image

Heron Lake State Park RV Rentals

RV Rentals Dates
Home / National & State Park Guides / /  Heron Lake State Park

Looking for RV rentals, camper van rentals or travel trailer rentals near Heron Lake State Park?


Introduction

Heron Lake State Park is a prime destination for RV camping, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and recreational activities. Situated in the stunning landscape of northern New Mexico, the park provides a serene and scenic setting for outdoor enthusiasts.

Steeped in history and cultural significance, Heron Lake State Park is a testament to the rich heritage of the region. The area has been inhabited for centuries, with evidence of ancient Puebloan settlements and the presence of ancestral Pueblo people. The park’s cultural significance is further enhanced by the remnants of the Tierra Amarilla Land Grant, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the natural surroundings.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Heron Lake State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Heron Lake State Park.

Camping Accommodations

37

'

Max RV length

37

'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

View more RV Rentals

Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

Visitors can access Heron Lake State Park via private vehicle through multiple entrances. The park can be reached from the north via US Highway 64 and from the south via NM State Road 95. The park has restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 55 feet for RVs and trailers. Additionally private vehicle travel provides the flexibility to explore the park’s various attractions and access points.

  • Parking area

Heron Lake State Park offers designated RV camping areas equipped with parking facilities. Overnight parking outside of designated campsites is not permitted. It is recommended to camp with an RV in the park and utilize the vehicle as a base for exploring the various attractions as the park’s layout and terrain make alternative transportation methods less practical.

  • Public Transportation

Heron Lake State Park does not offer public transportation such as shuttle buses or walking paths for getting around the park. Visitors primarily rely on private vehicles to access different areas within the park. As a result having a personal vehicle including an RV provides the flexibility to navigate the park’s diverse terrain and access its various points of interest.

Top Campsites in Heron Lake State Park

  • Reservations camping

1. Willow Creek Campground

Located within Heron Lake State Park Willow Creek Campground is a sought-after destination offering 90 campsites. Situated along the shoreline it provides easy access to water-based activities such as boating and fishing. The campground is equipped with picnic areas restrooms and potable water. It is pet-friendly and open from May to September accommodating RVs and trailers up to 55 feet in length.

2. Ridge Rock Campground

Nestled near the park Ridge Rock Campground features 50 campsites and offers a tranquil setting surrounded by nature. Campers can enjoy hiking trails birdwatching and stargazing. The campground provides amenities such as fire pits picnic tables and vault toilets. It is pet-friendly and open from April to October welcoming RVs and trailers of varying sizes.

3. El Vado Lake State Park Campground

Situated near Heron Lake State Park El Vado Lake State Park Campground boasts 80 campsites providing a picturesque lakeside retreat. Visitors can engage in water activities including swimming and kayaking. The campground offers amenities such as showers dump stations and boat ramps. It is pet-friendly and open from March to November accommodating RVs and trailers up to 55 feet in length.

4. Chama River Bend RV Park

Located in close proximity to the park Chama River Bend RV Park offers 45 spacious RV sites along the scenic Chama River. The park provides full hookups laundry facilities and a clubhouse. Guests can enjoy fishing birdwatching and nearby hiking trails. The park is pet-friendly and open year-round welcoming RVs and trailers of varying sizes.

  • First-come first-served

1. Blanco Campground

Blanco Campground offers 25 first-come-first-served campsites providing a rustic camping experience in a serene natural setting. Open from May to September it accommodates RVs and trailers up to 35 feet in length. The campground provides basic amenities such as vault toilets picnic tables and fire rings. It is pet-friendly allowing visitors to enjoy the outdoors with their furry companions.

2. Ponderosa Campground

With 20 first-come-first-served campsites Ponderosa Campground offers a peaceful retreat amid the pine-covered hills. Open from April to October it welcomes RVs and trailers of varying sizes. The campground provides amenities including potable water vault toilets and picnic areas. It is pet-friendly allowing campers to bring their four-legged friends along for the outdoor adventure.

3. Willow Creek Overflow Campground

Willow Creek Overflow Campground offers 15 first-come-first-served sites providing an alternative camping option during peak seasons. Open from May to September it can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet in length. The campground offers basic facilities such as vault toilets and access to the scenic surroundings of Heron Lake State Park. It is pet-friendly allowing visitors to explore the area with their pets by their side.

