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.

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.

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.

Take a trip around the El Vado Reservoir! This beautiful 3200 acre lake is home to a number of quiet coves along the shoreline that harbor fantastic fishing. Take your canoe or kayak out and explore as much as you wish. This lake is open to motorized boats, so be aware. Birdwatching is plentiful at the lake and you have the opportunity to head down the Rio Chama if you are an experienced kayaker, or up a few miles of the Rio Chama at the northern end of the lake (during excellent boating conditions only) if you are a beginner. There are a number of places to camp, both primitive and developed around the lake, and up the Rio Chama canyon (where there is no fee). There is a $5 per vehicle entrance fee and an $8 - $10 camping fee.