Elephant Butte Dam and Reservoir are features of the Rio Grande Project, located located on the Rio Grande, 125 miles north of El Paso, Texas. Recreation at Elephant Butte Reservoir is managed by the New Mexico State Parks under agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation. The recreation area is open year-round. Elephant
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Official / Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.emnrd.state.nm.us ↗
- Contact 575-744-5923 · kay.dunlap@state.nm.us
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Elephant Butte Reservoir — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Elephant Butte Reservoir?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Elephant Butte Reservoir. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Elephant Butte Reservoir?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Paseo del Rio Trail, Luchini Trail. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Elephant Butte Reservoir. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Lake Valley Backcountry Byway
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Caballo Reservoir
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
