Caballo Lake

About

Caballo Lake State Park occupies the western shore of Caballo Lake, a 12,000-acre reservoir impounded by Caballo Dam on the Rio Grande. Located about 15 miles south of Truth or Consequences in Sierra County, the park serves as a major recreation hub for southern New Mexico. The lake supports populations of largemouth and white bass, walleye, crappie, and catfish, making it a year-round fishing destination. Steady afternoon winds draw windsurfers and kiteboaders, while calmer mornings suit kayakers and canoeists. The park's four campgrounds—Appaloosa, Palomino, Riverside, and the RV Rally area—provide 170 developed sites. Most feature water and 30-amp electric hookups; Palomino Campground adds full hookup sites with sewer and a dump station. Pull-through sites accommodate rigs up to 40-50 feet. Facilities include restrooms with flush toilets and showers, vault toilets in outlying areas, picnic tables, and BBQ grills. Primitive camping is available along the lakeshore and via boat-in access. The park lies along the Rio Grande flyway, attracting sandhill cranes, snow geese, and numerous waterfowl during migration. A visitor center near the entrance provides information and a life jacket loaner station. Note that GPS navigation can be unreliable—Google Maps may route visitors incorrectly to Smith Ranch. The correct approach is south on Highway 187 from Caballo for six miles.

Directions

From Truth or Consequences, head south on I-25 to Exit 59, then south on Highway 187 for approximately 6 miles. Note: GPS navigation may incorrectly route to Smith Ranch—follow Highway 187 signs to the park entrance.