Primitive and beach camping will be free Aug. 1 through Sept. 30 as drought and historically low reservoir levels reshape recreation

Organ Mountain News report

ELEPHANT BUTTE - New Mexico State Parks is extending camping stays across the system and temporarily waiving fees for primitive and beach camping at Elephant Butte and Caballo Lake state parks as drought continues to reshape recreation conditions.

Beginning Saturday, Aug. 1, designated primitive and beach camping areas at both southern New Mexico parks will be available at no cost through Sept. 30.

Primitive camping areas are undeveloped and do not include designated sites or utility connections for water or electricity.

State Parks also increased the maximum stay at parks statewide from seven to 14 consecutive days. The 14-day limit will remain in effect through April 30.

The changes come after the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation ended its seasonal water release from Elephant Butte Reservoir on Wednesday. State officials said the end of the release should stabilize water levels for the rest of the summer.

Historically low reservoir levels have altered the shoreline and affected boating and water access at Elephant Butte. The park remains open for boating, camping, fishing, birdwatching and shoreline recreation where conditions allow.

Elephant Butte remains open as falling water exposes debris, limits boat access

Elephant Butte Lake State Park remains open as falling water levels expose debris, create shoreline hazards and affect boat ramp access.

Organ Mountain NewsOrgan Mountain News

“Drought is changing the way New Mexicans and other visitors experience their state parks, but it doesn’t change our commitment to keeping these places accessible and welcoming,” State Parks Director Toby Velásquez said.

Velásquez said longer stays could also benefit surrounding communities as visitors purchase food, fuel and other goods outside park boundaries.

Elephant Butte and Caballo Lake state parks are longstanding recreation destinations and economic anchors for Sierra County.

“When visitors stay at their state parks, their experience doesn’t end at the park boundary,” Velásquez said. “They grab breakfast, buy gas, visit local businesses and explore the local communities.”

State Rep. Rebecca Dow said the expanded stay limits and temporary fee waiver could help sustain visitation after the seasonal water release ended.

“Now that the water release has ended, the beach areas provide a great opportunity for people to continue to visit and enjoy everything Sierra County has to offer,” Dow said.

Beginning Oct. 1, New Mexico residents will also receive free day-use access at state parks through April 30, except at Rio Grande Nature Center State Park and Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park.