Fee: Day use $5 per vehicle NM residents (free Oct 1-Apr 30), $10 non-residents; walk-in/bicycle free. Camping: primitive $10 NM/$15 non-NM, developed $15 NM/$20 non-NM per night; hookups extra.
About this park
El Vado Lake State Park is in New Mexico's northern mountains at about 7,209 feet. It offers fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Quiet coves are good for trout and kokanee salmon, and a 5.5-mile scenic trail along the Rio Chama connects El Vado with Heron Lake. There are 80 developed campsites. State Highway 112 across El Vado Dam is closed May 27 through September 4, 2026 for dam renovation, so visitors should approach via Tierra Amarilla.
El Vado Lake State Park FAQ
Where is El Vado Lake State Park located?
El Vado Lake State Park is in Tierra Amarilla, New Mexico, at State Road 112. GPS coordinates: 36.605, -106.748. Get directions.
Is there an entrance fee at El Vado Lake State Park?
Day use $5 per vehicle NM residents (free Oct 1-Apr 30), $10 non-residents; walk-in/bicycle free. Camping: primitive $10 NM/$15 non-NM, developed $15 NM/$20 non-NM per night; hookups extra. Fees can change by season, so confirm with the park before you go.
How do I contact El Vado Lake State Park?
You can call (575) 588-7240. The park office can confirm RV site availability, hookups, length limits and current conditions.
Are there RV campgrounds near El Vado Lake State Park?
Yes. The closest RV-friendly campgrounds listed on ParkedRV are:
- Riana - Abiquiu Lake (31.1 mi, reservable)
- Blanco River Group Campground (38.1 mi, reservable)
- Elk Creek Campground (Rio Grande Nf) (41.6 mi, reservable)
How current is this information about El Vado Lake State Park?
This listing was last updated on October 6, 2026. If something is out of date, let us know and we'll fix it.