  • Alternate camping

If the campsites within Heron Lake State Park are at capacity RV renters have alternative options for camping nearby. Private campgrounds in the vicinity offer additional choices for accommodation providing amenities and services for a comfortable stay. Additionally backcountry camping opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and public lands allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Private campgrounds such as El Vado Lake State Park Campground and Chama River Bend RV Park offer RV sites and facilities for those seeking alternative camping options. These private campgrounds provide a range of amenities including full hookups laundry facilities and proximity to outdoor recreational activities.

For a more adventurous camping experience backcountry camping in the Carson National Forest and Santa Fe National Forest provides opportunities for dispersed camping in designated areas. While backcountry camping requires a self-sufficient approach it offers the chance to experience the wilderness in a more secluded and natural setting. However it’s important to adhere to Leave No Trace principles and obtain any necessary permits or permissions for backcountry camping activities.

  • General activities

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity at Heron Lake State Park attracting outdoor enthusiasts seeking to reel in trout salmon and bass. The tranquil waters of Heron Lake provide an ideal setting for anglers to cast their lines and enjoy a day of fishing. The lake is also known for its excellent fly fishing opportunities with various access points along the shoreline and from boats. Anglers can expect to find prime fishing spots at the lake’s northern and southern arms as well as near the inlet and outlet areas.

Hiking

Hiking trails at Heron Lake State Park offer scenic exploration amid the park’s diverse landscapes. The Mesa Vista Trail provides captivating views of the surrounding mesas and the lake while the Ridge Rock Trail offers a moderate hike through pine-covered hills. Additionally the Willow Creek Trail leads to the lake’s shoreline offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings. Hikers can also explore the Rio Chama Trail which follows the river’s course and provides access to fishing spots and serene natural settings.

Boating

Boating is a favorite pastime at Heron Lake State Park with the expansive waters of the lake providing ample opportunities for water-based recreation. Visitors can launch their boats kayaks or canoes from designated ramps and explore the lake’s coves and inlets. Boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises water skiing or simply basking in the serenity of the lake’s surroundings. The park’s marinas and boat rental facilities offer convenient access to boating amenities and services.

Wildlife Viewing

Heron Lake State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts offering opportunities to observe a diverse array of bird species including bald eagles osprey and waterfowl. The park’s varied habitats from the lakeshore to the surrounding forests provide ideal conditions for birdwatching and wildlife sightings. Additionally visitors may encounter deer elk and other wildlife while exploring the park’s trails and natural areas.

Cycling

Cycling enthusiasts can explore the park’s scenic roads and trails enjoying the natural beauty and varied terrain of Heron Lake State Park. Cyclists can traverse the park’s paved roads and designated bike paths taking in panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. The park’s moderate to challenging trails cater to mountain bikers offering opportunities for off-road cycling adventures amid the pine-covered hills and along the lakeshore.

  • Alternative activities

Sightseeing

For RV campers seeking leisurely activities sightseeing at Heron Lake State Park offers breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. Scenic overlooks such as the Ridge Rock Trail and the Mesa Vista Trail provide panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. The park’s numerous viewpoints and observation areas offer opportunities to capture stunning images of the natural beauty including the tranquil waters of the lake the rugged mesas and the diverse flora and fauna that call the park home.

Nature Watching

Nature watching at Heron Lake State Park provides a serene and relaxing experience for RV campers. Visitors can observe the park’s diverse wildlife including bird species such as bald eagles osprey and herons. The park’s peaceful ambiance and natural surroundings create an ideal setting for observing wildlife in their native habitats. Additionally the park’s varied ecosystems from the lakeshore to the forested areas offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Photography

Heron Lake State Park offers abundant opportunities for capturing stunning photographs making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The park’s picturesque landscapes including the tranquil waters of the lake the surrounding pine-covered hills and the vibrant wildflowers provide a wealth of subjects for captivating images. RV campers can explore the park’s trails and scenic viewpoints to find the perfect spots for capturing Instagram-worthy photos of the natural beauty and scenic vistas.

Stargazing

The dark skies of Heron Lake State Park create an ideal environment for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. RV campers can enjoy the tranquil evenings and clear night skies offering unobstructed views of the stars and celestial phenomena. The park’s remote location and minimal light pollution provide opportunities for observing the night sky and celestial bodies making it a perfect setting for stargazing and astrophotography.

Picnicking

For a relaxed and enjoyable outdoor experience RV campers can partake in picnicking amid the natural beauty of Heron Lake State Park. The park offers designated picnic areas with scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes providing a perfect setting for a leisurely outdoor meal or a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature. Picnickers can savor the tranquility of the park while enjoying a meal with family and friends making the most of the park’s serene and picturesque surroundings.

