Navajo Lake State Park - Navajo Dam, NM
Navajo Lake State Park: An Outdoor Haven for Dogs and Owners in Navajo Dam, New Mexico
Navajo Lake State Park is one of New Mexico’s largest parks, offering scenic views, extensive campgrounds, and pet-friendly trails that welcome both adventure seekers and their furry companions. Located at 1448 NM-511 #1, Navajo Dam, this destination is perfect for those looking for dog-friendly hiking, lakeside relaxation, or exploring the beautiful river access points known for their fishing and breathtaking vistas.
While the park does not feature a dedicated, fenced dog area, it provides large open spaces for field play, walking, jogging, and events—ideal for well-behaved, leashed dogs to join their owners on hikes or lakeside strolls. Shady picnic areas, walking paths, and benches are scattered throughout the park, making it a great spot to enjoy the outdoors with your pup. With convenient parking, restrooms, and access to a rich calendar of family-friendly events, Navajo Lake State Park stands out as a relaxing, welcoming location for both locals and visitors traveling with pets.
FAQ – Navajo Lake State Park
- Are leashed dogs allowed at this park? Yes, dogs are welcome at Navajo Lake State Park when kept on a leash, and they’re commonly seen enjoying the trails and picnic areas with their owners.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is currently no designated fenced dog area at the park.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features pet-friendly trails and paved paths excellent for walking and hiking with your dog.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there are multiple playgrounds, a skate park, and seasonal activities for kids and families.
- Is parking available at Navajo Lake State Park? Yes, free parking areas are available in multiple sections of the park.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms are available across the park, though availability may vary by campground and season.
Reviews
First the state of New Mexico has let a business the marina take over the whole side of lake. You can’t fish anywhere around the marina except a little opening at the marina. So if you are disabled or poor the state of New Mexico says screw you the lake are for people with boats and money. This is so stupid I can see not allowing snagging but not to allow fishing should be a crime. Shame on the state. I am luck my daughter has a boat and my friends have boat so me being disabled doesn’t effect me. But I seen a poor guy could Barely walk not even be able to fish except in a little hole at the marina. He said he’s been complaining that they won’t listen and he can’t walk this far as I need to go up there around all the boats in Marina area and everything. I think the state needs to address this and fix it.
My family and I stayed 2 nights it was quiet and very relaxing. We went rafting even though the water was very very cold but nonetheless we had an amazing time. Our campsite was Cottonwood and it was a great stay. We will definitely be back!
Very disappointed. I’ll forfeit the second night reservation. Beware Cottonwood campground, shower is 6 miles up the road. Two miles of extremely rough road to access it. Very sunny. Not a nice place to view lovely sights.
The lake was great, but the river accesses before you get to the lake is where it’s at. Try Texas Hole or Crusher – beautiful, and the fishing is good. Know that it a special area, and you must use barbless flys and lures.
The drive in was cool. The vistas from the campground are awesome. The sites are made for small RV’S. We have a 40′ and it was quite a time finding a site we could work with.
They were severely understaffed. The lady working the office was by herself. The was clearly uneasy with that fact and I don’t blame her one bit. We had to speak to someone over the phone to move sites on account of no one being around. The information they had online for the person on the phone to help us was not accurate.
Not to far from town and Aztec Ruins NP.
The marina looks great. Too many boats for such a small body of water IMO.