Caballo Lake
00 reviewP.O. BOX 32, Caballo, New Mexico, 87931, United States
Caballo Lake
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$15.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $10 for tent camping or primitive sites to $15 for sites with electric and water hookups.
About this campground
Where the Rio Grande meets the sparkling waters of Caballo Lake, two distinctive campgrounds await your discovery. Riverside and Appaloosa Campgrounds serve as your gateway to New Mexico's stunning waterways, welcoming everyone from RV enthusiasts with spacious motorhomes to minimalist tent campers seeking simplicity. Choose from sites featuring electric and water hookups, many enhanced with sturdy shelters, cooking grills, and charming rock walls that define your outdoor living space. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into productive fishing waters, paddle a kayak across glassy lake surfaces, spot migrating birds along the riverbanks, explore scenic hiking trails, or launch your boat for a day of aquatic adventure.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including developed sites with full hookups, primitive camping areas, and options for both RV and tent camping.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure places you at the crossroads of New Mexico's rich cultural tapestry. Just a short drive away lies the legendary town of Hatch, where the air itself seems seasoned with the famous green chile that has made this region a culinary destination. For those seeking deeper historical connections, the ancient mysteries of Gila National Forest and its remarkable Cliff Dwellings beckon nearby, offering glimpses into the lives of the Mogollon people who called these lands home centuries ago. While the campgrounds themselves serve as modern gateways to recreation, they connect you to a landscape steeped in Southwest heritage and tradition.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of New Mexico's changing seasons in this high desert oasis. Winter nights bring crisp, star-filled skies with temperatures dipping into the refreshing 30s—perfect for cozy campfires and hot morning coffee. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched paradise, with daytime temperatures climbing to a toasty 97°F, ideal for water activities and shaded afternoon siestas. The arid climate means you'll enjoy predominantly clear, brilliant blue skies throughout your stay, with rain making only rare guest appearances. Desert breezes occasionally sweep through the campgrounds, and during certain seasons, you might encounter the local gnat population—a small price for accessing this natural wonderland.
ElevationNestled in New Mexico's characteristic high desert terrain, these campgrounds occupy a semi-arid landscape where the elevation creates perfect conditions for year-round outdoor adventures. The desert environment here strikes a delicate balance—high enough to escape the most intense heat of lower elevations, yet positioned perfectly to maintain the warm, dry climate that makes this region so appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Natural Features and SceneryAt Riverside Campground, majestic cottonwood trees create a natural canopy along the Rio Grande, their leaves whispering ancient river songs and providing welcome shade during warm afternoons. A pleasant stroll from Appaloosa Campground reveals the expansive beauty of Caballo Lake, its waters reflecting the ever-changing moods of the New Mexico sky. The rugged Caballo Mountains frame your views with their distinctive profiles, creating picture-perfect backdrops for memorable sunset photography. This semi-arid wonderland seamlessly blends desert resilience with aquatic abundance, where prickly pear and sage share the landscape with willows and water birds.
Geological RegionPositioned in the heart of the American Southwest, these campgrounds showcase the geological drama where water has carved its story through an ancient desert landscape. The mighty Rio Grande flows past towering cottonwoods, while nearby Caballo Lake spreads like a blue jewel against the earthen tones of the surrounding terrain. The Caballo Mountains stand as silent sentinels, their weathered faces telling tales of volcanic origins and erosion. This unique confluence of river, lake, and mountain creates a desert oasis that defies expectations—a place where the arid beauty of the high desert meets the life-giving waters that have sustained civilizations for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap access is listed as available, indicating consideration for visitors with disabilities. No detailed reviews on accessibility features were provided.
Sites SizeLarge, with some spaces accommodating large RVs and others being smaller for tents or primitive camping.
Sites PrivacyVaried level of privacy depending on the section. Some areas, such as primitive camping by the lake, offer seclusion, while more developed areas are closer to other campers.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor quiet and shade, opt for sites under cottonwood trees at Riverside. Sites at Appaloosa Campground are near the lake. Primitive camping is available directly on the beach or lake edge.
