Activities

Fun Things to Do While at Elephant Butte Lake

The Lake! Many Elephant Butte visitors come here for that sole reason. The beaches and myriad water activities will fill your days with pure enjoyment. However, there are other attractions and activities to explore. Hike one of the Park’s trails, take a swing on the world-class golf course or cast a line from the shore, off a pier or a boat; explore historical sites. Gain a greater appreciation for Elephant Butte’s natural splendor by extending your visit to enjoy the following activities.

Birdwatching

Elephant Butte Lake State Park (site 37) is a premier water bird watching area and has been designated as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. In addition, the largest contiguous breeding population of federally endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher nests in the delta bottom lands. If you have time while you are here day trips to Sierra County’s Percha State Park/Caballo Reservoir/Las Palomas IBA (sites 34-36) where over 300 species of birds have been seen and a visit to Emory Pass IBA (site 31) is worthwhile and extremely scenic.

Southwest New Mexico Birding Trail – site 34-37

Southwest New Mexico Birding Trail – site 30-31

Boating

Elephant Butte Lake is New Mexico’s premiere boating destination! The lake is part of Elephant Butte State Park and offers a family friendly aquatic retreat.

Camping at Elephant Butte Lake

Elephant Butte Lake State Park offers a variety of campsites, from camping on the beach to pull through RV sites with full hook ups.

• Visit the  New Mexico State Parks website for info, fees and on-line reservations.
• RV Parks

Fishing

The lake is recognized as the best managed fisheries in the Southwest. Visit our fishing report page to see some photos and for links to our Fishing/hunting guide member’s websites.

Fishing Report from the New Mexico Dept of Game and Fish

Golf

Golf at Sierra del Rio located at Turtleback Mountain Resort

Hiking

Elephant Butte Lake State Park has several hiking trails. Click for Lakeshore Trail Guide

Pocket maps are available at the Chamber or at the State Park. More area trail information can be found at the Sierra County Tourism website

Sight-seeing

Discover the beauty, recreation and history of the Elephant Butte area this year. Home to amazing ghost towns, spectacular forest & wilderness areas, Spaceport America and much more.  Experience your perfect day in Elephant Butte and then extend your visit to explore Day Trips!”