Bluewater Lake State Park

Bluewater Lake State Park is a recreational area in the Zuni Mountains centered around a large freshwater lake spanning roughly 4.9 square kilometers. The park sits at a high elevation of about 2,256 meters and provides multiple zones for camping, fishing, and day-use activities.

The park was established in 1937 by the New Mexico State Parks Division to protect outdoor recreation opportunities in the mountain region. It has since grown into a long-standing destination where water activities and mountain life have been preserved.

The park draws fishing enthusiasts year-round who come to catch tiger muskie, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and channel catfish. You'll often see people gathered along the shoreline, sharing their catches and enjoying the outdoor lifestyle the lake supports.

The park provides 149 campsites with varying setups including sites with electrical hookups, beach camping, and boat-in camping for different visitor preferences. The high elevation means cool nights and weather can change quickly, so visitors should pack accordingly for mountain conditions.

The lake freezes solid during winter months due to the high elevation, creating an ice fishing opportunity that surprises many visitors who expect milder southern conditions. This seasonal transformation is rarely publicized but offers a completely different experience from summer visits.

Location: Cibola County

Inception: 1937

Website: https://emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/bluewater-lake-state-park

GPS coordinates: 35.29440,-108.11000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:42