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New Mexico
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New Mexico State Parks

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USA Parks
New Mexico
Southeast Region
Bottomless Lakes State Park
Bottomless Lakes State Park © NMMIMAJ / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The stone tower at Bottomless Lakes, NM.
Bottomless Lakes State Park © Robert Bailey
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BOTTOMLESS LAKES STATE PARK
BOTTOMLESS LAKES STATE PARK
545 A Bottomless Lakes Rd.
Roswell, New Mexico   88201

Phone: 505-624-6056
Reservations: 877-664-7787
Email: park email button icon
Actually seven small park lakes bordered by high red bluffs, Bottomless Lakes State Park offers a variety of sports including hiking, swimming, fishing, and scuba diving.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Swimming Beachyes
CampingPrimitive, #50
Swimming
1. Bottomless Lakes State Park offers several swimming options in New Mexico.
2. The park's main attraction is Lea Lake, a deep natural sinkhole perfect for swimming and diving.
3. Lea Lake has a large designated swim area with lifeguards on duty during peak season.
4. There are also sandy beaches along the lake shore where visitors can relax or picnic after their swim.
5. Paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are other water activities available at this location besides traditional swimming.

6. Devils Inkwell, another smaller lake within the park allows wading but not full-fledged swimming due to its depth restrictions.

7. Figure Eight Lake does not permit any form of recreational activity including fishing or boating as it serves wildlife purposes only.

8. Pasture Lake provides opportunities for bird-watching rather than aquatic recreation; no human contact with water allowed here either.


9. Cottonwood Day Use Area near Mirror Lagoon features shaded areas ideal for picnicking post-swim sessions from nearby lakes.



10. Swimming lessons aren't provided by state parks so ensure you're comfortable before venturing into deeper waters.




Boating
The park, located in New Mexico, offers a variety of boating options for visitors. Non-motorized boats such as canoes and paddleboards are permitted on the lakes within the park. However, motorboats or any other watercraft with engines are not allowed to maintain tranquility and protect wildlife habitats. The largest lake - Lea Lake is open for swimming and has lifeguards during summer months while fishing is popular at Cottonwood Lake.
Fishing
In this park, visitors can fish in Lea Lake year-round. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout during winter months.

During the rest of the year, you may catch catfish and largemouth bass.

A valid New Mexico fishing license is required for anyone over age 12.

Fishing from boats or float tubes isn't allowed; only shoreline angling permitted here.

Remember to follow all state regulations regarding size limits and bag restrictions when catching any species.


Location
Bottomless Lakes State Park is located near Roswell

Picnicking
1. Bottomless Lakes State Park offers numerous picnic spots with tables and grills.
2. Enjoy a lakeside meal at the Lea Lake day-use area.
3. There are covered pavilions for larger group picnics available by reservation.
4. Picnic areas offer stunning views of the unique blue-green lakes in this park.
5. Some sites have fire pits, perfect for evening cookouts or marshmallow roasting sessions.

Bicycling
Cycling enthusiasts can explore the park's 3.5-mile trail, but be aware it is moderately difficult with some steep sections.

Mountain biking is allowed on this path too; however, riders should proceed carefully due to uneven terrain and loose gravel.

For a more relaxed ride, consider cycling along the paved roads within the area - just watch out for vehicle traffic!

Remember that New Mexico's weather can change rapidly so always check forecasts before setting off on your bike adventure.

Also note there are no bicycle rentals available in-park; visitors must bring their own or rent from nearby Roswell city outlets.

Always wear helmets while riding as safety precautions cannot be overemphasized given potential risks involved in outdoor activities like bicycling.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species such as roadrunners, quails, and hawks. The park's wetlands attract numerous waterfowl too.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 19 Swimming fun by Robbie Morrison
park review stars; one to five This is a great place to swim and have fun. We went on June 19 it was a very hot Sunday. Temp was 106. The cool water was a surprise. The only issue we had was lots of people would leave their trash and noone was picking up any trash during the day. They need more rangers cleaning up trash.
January 27 Awesome!!!!!! by Alixxxx*
park review stars; one to five Its actually 7 small lakes!Whoa! All the activities are awsome.
June 24 A nice out of the way park by jelsberry
park review stars; one to five Park was neat and clean. Stayed in mid september so the pool closed and park was not busy.
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Directions
To get to Bottomless Lakes State Park from Roswell, head east on US 380 for 12 miles and then south on NM 409 for three miles.

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New Mexico
56

New Mexico State Parks

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