Best CampsitesRiverside Campground is favored for larger sites and proximity to the mountains and Rio Grande. Appaloosa Campground offers great access to Caballo Lake.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay limit not specified
- user reviews mention stays of up to 13 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Not explicitly specified
- user reviews suggest large sites accommodating RVs and multiple guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites include pull-through RV areas and dispersed primitive camping. Developed sites feature picnic tables, grills, shelters, and electric and water hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, though some user reviews mention seasonal closures for facilities like restrooms.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through New Mexico State Parks' website.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is not explicitly stated, but reservations are encouraged.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details not provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Caballo Lake State Park offers an extensive range of recreational activities. Popular activities include boating, kayaking, windsurfing, and fishing in Caballo Lake. Campers can also enjoy hiking on nearby trails, biking, birding, picnicking, and wildlife watching. Specific highlights include fishing for white bass and sheepshead and observing Sandhill crane flyovers during February. The lake's calm waters make it suitable for paddleboarding. Some reviewers noted that the beach areas are spacious and uncrowded.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and are generally well-maintained. Trails offer benches and scenic views. One reviewer particularly appreciated the placement of benches along the trails.Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity with species such as white bass and sheepshead available. Some reviewers reported decent fishing success, though others noted variability in fishing outcomes.Swimming
Swimming is mentioned as an activity, but some reviews and official sources indicate it may not always be permitted. One reviewer stated, 'Swimming is not allowed,' though another mentioned enjoying the lake for this purpose.Biking
The site features biking trails, including a well-maintained 13-mile trail praised as among the best by one reviewer.Boating
Boating is a major attraction at the lake, with facilities including a boat ramp. Visitors can engage in activities like jet skiing and windsurfing. Calm waters make the lake accessible for paddleboarding, though some complaints about wind affecting boating conditions have been noted.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a significant draw, with Sandhill cranes flying over in early February and herds of deer frequently sighted. Bird species like ducks and herons are also commonly observed.Beach activities
The beaches are spacious and uncrowded, suitable for sunbathing and other recreational activities. However, some reviews describe the beaches as rocky.Winter Activities
Winter activities like wildlife viewing, including deer sightings, and peaceful camping are noted.Water Sports
Water-based activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and jet skiing. The lake's conditions are suitable for a variety of skill levels.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire pits, included with dispersed camping.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated, though noise from generators and RVs at night is mentioned in user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsGnats and flies are a recurring problem; bug spray is reportedly ineffective, and vanilla extract is suggested as an alternative. Reviews mention spiders and scorpions. Wind is common and can impact water activities. Loose dogs in primitive camping areas were reported in one review.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories are mentioned in the provided materials.
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
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
Emergency services can be accessed in Truth or Consequences, which is 16 miles south of the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not specified; however, summer months appear popular based on reviews.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but recycling is not explicitly mentioned. Campers are encouraged to clean up after themselves to maintain the area's pristine condition.
Proximity to water featuresRiverside Campground is near the Rio Grande. Appaloosa Campground is within walking distance of Caballo Lake. A boat ramp is available at the lake.
Common complaintsIssues include gnats/flies, scalding hot showers without temperature adjustment, occasional lack of toilet paper, and seasonal restroom closures. Primitive camping signs were confusing for one reviewer.
HostHosts are described as polite and helpful. One user mentioned a host named Samuel.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 32, Caballo, New Mexico, 87931, United States
Driving directionsTake Exit 59 (I-25). Head north on NM187 and take the first right north of the I-25 bridge, heading east on Caballo Down Road. Take a right on Caballo Dam frontage road and travel approximately 3/4 mile to Riverside Campground. For Appaloosa Campground, travel north approximately 3/4 mile on NM187 off Exit 59, then take a left turn at the Lakeside Recreation Sign. Travel down Palomino Road approximately 1/4 mile and take a right at the Appaloosa Campground Sign.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, and the directions specify clear landmarks for navigation. Seasonal closures or terrain challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Truth or Consequences (16 miles south), Hatch (approximately 10 minutes north)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely available in Truth or Consequences (16 miles south), including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Additional fishing bait and license services mentioned near the lake include Lil Abner's Bait Shop.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Caballo Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and scenic beauty. Complaints mostly focus on insects and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Most reviews praise the clean restrooms, hot showers, spacious campsites, and beautiful views of the lake and mountains. The campground's quiet and peaceful environment is also frequently mentioned.
Common Concerns
Recurring issues include gnats and flies being a nuisance, inconsistent shower water temperature, and maintenance issues such as lack of toilet paper or cleanliness in restrooms.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing vanilla extract to deter bugs, reserving campsites in advance, and preparing for rocky beaches. Many emphasize the importance of practicing good camping etiquette.
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping offers peaceful and less crowded conditions. February sees Sandhill crane migrations. Summer reviews note an increase in bugs and the warm lake water being suitable for swimming.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms and showers were very clean and nice.' 2. 'Gnat and fly populations can be relentless.' 3. 'The views of the Caballo Mountains and the lake under a full moon are unforgettable.' 4. 'The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Riverside campsites are noted for their mountain views and larger size, while Palomino Campground is praised for having full hookups. Appaloosa Campground is close to the lake but may require walking...
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Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews address accessibility, though the campground is officially noted to have handicap access.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users report bringing dogs for activities like swimming and camping. Leash policies are not explicitly mentioned, but there are complaints about unleashed dogs in some primitive...
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Last updated August 10, 2025