Caballo Lake, reservoir on the Rio Grande in New Mexico, United States
Caballo Lake is a reservoir created by the Caballo Dam on the Rio Grande in southern New Mexico. The lake is bordered by the Caballo Mountains to the northeast, east, and southeast, with varied shorelines featuring rocky beaches and sandy patches that change depending on water levels.
The lake was formed by constructing the Caballo Dam to hold back the Rio Grande and provide water storage for nearby farms and towns. The creation of the reservoir brought new recreational opportunities to the region and became essential for local water management during dry seasons.
The lake takes its name from the nearby Caballo Mountains, with "Caballo" meaning "horse" in Spanish. The mountains were named for wild horses that once roamed the region, and this cultural connection remains present in local stories and how visitors experience the landscape.
The park has about 170 camping sites for tents and RVs, with many offering electrical hookups and amenities including boat docks, boat ramps, restrooms, and showers. Gates remain open from early morning through evening, with designated quiet hours at night to ensure restful conditions for all visitors.
During periods of low water levels, a whirlpool can form near the dam that poses danger to swimmers and boaters, making it essential for visitors to keep their distance. This natural occurrence is why park staff monitor certain areas and warn people to stay well back from the dam structure.
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