Brantley Lake

About

Brantley Lake State Park occupies the shores of New Mexico's southernmost lake, a reservoir created in the 1980s when the Bureau of Reclamation dammed the Pecos River. The park lies 12 miles north of Carlsbad and serves as an oasis of water recreation in the high desert at 3,295 feet elevation. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, white bass, walleye, channel catfish, trout, sunfish, bluegill, and crappie. The Limestone Campground contains 51 developed sites, including 38 with water and 30-amp electric, 10 with water and 50-amp electric, and 3 full-hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer. Each developed site has an elevated cooking grill, picnic table, and covered shelter. Primitive shoreline and boat-in camping are also available. Facilities include restrooms with showers, vault toilets, an RV dump station, playground, and a visitor center with exhibits. Beyond camping, the park offers two boat ramps supporting motorized boats, kayaks, personal watercraft, and sailing. A 2.6-mile hiking trail provides access to wildlife viewing and birding opportunities in this desert riparian habitat.

Directions

From Carlsbad, drive 12 miles north on US Highway 285. Turn right (east) on County Road 30 (Capitan Reef Road) and continue 4.5 miles. Turn left into the park.