Percha Dam State Park

Visit Percha Dam State Park, a hidden gem in the New Mexico park system. The park is located 21 miles south of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, and it encompasses the 11,500 acre Percha Lake, where the Rio Grande River is dammed. The park offers exciting outdoor recreation and world-class wildlife watching.

Amenities

You have two options for staying overnight. You can stay in one of 50 undeveloped tent sites, or you can park your RV for the night next to an electricity hookup. There are vault-style bathrooms and running water, but no shower areas. These camp sites are tucked away in groves of cottonwoods, salt cedar and Russian olive trees. All parking lots, campgrounds and many trails around the lake are paved and handicap accessible.

Fishing

Shoreline fishing on Percha Lake is very productive during the summer months. Boats are also permitted below the dam, but you must observe slow wake zone regulations. Here, you can cast your line to land several species of trout and seemingly unlimited numbers of walleye. Dry fly techniques are extremely successful here, but the lake caters to all types of fishing styles.

Birdwatching

Percha Lake is an oasis in a desert-like environment. This large body of water attracts hundreds of species of birds that use the lake as a stop over during migrations. The lake is heavily populated by ducks, geese, American white pelicans and sandhill cranes, and you can also see the majestic American bald eagle fishing over the lake. Many other raptor species are present here, including northern goshawks and golden eagles. In addition to these large species, you can also spot numerous smaller birds inhabiting the area.

Catering to anglers and birdwatchers, Percha Dam State Park provides exceptional outdoor recreational activities. This park is a wonderful place for a weekend getaway to escape from the crowds and relax next to a cooling lake.