Sumner Dam and Lake Sumner, features of the Carlsbad Project, are on the Pecos River about 250 river miles north of Carlsbad and about 16 miles northwest of Fort Sumner, New Mexico. The Lake has 4,500 water surface acres when full with 60 miles of shoreline. Recreation is managed for Reclamation by the New Mexico State
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 505-355-2541 · david.sanchez1@state.nm.us
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Lake Sumner — 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 Lake Sumner?
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 Lake Sumner. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Lake Sumner?
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 — hiking is one of the listed activities at Lake Sumner.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Lake Sumner. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
Wordbuilder / CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Santa Rosa Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
Thomson200 / CC0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Conchas Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
