Fenton Lake State Park
00 review455 FENTON LAKE ROAD, Jemez Springs, New Mexico, 87025, United States
Fenton Lake State Park
$10.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day-use fees are $10, while camping fees are $18 if booked online. Some user reviews complain about unclear signage regarding payment and booking requirements.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Jemez Mountains, Fenton Lake State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine alpine lake and peaceful mountain setting. This hidden gem draws anglers seeking trophy trout, families craving cool mountain escapes, and hikers eager to explore pine-scented trails. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, setting up camp beneath towering ponderosas, or wandering forest paths, Fenton Lake delivers an authentic New Mexico mountain experience.
The campground accommodates primitive, tent, and RV camping. It also offers group sites and accommodates electric hookups.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this tranquil mountain lake remains quietly tucked away, the land itself tells stories through its ancient pines and pristine waters, serving as a timeless sanctuary in the Jemez Mountains.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of four distinct seasons at Fenton Lake. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, with light to moderate snowfall creating picture-perfect scenes and temperatures that invite cozy campfires. As summer arrives, the park becomes a coveted retreat from desert heat, offering refreshingly cool mountain air and comfortable temperatures punctuated by afternoon thundershowers that roll through the peaks. Locals and seasoned visitors alike treasure these cooler mountain temperatures, especially during New Mexico's warmest months.
ElevationPerched high in the Jemez Mountains, Fenton Lake sits at an elevation that gifts visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers and crisp, invigorating mountain air year-round. This elevated paradise offers a refreshing escape from the lower desert valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself beside a mirror-like mountain lake, its surface reflecting towering pines and endless sky. The surrounding forest teems with life – from elk grazing in meadows to hawks circling overhead. Bird enthusiasts delight in the diverse avian population, while wildlife watchers might spot deer at water's edge during golden hour. The interplay of water, forest, and mountain creates a photographer's dream and a naturalist's playground.
Geological RegionThe Jemez Mountains cradle Fenton Lake in a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic forces and millennia of natural sculpting. This geological wonderland showcases dramatic rock formations, volcanic remnants, and lush coniferous forests that paint the mountainsides in various shades of green. The unique geology creates diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas that remind visitors why the Jemez range stands as one of New Mexico's most treasured landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFenton Lake has amenities for handicap access, as explicitly stated in the authoritative source.
Sites SizeSite descriptions vary. M.A. Nelson mentioned site #5 as having two parking spots, a grill, a fire ring, and space for tents, but noted it was small and sooty.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews like Devorah Wolf describe the campsites as 'privately spaced' and 'clean and well kept.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 25 is appreciated for its quiet surroundings; Site 5 offers parking and amenities but is described as sooty and ashy. Creek-side sites are recommended for better conditions.
Best CampsitesSite 25 on F Loop and Site 5 (non-electric) are mentioned as good options in reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No specific details are available about the number of people or vehicles allowed at group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes loops and areas for reserved camping.
Reservation PlatformsOnline reservations required; specific platform not mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is by reservation only; no walk-up availability mentioned explicitly.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policies explicitly provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Fenton Lake State Park offers a range of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, fishing, birding, canoeing, and cross-country skiing in winter.
Hiking
The park features a trail around the lake and a longer hiking trail into the surrounding forest, as noted by Karin Ward. Additionally, Adrienne Boggs highlighted the proximity to many other hiking trails.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with the lake regularly stocked with trout, including 10-12 inch fish and some larger ones. Multiple users recommend early fishing due to crowding, especially during summer. Dwight stated, 'They stock the lake regularly.'Boating
Boating activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing tubes, and canoes are permitted. Dwight remarked, 'They allow boats, paddleboards, kayaks, fishing tubes, and canoes.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as elk and deer can be observed in the area. Shea Isles noted, 'Deer and elk walk through camp late night early morning.'Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as noted by Karin Ward.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings; no other details provided.
- Quiet hours enforced as mentioned by user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears and mountain lions (mentioned by a user); icy winters may affect camping. Swimming is prohibited in the lake.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
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
Ranger Station contact available. No explicit mention of hospitals or full emergency services nearby.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no explicit information about trash and recycling facilities. However, Gina Ortiz mentioned that 'trash was around the lake,' indicating a possible lack of adequate trash management.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Fenton Lake, ideal for fishing and water-based recreation, with trails around the lake.
Common complaintsUser complaints include unclear fee instructions, overcrowded campsites during peak season, and rude rangers.
HostRangers patrol frequently and live on-site, contributing to park enforcement and cleanliness.
Campground Map
455 FENTON LAKE ROAD, Jemez Springs, New Mexico, 87025, United States
Driving directionsFROM INTERSTATE 25 TAKE HWY 550 (EXIT 242) TO STATE ROAD 4 IN SAN YSIDRO, THEN PROCEED 7 MILES PAST JEMEZ SPRINGS AND TURN ON STATE ROAD 126. FENTON LAKE IS 8 MILES FURTHER FROM THAT TURNOFF.
State Road 126 provides access to the park; however, some user reviews note potential challenges with unpaved roads and advise vehicles with ground clearance for smoother navigation.Nearby places
San Ysidro (approx. 18 miles) and Jemez Springs (approx. 8 miles). Exact travel times are not available.
Nearby supplies
No specific details provided
the area is rural and visitors may need to stock up before entering the park. Some reviewers mention lack of cell service for up to 25 minutes from the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Fenton Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Fenton Lake State Park is popular among campers and anglers, but experiences vary widely. While some users praise the park's beauty, fishing, and camping facilities, others express dissatisfaction with the reservation system, overcrowding, and the conduct of park rangers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users highlight the park's serene beauty, great fishing opportunities, and the well-maintained campground. Adrienne Boggs called it 'a gorgeous state park,' while Dwight has been visiting for 20...
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Common Concerns
Users frequently complain about the reservation system, with several noting the difficulty of securing a site. Lauren Vanderburg described rangers as 'rude and unhelpful.' Overcrowding at the lake...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Plan ahead and make reservations early, as noted by Brittany Martinez: 'Talking to the ranger revealed absolutely NO openings the rest of the summer.' Arrive early for fishing or day use, as...
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Seasonal Insights
During summer, the park is crowded, and campsites fill quickly, leading to complaints about overcrowding. In winter, facilities are limited, but the park is less crowded and offers unique activities...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The campground is absolutely lovely!' - Adrienne Boggs
2. 'Plan accordingly if you're going for the day, be there when it opens.' - Mellia N. Walker
3. 'The lake is pristine, has some great views...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #5 was reviewed as 'non-electric' with two parking spots, a grill, a fire ring, and space for tents. However, it was described as 'sooty and ashy' by M.A. Nelson. Site F loop 25 was praised for...
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Accessibility Features
The park is noted for handicap access, but no specific reviews from users with disabilities are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, as noted by M.A. Nelson, who visited with two dogs. They mentioned that the dogs were friendly and accepted in the campground.
Last updated August 10, 2025