Elephant Butte Lake State Park

The MDS main ramp is open for us. All launching and loading of vessels is at the operators own risk.

Closure — Both the Upper Ridge Road and Rock Canyon comfort stations will… (through Feb 28, 2027)
Posted Sep 28, 2026 - 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.

Announcement — Due to historically low water levels, vessels launching in the…
Posted Aug 18, 2026 - 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.

Restriction — Metal detecting within a state park is prohibited unless a…
Posted Aug 7, 2025 - 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)

Closure — Due to the inherent hazards posed by low water levels, the…
Posted Jun 20, 2025 - Due to the inherent hazards posed by low water levels, the Cliffs Area of the state park will remain closed indefinitely.

Restriction — The use of off-highway motor vehicles (OHVs) is prohibited in…
Posted Jun 20, 2025 - 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).

Announcement — Day-use hours at the state park are from 6:00AM to 9:00PM daily
Posted Jun 20, 2025 - 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.