Navajo Lake is New Mexico's 2nd largest lake, and a great one to get out and explore! There are two boat ramps to chose from, with the Pine Recreation Area being the largest and most developed (the Sims Mesa ramp is located opposite the lake and is accessible via Highway 527). Take your time to explore all the nooks and crannies of this lake - be aware that it is open to motorized boats, and the winds can kick up pretty quick, so if you are out in the open waters keep an eye out for waves and headwinds. The shorelines are all fantastic to explore and the lake is home to a bounty of fish - so bring your pole! There are also a number of camping options, both primitive and developed. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle and an $8 - $10 fee per night of camping.

Just below Heron Lake State Park, lies El Vado Reservoir, another great boating destination. One of the most beautiful areas of the lake to explore is the north end, accessible via the north El Vado Boat Ramp. This ramp and this route are only available during when the water is high and boating conditions are excellent. Pop your canoe or kayak in here and explore a few miles up the canyon of the Rio Chama. There are a number of primitive camping sites available in the canyon that do not require a fee. This area is also listed as a no-wake area, so it should be calm and peaceful. Great place for birdwatching and easily navigable. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle.

Heron Lake is ideal for canoeing & kayaking. This is a big lake, 5900 acres, and there are a number of recommended routes to take your boat, with the East/West Lake Exploratory Camp route being a great opportunity to hone your navigational & open water skills. This option is for more seasoned boaters, as you will experience long distance and open waters. Be sure to check the weather before you make the trip so that you can expect the winds, and you can file a float plan with the park rangers, in case of emergency. You will put in at the Willow Creek launch ramp and make your way over to the west side primitive camping sites. After spending the night (or however long you wish), continue your trip along the south side of the lake back up to where you started in the narrow. Motorized boats are allowed at Herons Lake, but there is a no-wake mandate. There is a $5 per vehicle entrance fee and an $8/night camping fee for the primitive sites.

Head out to Caballo Lake State Park the next time you want to get away from it all. This lake is far less populated than the nearby Elephant Butte Lake State Park, and the northern end of the lake is superb for wildlife viewing. The best birdwatching for canoes and kayaks is from October - February, where you may see bald eagles, herons, cormorants, and many more. Keep an eye out for mammals too, like beavers and badgers, as they frequent the area. The entire lake is open to paddlesports, but there are no restrictions on motorboats. Winds can also kick up quickly so keep an eye out for the wind warning lights. When the water levels are low, the lake is much smaller, and the northern section may not be accessible. Also see the Rio Grande River Run from Elephant Butte to Caballo lake. $5 entrance fee per vehicle.

Located at almost 10,000 feet, the Canjilon Lakes in the Carson National Forest offer scenic beauty galore. There are a number of these lakes (although this route just shows two options) which offer the perfect opportunity for some lazy paddling and fishing in peace and quiet. There is also a large campground available, to make it a nice weekend excursion. You will be surrounded by forest as well as having fantastic views of Canjilon Mountain at your fingertips.

Lake Maloya makes for an awesome spring or fall canoe/kayaking trip, with a bounty of birds to be seen! This 130-acre lake, right by the Colorado border, lies within Sugarite Canyon State Park. There are no motorized boats allowed on the lake, leaving the paddlers with peace and solitude. Swimming is not allowed in the lake, due to the fact that the City of Raton uses it for their drinking water. Because it is used for drinking and not irrigation, that keeps the lakes levels fairly consistent, so you should know what you are getting in to. Tons of birds call this lake home, both while migrating through or year-round. In addition, you can catch glimpses of local wildlife on the shores. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle and campsites are $10/night.

Fenton Lake is a beautiful high mountain lake surrounded by coniferous forest in the Jemez Mountains. This lake is popular for fishing a paddle sports, as the only motorized boats that are allowed are those with electric trolling motors. The lake is surrounded by high ridges on all sides, which negates the impact of any wind, so it will be an easy ride. There are many campsites located down the Rio Cebolla if you wish to make it a weekend trip. $5 entrance fee per vehicle.

Morphy is a small lake located at the base of Sangre de Cristo mountains. The lake is hidden among a forest of pine trees and is now accessible by a recently paved road. This is a popular fishing destination and a great place to get some paddling in, especially if you are planning on camping for the weekend - very secluded and scenic. Be prepared for cold water immersion while on this lake, even if you don't plan on capsizing. $5 entrance fee per vehicle.

Heron Lake is ideal for canoeing & kayaking. If you are in the area in July, check out the annual Osprey Festival, where you'll get the opportunity to check out some Osprey nesting sites. This is a big lake, 5900 acres, and there are a number of recommended routes to take your boat, with Willow Creek being a great opportunity for a relaxing paddling adventure. Most of your trip should be fairly well sheltered while heading up the narrows towards Willow Creek, which feeds into the lake. You should have no difficulty navigating this route and it is suitable for beginners. You will put in at the Willow Creek launch ramp. Motorized boats are allowed at Herons Lake, but there is a no-wake mandate. There is a $5 per vehicle entrance fee.

Take a kayaking or canoeing trip out to Elephant Butte Lake State Park, New Mexico's largest and most popular lake! The eastern shoreline is ideal for paddlecraft and a great place to explore, look for birds, etc. There are nice places to set up camp along the eastern shore or the islands that dot the lake. There are no motorized boat restrictions on this lake, and it can get windy, causing large waves. Be prepared and keep on eye on the wind warning lights and storm flags. If you're interested in something a little more excited, check out the seasonal Rio Grande River run, starting below the dam at the state park. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle and some campsites require a fee.