Season-specific experiences in Heron Lake State Park

  • Spring activities

Wildflower Viewing

Spring brings a burst of vibrant wildflowers to Heron Lake State Park creating a picturesque display of color across the landscape. Visitors can explore the park’s trails and meadows to witness the blooming wildflowers including lupine Indian paintbrush and sunflowers. The Willow Creek Trail and the Mesa Vista Trail offer prime locations for wildflower viewing providing opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers to admire and capture the beauty of the seasonal blooms.

Birdwatching

Springtime at Heron Lake State Park offers excellent birdwatching opportunities as migratory birds return to the area. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of avian species including waterfowl songbirds and raptors. The park’s diverse habitats from the lakeshore to the surrounding forests provide ideal conditions for observing and identifying bird species. The Rio Chama Trail and the Willow Creek area are popular spots for birdwatching offering chances to see and photograph the park’s feathered inhabitants.

Historical Landmarks

History enthusiasts can explore the park’s historical landmarks including remnants of the Tierra Amarilla Land Grant and ancestral Puebloan settlements. The Tierra Amarilla Land Grant located near the park holds cultural significance and offers insights into the region’s rich heritage. Additionally visitors can discover traces of ancient Puebloan presence adding a historical dimension to the natural surroundings. Exploring these historical landmarks provides a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural and historical legacy.

Nature Photography

Springtime at Heron Lake State Park offers an abundance of photo opportunities for nature photographers. The park’s scenic landscapes blooming wildflowers and diverse wildlife create an ideal setting for capturing stunning images. Photography enthusiasts can explore the park’s trails and viewpoints to find the perfect spots for capturing the beauty of the seasonal changes from the vibrant wildflowers to the returning migratory birds. The park’s natural beauty during springtime provides endless subjects for captivating nature photography.

Fishing

Spring is an excellent time for fishing at Heron Lake State Park as the warmer weather and seasonal changes bring a renewed abundance of fish to the lake. Anglers can cast their lines from the shoreline or venture out onto the lake in boats to pursue a variety of fish species including trout salmon and bass. The park’s designated fishing areas and access points provide opportunities for anglers to enjoy the tranquil waters and abundant fishing opportunities during the spring season.

  • Summer activities

summer Heron Lake State Park offers a host of recreational activities for RV campers to enjoy. Boating becomes a popular pastime during this season with visitors taking to the expansive waters of the lake for leisurely cruises water skiing and fishing excursions. The park’s marinas and boat rental facilities provide convenient access to boating amenities and services. Additionally hiking takes center stage as the park’s trails beckon outdoor enthusiasts to explore the diverse landscapes and scenic viewpoints. Hikers can traverse the Mesa Vista Trail and the Willow Creek Trail soaking in the natural beauty and panoramic vistas. Furthermore wildlife viewing becomes a rewarding experience during the summer as the park’s varied habitats teem with birdlife and other wildlife offering ample opportunities for observation and photography.

  • Fall activities

During the fall Heron Lake State Park presents a stunning tapestry of seasonal beauty and outdoor activities for RV campers. Hiking in the crisp autumn air becomes a favorite pastime as visitors explore the park’s trails amidst the vibrant hues of changing foliage. The Ridge Rock Trail and the Rio Chama Trail offer captivating autumnal scenery and opportunities for nature photography. Additionally fishing experiences a resurgence in the fall as the cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for anglers to pursue trout and salmon in the lake’s waters. The park’s tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings provide a serene backdrop for leisurely fishing outings. Furthermore wildlife watching becomes an enriching experience as migratory birds and other wildlife make their seasonal appearances adding to the allure of the park’s natural wonders.

  • Winter activities

In the winter Heron Lake State Park offers a unique and tranquil setting for RV campers to enjoy recreational activities. Wildlife viewing becomes a rewarding experience as visitors may encounter wintering bird species and observe the park’s resident wildlife against the backdrop of snow-covered landscapes. The park’s serene ambiance and pristine winter scenery provide opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. Additionally the park’s trails offer opportunities for winter hiking and snowshoeing allowing outdoor enthusiasts to explore the snow-dusted landscapes and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the park in its winter attire. Furthermore the park’s peaceful atmosphere provides a serene setting for stargazing and observing the winter night sky offering unobstructed views of the stars and celestial phenomena.

View more RV Rentals
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*