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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Caballo Reservoir

Derry, New Mexico · Sierra County

Recreation at Caballo Dam and reservoir, Rio Grande Project, is managed by the New Mexico Division of Parks and Recreation under agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation. The The recreation area is open year around. Best fishing is late April through August. Entry fees charged. Good access roads. Nearest community is T…

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About Caballo Reservoir

Recreation at Caballo Dam and reservoir, Rio Grande Project, is managed by the New Mexico Division of Parks and Recreation under agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation. The The recreation area is open year around. Best fishing is late April through August. Entry fees charged. Good access roads. Nearest community is Truth or Consequences. The 11,000-acre reservoir created in 1938 across the Rio Grande, is 15 miles long with more than 50 miles of shoreline. Fishing opportunities on Caballo Reservoir are available for striped bass, white bass, crappie, largemouth bass, walleye, and catfish. Walleye fishing is available at Percha State Park, 2 miles south of Caballo Dam. Over 200 camping and picnicking sites; 66 with electric outlets and grills. Entry fees are charged. There are 2 boat ramps and concession-operated marinas, and stores. The area is also a premier birding location in the Southwest. Excellent riparian habitat exists below the dam attracting interesting birds in all seasons. Some to be seen are quail, flycatchers, tanagers, jays, and bluebirds. Caballo also is home to several wintering species such as grebes, pelicans, geese, ducks, Bald Eagles, and an assortment of gulls.

Plan Your Visit to Caballo Reservoir

Heading to Caballo Reservoir? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Caballo Reservoir?

No central reservation system listed for Caballo Reservoir. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/99) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Caballo Reservoir?

Take I-25 south 20 miles from Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.

How do I contact Caballo Reservoir?

You can reach the park at phone: 575-743-3942 or email: saul.baquerra@state.nm.us.