Enjoy beachside camping fun at one of New Mexico’s many rivers and lakes.
While New Mexico doesn't have a coastline, it does have plenty of lakes and reservoirs, quite a few of which have sandy beaches. Many of New Mexico's beaches and waterways are protected under the state parks system, including Bottomless Lake, Bluewater Lake, Elephant Butte Lake, Eagle Nest Lake, and the vaguely heart-shaped Storrie Lake. Many offer campsites just a few steps from the shoreline and attract droves in the warmer months with ample opportunities to fish, swim, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard. Because of their popularity, public campgrounds with beach access often fill up quickly, leaving last-minute campers few options other than to simply come as a day-use visitor and then pack up in the evening. Fortunately, many private camping and glamping options exist near beaches across the state, from pond-side tent sites to cozy cabins.