited winter activities are mentioned. Some users camped during colder months, noting the peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds but also highlighting challenges like cold bathrooms and fewer open facilities.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and rafting are popular on the nearby Rio Grande River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with fire pits (ring of stones) provided at campsites. Specific fire policies were not detailed.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsGoatheads (thorny plants) and ants are a significant issue, as noted repeatedly by users. Mosquitoes are also mentioned as a nuisance. Some users have complained about poor site maintenance, including weeds and broken walls around shelters.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, though maintenance issues are occasionally reported, such as overflowing vault toilets or litter.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is within walking distance of the Rio Grande River, and water-based activities like fishing, kayaking, and rafting are popular. Boating is available within five miles at Caballo Lake.
Common complaintsSites are described as too close together, lacking privacy. Maintenance issues like weeds, broken walls, and insufficient cleaning were noted. One reviewer mentioned significant dog feces at their site, and others have highlighted the abundance of goatheads and ants.
HostCamp hosts are generally described as polite and helpful; however, some reviews noted the absence of hosts or ineffective management.
Campground Map
PO BOX 32, Caballo, New Mexico, 87931, United States
Driving directionsTake exit 59 off of Interstate 25 onto Highway 187, head south on NM187, turn left on East Grand Percha Road (by Ballpark), and follow the paved road (approximately 2 miles) into the park.
The park is accessed via paved roads. No indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain were provided.Nearby places
Truth or Consequences (16 miles to the north)
Hatch, New Mexico (distance unspecified but nearby)
Elephant Butte
Caballo.
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Percha Dam has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, praising the peaceful environment, birdwatching opportunities, and clean facilities. However, recurring complaints include close site spacing, limited privacy, and issues with pests like flies, mosquitos, and goatheads.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms and showers, great birdwatching, peaceful atmosphere, friendly hosts, and convenient access to the Rio Grande River and surrounding attractions.
Common Concerns
Small and cramped campsites, minimal privacy, pests (flies, mosquitos, goatheads), maintenance issues (overflowing toilets, poor landscaping), and limited dump station facilities.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to deal with pests. Smaller RVs (under 35 feet) are better suited for the sites. Consider an annual state park pass for significant savings. Reservations are recommended, especially...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are popular seasons due to pleasant weather and active wildlife. Summer can bring more pests, while winter offers a quieter experience but fewer open facilities and colder...
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Camper Quotes
1. "The sites have 0 privacy though but it's pleasant and the sites are level." 2. "My only gripe is I wish they would turn the hot water up just a bit during the winter." 3. "Dog feces all through...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2: Clean with fire pit, charcoal grill, picnic table, and covering. Site 29: Water pump inoperable. Riverside Camping Loop Site 44: Poor setup with no table and unclean facilities, prompting a...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly detailed in reviews, though level sites are noted.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but goatheads (prickly plants) are a common issue, potentially causing discomfort to dogs. Users recommend keeping dogs away from grassy areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025