Summary
The park is known for its unique geological formations that create several small, deep lakes that appear to be "bottomless." There are several good reasons to visit the park, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping.
Some specific points of interest at Bottomless Lakes State Park include Lea Lake, Devil's Inkwell, and Mirror Lake. Lea Lake is the largest of the park's lakes and is a popular spot for swimming and boating. Devil's Inkwell is a small, deep lake that appears black due to its high concentration of minerals. Mirror Lake is known for its crystal-clear water, which provides a perfect reflection of the surrounding landscape.
Interesting facts about the park include its designation as New Mexico's first state park and the fact that the lakes were formed by collapsed underground caverns. The park also boasts a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 11,000 years.
The best time of year to visit Bottomless Lakes State Park is during the summer months, when temperatures are warm and the lakes are open for swimming and other water activities. However, visitors should be aware that temperatures can be hot and dry during this time, so it's important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Fall and spring can also be good times to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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