Elephant Butte Lake in New Mexico

This was the first view we saw of Elephant Butte Lake when we arrived in the area.  Elephant Butte Lake is the largest lake in New Mexico and is a reservoir on the Rio Grande River.  We have plans to stay about 3 weeks to get to know the area and for Bill to try some fishing.

As the sign below tells us, construction of the dam began in 1911.  It was a project of the Bureau of Reclamation to provide for irrigation and flood control of the Rio Grande.  The dam's dedication ceremony was held October 16, 1916.  The lake was already forming behind the dam before the dedication.

This sign has some good information and is located at an overlook of the dam.

The southern area of the lake was the site of a large Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp.  The camp was established in 1934 with a company of men transferred from Fort Bliss, Texas.  The mission of this camp was to build a large park and recreation area for the tourist's use and enjoyment of the lake.

A view of Rio Grande River flowing from the dam.

At the dam overlook, you can also see the island from which the lake takes its name.  The island is also a butte (a hill with steep, often vertical sides and a small, relatively flat top).  If you use your imagination, you can see what looks like an elephant head and ears on the left hand side of the island.

Access to this lake on its west side is through Elephant Butte State Park.  It is New Mexico's largest and most visited park.  It is relatively quiet this time of year.  The park is used for many water sports including waterskiing, pleasure boating, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, swimming and scuba diving.  The south end of the lake has a large houseboat area. 

Just a few more views of this fascinating lake and its landscape. 

Bill's first day of fishing and so far it is slow.  We will keep you updated on his successes (or not).  The lake has a large variety of fish including striped bass, walleye, largemouth, smallmouth and white bass, catfish, crappie and bluegills.  The river also has trout.

A beautiful sunset from our RV park which is located just across the highway from the state park.  We have found several nice walking paths near the RV park - one is part of the state park and includes a nature path.  We are really happy with this RV park.  It has large spaces for your RV and parking.  It is very quiet.  The grounds are well-kept and very clean.  All the facilities - showers, restrooms, community room, etc. - are all exceptional.