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Elephant Butte Lake State Park

Announcements

Due to historically low water levels, vessels launching in the park will encounter hazardous conditions because of sediment and historical debris. Four-wheel drive is required for all launching and retrieving of vessels. All launching and retrieval of vessels is also undertaken at the operator’s own risk. Park staff are working daily to clear debris as lake levels level out. Visitors are encouraged to report any hazards or concerns to park staff.
    Posting Dates: 08-18-2026 - 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

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
Please be advised that all boat ramps in the park are closed due to low water levels. We anticipate reopening when water levels increase, and conditions allow. All launching and retrieving of vessels is at the operators own risk.
    Posting Dates: 8/18/2026 - ongoing
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

Poor
Elevation (MSL): 4,280.420
Surface (Acres): 2,572.000
Volume (Acre Feet): 39,570.000

Ramp Status

Main Ramp (Closed)
Rock Canyon Ramp (Closed)
Monticello Ramp (Closed)
    Last Updated 9/28/2026



Job Opportunities

No Job Opportunities are posted.


Seasonal Jobs

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Volunteer Positions

No Volunteer Positions are posted.




ADDRESS & PHONE

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

 
 
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