Welcome to the New Mexico State Parks Infomation Page
Elephant Butte Lake State Park

Announcements

With lake levels having risen substantially, the Marina Del Sur and Rock Canyon boat ramps are now accessible, and four-wheel drive is no longer required for launching or loading vessels. However, boaters should remain aware that submerged debris, sediment, and other underwater hazards may still be present due to previously low water levels and changing lake conditions. All launching and retrieval activities are performed at the operator’s own risk. Park staff continue to monitor conditions and remove hazards as they are identified. Visitors are encouraged to report any debris, hazards, or safety concerns to park staff.
    Posting Dates: 11-06-2026 - ongoing
Day-use hours at the state park are from 6:00AM to 9:00PM daily. Any visitation after 9:00PM must pay for overnight camping.
    Posting Dates: 06-20-2025 - ongoing

Closures

Please be advised that the South Monticello boat ramp is closed due to low water levels. We anticipate reopening when water levels increase, and conditions allow. The Marina Del Sur and Rock Canyon ramps are open for us. All launching and loading of vessels is at the operator’s own risk.
    Posting Dates: 11/6/2026 - ongoing
Both the Upper Ridge Road and Rock Canyon comfort stations will be closed for the winter season from October 1st, 2026 through February 28th, 2027.
    Posting Dates: 9/28/2026 - 2/28/2027
Due to the inherent hazards posed by low water levels, the Cliffs Area of the state park will remain closed indefinitely.
    Posting Dates: 6/20/2025 - ongoing

Restrictions

Metal detecting within a state park is prohibited unless a visitor obtains the superintendent’s permission to use metal detectors for scientific activities such as projects permitted through the New Mexico cultural properties review committee or to retrieve lost items. (NMAC 19.5.2.24)
    Posting Dates: 8/7/2025 - ongoing
The use of off-highway motor vehicles (OHVs) is prohibited in New Mexico State Parks, as stipulated by the NM OHV Act and State Park Regulations (NMSA 66-3-1011, 16-2-33 19 NMAC Ch 5 Sec 2.16 A).
    Posting Dates: 6/20/2025 - ongoing

Boating Conditions

Fair
Elevation (MSL): 4,308.730
Surface (Acres): 6,896.000
Volume (Acre Feet): 167,618.000

Ramp Status

Main Ramp (Open)
Rock Canyon Ramp (Open)
Monticello Ramp (Closed)
    Last Updated 11/6/2026



Job Opportunities

No Job Opportunities are posted.


Seasonal Jobs

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Volunteer Positions

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ADDRESS & PHONE

101 Hwy 195
Elephant Butte NM 87935
575-744-5923

 
 
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