When you think of a destination for water lovers, New Mexico likely isn’t the first place that springs to mind. People who’ve never visited assume that the Land of Enchantment is one large, cacti-strewn desert. Those with a better knowledge of the state are still aware of our limited water supplies. But there’s one place in New Mexico that’s filled with water.
Farmington is located in northwestern New Mexico and is part of the Four Corners Region. While technically a small city, Farmington retains the more intimate feel of a town. That, paired with its abundance of lakes and rivers make it the ideal place to visit during summer.
- The Beach at Lake Farmington
Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau Sandy beaches are rare in New Mexico, but you can get that sand-between-your-toes feeling here. In addition to the newly expanded beach, there is a swimming area…
…A play zone that includes a trampoline and slides…
Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau And plenty of lifeguards – it’s a great spot to take the family.
- The San Juan River
Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau This river is renowned for its fishing opportunities for a reason. The just over four-mile-long stretch of water below Navajo Dam is teeming with 80,000 trout. Those are some pretty good odds. Sign up with a guide or test the waters for yourself.
- The Animas River
Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau If you haven’t heard of River White Water Park, then you’re missing out. When the water is high, seasoned kayakers take on these Class I and II rapids. When the water is less intense, this remains a popular river for kayaking and tubing.
- Shady hiking trails
Flickr/Tye Redhouse You don’t have to be on the water to appreciate it. Follow the Animas River Trails and discover enchanting scenery along the way.
- Charming parks
Flickr/Joel Deluxe Berg Park is also riverfront and a pleasant spot for a picnic, while Animas Park offers the Riverside Nature Center.
- Navajo Lake State Park
Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau After Elephant Butte, Navajo Lake is the largest reservoir in the state. Here you’ll find large marinas…
Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau …and plenty of different craft to rent, from paddle boards to pedal boats and hydrobikes (think spin class meets pontoons)!
- Rich culture
Flickr/Tracey Adams Active pursuits aren’t the only way to spend time outdoors. Learn about this area’s fascinating history at the Salmon Ruins.
- B Square Ranch
Flickr/killbox Where else can you find Elvis’ Cadillac, cans of creamed possum, and a taxidermied crocodile? For more info.
- Day trip potential
Flickr/John Fowler Some of the most remote areas in New Mexico are an easy day trip from the city. Explore Angel Peak Scenic Area…
…Or venture out into the surreal Bisti Badlands.
Flickr/KrisNM
Throw in some scrumptious restaurants (ahem, Dona Maria) and food trucks like InfiniteBBQ (at 1801 N Sullivan Avenue), along with the chance to stay in a cave and you’re looking at a treasure trove of summer memories. What are you waiting for?
Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau
Sandy beaches are rare in New Mexico, but you can get that sand-between-your-toes feeling here. In addition to the newly expanded beach, there is a swimming area…
And plenty of lifeguards – it’s a great spot to take the family.
This river is renowned for its fishing opportunities for a reason. The just over four-mile-long stretch of water below Navajo Dam is teeming with 80,000 trout. Those are some pretty good odds. Sign up with a guide or test the waters for yourself.
If you haven’t heard of River White Water Park, then you’re missing out. When the water is high, seasoned kayakers take on these Class I and II rapids. When the water is less intense, this remains a popular river for kayaking and tubing.
Flickr/Tye Redhouse
You don’t have to be on the water to appreciate it. Follow the Animas River Trails and discover enchanting scenery along the way.
Flickr/Joel Deluxe
Berg Park is also riverfront and a pleasant spot for a picnic, while Animas Park offers the Riverside Nature Center.
After Elephant Butte, Navajo Lake is the largest reservoir in the state. Here you’ll find large marinas…
…and plenty of different craft to rent, from paddle boards to pedal boats and hydrobikes (think spin class meets pontoons)!
Flickr/Tracey Adams
Active pursuits aren’t the only way to spend time outdoors. Learn about this area’s fascinating history at the Salmon Ruins.
Flickr/killbox
Where else can you find Elvis’ Cadillac, cans of creamed possum, and a taxidermied crocodile? For more info.
Flickr/John Fowler
Some of the most remote areas in New Mexico are an easy day trip from the city. Explore Angel Peak Scenic Area…
Flickr/KrisNM
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