Clayton Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
New Mexico
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Explore archaeological and paleontological sites at Clayton Lake State Park and stop for a photo op inside the massive dinosaur footprints. This state park is at the far northern corner of New Mexico, only thirteen miles from the Clayton city limits, and nestled in grasslands, volcanic rocks, and sandstone bluffs. Nearby the park, you can visit Rita Blanca National Grassland, Capulin Volcano National Monument, or Herzstein Memorial Museum. Summers between the months of June and September are hot, while winters are cold and windy, and heavy snowfall is possible.
Nearest Cities:
Raton, NM
Boise City, OK
Dalhart, TX
Stratford, TX
Spring 43-67 F
Summer 53-90 F
Fall 43-67 F
Winter 28-47 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Clayton Lake State Park
Campground Accommodations
Peach Point Campground
Water: Yes
Electrical: Yes
Sewer: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Pet Friendly: Yes
Max RV Length: 44 feet
Other amenities: Potable water, toilets, showers, picnic tables, grills
South Point Campground
Water: Yes
Electrical: Yes
Sewer: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV Length: 44 feet
Other amenities: Potable water, toilets, showers, picnic tables, grills
Cove Campground
Water: Yes
Electrical: Yes
Sewer: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV Length: 44 feet
Other amenities: Potable water, toilets, showers, picnic tables, lake access, grills
Chicano Beach Campground
Water: Yes
Electrical: Yes
Sewer: Yes
Wi-Fi: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV Length: 44 feet
Other amenities: Potable water, toilets, showers, picnic tables, lake access, grills
Rock Garden Campground
Water: Yes
Electrical: Yes
Sewer: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Max RV Length: 44 Feet
Other amenities: Potable water, toilets, showers, picnic tables, lake access, and grills
Clayton Lake State Park Campgrounds
Fall asleep to the sound of the waves lapping at the shore when you book a site at the Clayton Lake State Park campgrounds. This is the perfect place to stay if you want to be the first one on the lake in the morning. There are five different camping areas spread throughout the park, with a total of 26 sites. Seven come with water, but the best option for RVs are the nine sites that feature water and 30-amp electric hookups. With bathrooms and showers, this park makes it easy for your crew to spread out. If you choose a basic site, expect to pay $10 per night; for a site with electricity, the fee is $14.
Clayton RV Park
Camp just 15 miles from Clayton Lake State Park at Clayton RV Park. It’s located in Clayton, making it a convenient choice if you’d like to be near restaurants and basic shopping. The park’s RV sites offer both 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups as well as water and sewer hookups. Connect to the Wi-Fi network for easy internet access at any time. With its pet area, game room, playground, and mini-golf course, this campground is perfect if you’re traveling with your family or your furry friends. Plus, with the showers and restrooms, everyone has space to clean up. Are you renting a big rig? Book one of the pull-through sites for easier parking. Nightly rates start at $34 for 30-amp power and $36 for 50-amp service. You also have the option to choose water and electric sites for $32 per night.
Capulin Camp & RV Park
Stay between Clayton Lake State Park and the popular Raton area at Capulin Camp & RV Park, which sits 65 miles west. If you’re traveling for an extended period, you’ll love the sparkling-clean showers and laundry area. Each RV site features full hookups, and you can access the free Wi-Fi network from all over the park. TV and telephone lines are also available. Feel free to bring your pet, and enjoy a quick stroll to the on-site country store to pick up any last-minute essentials or snacks. Rates start at $30 per night, and if you stay for a full week, your last night is free.
What to Do at
Clayton Lake State Park
Clayton Lake State Park spans 170 acres and is ideal for several outdoor activities, including stand-up paddleboarding, hiking the trails, kayaking, and fishing. Your family could spend time exploring the dinosaur tracks and experience the rich history of the reservoir. On-site is the UNM Outdoor Adventure Center, where you'll find all the gear you need for paddleboarding, camping, and sports. The Adventure Center also offers swimming lessons, club sports, a fitness center, and a weight room.
You can enjoy activities on the water at Clayton Lake State Park, including swimming, boating, kayaking, rafting, and canoeing. The state park has many animals, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to observe them.
Inside Clayton Lake State Park
One of the first things to see at Clayton Lake State Park is the dinosaur trackway. Here, you’ll find more than 500 perfectly preserved footprints that were made millions of years ago. This site is excellent for both kids and adults. Elsewhere in the area, you can hike the trails for views of the lake and the grasslands. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, head straight for the water. Sailboats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are the best way to explore, but you can also use a motorboat as long as you stick to no-wake speeds. Swimming is also a fun option, and many visitors enjoy long days of fishing from the shore or a boat.
Fishing
Fishing at Clayton Lake State Park yields excellent results, as guests have caught walleye, channel catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass. Visitors aren't required to purchase a fishing license if fishing on the state park property.
Geocaching
There are several caches at the park. When you find one, you can take a prize, but remember to bring along a family-friendly item to leave for the next treasure hunter.
Nature Watching
Clayton Lake State Park offers many spots for birdwatching, and you are likely to see mallard ducks, Canadian geese, and swans. The walking trails offer extraordinary views of wildlife, including the waterfowl on the lake.
Stargazing
Stargazing is fantastic at the beach. Or attend one of the star parties held at the observatory throughout the year.
Flora and Fauna
You'll see antelopes, foxes, mule deer, coyotes, hawks, and eagles at Clayton Lake State Park. While on the trails, you will wind through jasper, oak, and pine trees and traverse grasslands. If you visit during spring or early summer, you will be treated to colorful wildflowers.
Hiking
The state park has 1.4-mile hiking and interpretive trails to see picturesque views and explore dinosaur footprints. The Dinosaur Trail is not challenging and is perfect for a family outing.
Boating
At this state park, motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on the water, including canoes, kayaks, and fishing boats with lights. The lake spans 80 acres, where you can fish, swim, or commune with nature. Boat rentals are available at the park.
Swimming
You'll find a beach area with lake access where you and your family can enjoy a day of watersports. Check the signs throughout the park because you cannot swim in designated fishing areas.
How to Get to
Clayton Lake State Park
Start on US Highway 64 in Clayton, then take Highway 370 north for eleven miles, and turn onto Highway 455. The Clayton Lake State Park entrance is one mile down Highway 455.
Entering Clayton Lake State Park
You'll pay $5 for a day pass at the visitor center. Clayton Lake State Park offers many parking areas for cars and RVs. Two parking lots near the boat ramps are designated for RVs or cars.
Clayton Lake State Park Day Use (Per Vehicle) : $5.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Clayton Lake State Park
The best time to visit Clayton Lake State Park is between June and September, when temperatures are warmer. Winters in the area are frigid and windy, and there is a greater chance of heavy snowfall. However, visiting during non-peak seasons could offer greater availability for campsites and a more peaceful experience.
Clayton Lake State Park has abundant wildlife, including antelopes, foxes, mule deer, coyotes, hawks, and eagles. You'll also see Canadian geese, swans, mallard ducks, and freshwater fish within the lake area.
The campsites accommodate tents or RVs and have electrical and water connections. Each site also has a picnic table, fire ring, and nearby restrooms.
You aren't required to reserve a camping spot, but it is beneficial since some campgrounds have limited campsites. Calling ahead and making a reservation will ensure a spot. Sites are between $25 and $30 a night.
Clayton Lake State Park is pet friendly, and many visitors bring their dogs hiking with them. You must keep your pet on a leash and are expected to clean up after them.
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