Heron Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Glide across brilliant blue waters in a sailboat or paddle through rocky inlets at Heron Lake State Park, a stunning spot located in the far northern reaches of New Mexico. If you listen closely, all you'll hear are the sounds of the wind rushing through the pines — this is a wake-free "quiet lake." The guaranteed serenity makes it a spectacular destination for all manner of silent sports, including kayaking, fishing, hiking, and cross-country skiing. No matter how you choose to explore, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views across the water to the forested cliffs. The park feels remote, but Los Ojos is just 10 miles away, and Santa Fe lies 100 miles to the south.
Spring 25-65 F
Summer 40-85 F
Fall 30-70 F
Winter 6-40 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Heron Lake State Park
Heron Lake State Park sits at more than 7,000 feet above sea level, which means that evenings are cool year-round. An RV is the perfect way to camp in complete comfort. If you haven't purchased a motorhome yet, an RV rental is a fun way to upgrade your trip and give your dream model a test run.
Heron Lake State Park Campground
With 250 campsites, the Heron Lake State Park campground has plenty of space for the summer crowds. Reserve in advance, and you'll have a better chance at snagging one of the 54 sites with electric hookups. Within the campground, you'll find a dump station and water, as well as showers and bathrooms. Most sites accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long, giving you plenty of space to park and set up camp. Campsites are $10 for a basic spot and $14 for a site with electricity.
Trout Lakes Campground
Sleep among the trees at Trout Lakes Campground, which is located 35 miles from Heron Lake. It's set high in the mountains near a series of small lakes, so bring your fishing gear and spend quiet afternoons casting for trout. This is a quiet, relaxing spot with just five campsites. The campground is primitive; be prepared to pack out all waste and use the bathroom in your RV. Keep in mind that the road can be rough, so this is best for small RVs. Sites are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Rio Chama RV Park
With its shaded sites and stunning forest surroundings, Rio Chama RV Park is a picturesque spot to set up camp. Ask about sites next to the Rio Chama for the best views. This campground offers full hookups and pull-through sites up to 60 feet long; big rigs are welcome, and the camp store offers a range of RV supplies. Every site has a fire pit, picnic table, and access to the park's free Wi-Fi network. A few steps from camp, you can fish from the shore in the Rio Chama. Rates range from $27 to $49 per night for RV sites, with excellent discounts for weekly stays.
El Vado Lake State Park Campground
With a variety of basic and electric campsites, El Vado Lake State Park campground is a great alternative when the Heron Lake State Park campground is full. Sites are close to the massive El Vado Lake as well as the boat launch and hiking trails. There's a playground nearby for little ones; the park also offers showers, modern bathrooms, and a dump station. Expect to pay $10 for basic sites and $14 for spots with electric hookups.
What to Do at
Heron Lake State Park
Inside Heron Lake State Park
The centerpiece of Heron Lake State Park is the lake itself — with its large surface area and breathtaking surroundings, it's perfect for swimming and boating. Canoeing, kayaking, and sailing are popular activities; if you bring a motorboat, keep in mind that you must travel at no-wake speeds. While you're on the water, try fishing for the trout and salmon that live in the depths. You can also explore the shoreline on foot or by bike using the scenic seven-mile trail network. If you are coming in the winter, bring your ice-fishing gear snowshoes or cross-country skis.
How to Get to
Heron Lake State Park
The easiest way to reach Heron Lake State Park is from Santa Fe; from town, simply follow Highway 84 north. Head west on NM-95 just after Los Ojos, and you'll hit the park after a short drive. If you're coming from Taos, take Highway 64 west.
Entering Heron Lake State Park
Heron Lake State Park is open to visitors year-round; be sure to check the availability of facilities during the winter months.
Heron Lake State Park Day-use per vehicle : $5.0
If you're planning to paddle, hike, or fish Heron Lake State Park, RVshare wants to know what you think. Email your favorite stories, tips, and snapshots to [email protected], or simply tag RVshare when you post about the trip on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heron Lake State Park
Heron Lake State Park is a very pet-friendly place. Pets are welcome on the trails and in the campground, but they have to remain on leashes at all times.
Heron Lake State Park experiences moderate summers, but the winters can be harsh. During winter, it can get as cold as 6 degrees F and very snowy. Summer temperatures range from 39 to 85 degrees F.
If you're planning to go hiking, sailing, or camping, your best bet is to visit the park from May through September. However, the winter months also offer excellent opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Yes, there are more than 150 gravel primitive sites and 54 designated RV sites with electrical hookups. Most sites can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long.
You can spot many wildlife species at this state park, including mountain lions, black bears, elk, deer, marmots, bald eagles, osprey, and American white pelicans.