Bottomless Lakes State Park is one of the most unusual outdoor destinations in New Mexico. Located about 14–15 miles southeast of Roswell, this scenic park is famous for a chain of eight sinkhole lakes that range from about 17 to 90 feet deep. Their greenish-blue water and steep surrounding formations create the illusion that the lakes have no bottom.
The park is much more than a scenic stop. Visitors can swim at Lea Lake, kayak or canoe, camp, hike, fish in designated lakes, scuba dive, picnic, watch wildlife, and enjoy the desert landscape. There are also developed camping facilities, picnic shelters, a playground, showers, an RV dump station, and seasonal paddleboard and pedal-boat rentals.
If you are planning a trip to Bottomless Lakes State Park, this guide covers what to see, where to swim, camping options, hiking trails, fees, current restrictions, safety information, and practical tips for making the most of your visit.
Where Is Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Bottomless Lakes State Park is in Chaves County in southeastern New Mexico, approximately 14 miles southeast of Roswell. The park address is 545 A Bottomless Lakes Road, Roswell, NM 88201.
Its relatively short distance from Roswell makes the park convenient for a day trip, but the campground facilities also make it possible to stay overnight.
The park sits at an elevation of approximately 3,617 feet and combines water, cliffs, wetlands, desert vegetation, and open landscapes.
Why Is Bottomless Lakes State Park Called “Bottomless”?
The lakes are not actually bottomless.
They are sinkholes, formed by geological processes that created deep depressions in the landscape. The eight lakes range from approximately 17 to 90 feet deep. The greenish-blue color of the water, combined with the steep sides of the sinkholes, makes them appear much deeper than ordinary lakes.
This unusual geology is the main reason the park has such a memorable name.
Rather than being a conventional lake system fed by a large river, Bottomless Lakes is a collection of water-filled sinkholes. That geological difference is what makes the landscape particularly interesting for visitors who enjoy nature, geology, photography, and unusual destinations.
How Many Lakes Are at Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Bottomless Lakes State Park contains a chain of eight lakes. The official park map identifies lakes and water bodies including:
- Lea Lake
- Lazy Lagoon
- Cottonwood Lake
- Mirror Lake
- Devil’s Inkwell
- Pasture Lake
- Figure Eight Lake
- Lost Lake
The park map also shows the locations of campgrounds, trails, picnic areas, fishing areas, swimming facilities, and other visitor amenities.
Not every lake serves the same recreational purpose. Lea Lake is the primary swimming and day-use destination, while fishing is specifically allowed at Devil’s Inkwell and Pasture Lake under applicable regulations.
Which Lake Is Best for Swimming?
Lea Lake is the main swimming destination at Bottomless Lakes State Park.
The Lea Lake Day-Use Area includes a designated beach, playground, picnic shelters, outdoor shower towers, restrooms, and other recreation facilities. The official park information identifies swimming as one of the park’s primary activities.
For visitors primarily interested in swimming, Lea Lake is therefore the obvious place to start.
However, conditions and seasonal facilities can change. Check current park information before your trip, particularly if swimming is the main reason for your visit.
Things to Do at Bottomless Lakes State Park
There are enough activities at Bottomless Lakes State Park to fill a full day or an entire weekend.
1. Swimming at Lea Lake
Swimming is one of the park’s most popular activities.
Lea Lake has a designated swimming area and beach, making it particularly attractive to families and visitors looking to cool off during warm weather. The day-use area also has picnic facilities, a playground, restrooms, and outdoor showers.
If you are visiting during summer, swimming can be an excellent way to combine recreation with sightseeing.
Always follow posted swimming rules and current park instructions. Avoid jumping or diving from cliffs or other unsafe locations.
2. Kayaking and Canoeing
Non-motorized boating is permitted at the park.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as:
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Paddleboarding
- Other approved human-powered boating
The park lists canoe, kayak, and board recreation among its activities. Seasonal paddleboard and pedal-boat rentals are also available from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
If you bring your own watercraft, check current New Mexico boating requirements before launching.
3. Scuba Diving
Bottomless Lakes is an unusual destination for scuba diving because of the depth and geological character of its sinkhole lakes.
The park officially lists scuba diving among its recreational activities.
Divers should check current park requirements and conditions before planning a dive. Water conditions, regulations, and access can affect whether a planned dive is practical.
4. Hiking
Bottomless Lakes State Park has approximately 4.53 miles of trails across several routes.
The main trails include:
| Trail | Approximate Length | Best For |
| Skidmarks Trail | 3.13 miles | Hiking and mountain biking |
| Bluff Trail | 0.86 mile | Easy nature walk and interpretation |
| Wetlands Trail | 0.54 mile | Wildlife and birdwatching |
The state park describes Skidmarks as a roughly three-mile mountain-biking trail that is also suitable for hiking. The Wetlands Trail includes a boardwalk and three wildlife-viewing blinds, while Bluff Trail is an easy nature trail with interpretive signs.
5. Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching
The wetlands and lakes create habitat for birds and other wildlife.
The park provides wildlife-viewing blinds, particularly around the Wetlands Trail, making this area a good choice for visitors interested in birdwatching and nature photography.
For the best wildlife-viewing experience, move quietly, avoid disturbing animals, and bring binoculars if you have them.
6. Fishing
Fishing is available, but not everywhere in the park.
Fishing is prohibited at:
- Lea Lake
- Lea Lake Day-Use Area
Fishing is permitted at:
- Devil’s Inkwell
- Pasture Lake
The state park notes that Pasture Lake is stocked between March and November, and all applicable New Mexico Department of Game and Fish rules apply.
This distinction is important because visitors should not assume that every lake in the park is open to fishing.
7. Picnicking
Bottomless Lakes State Park is well suited to a family picnic or relaxed outdoor afternoon.
The Lea Lake Day-Use Area includes 24 picnic shelters, a group shelter, playground, sand volleyball court, beach, restrooms, outdoor shower towers, and the historic Lea Lake Pavilion.
If you are traveling with children or a larger group, the developed day-use facilities make Lea Lake particularly convenient.
8. Camping
Camping is one of the best ways to turn a quick visit into a weekend trip.
The park has developed camping options at Lea Lake as well as additional developed campsites in the Lower Lakes area.
Lea Lake Campground includes:
- 32 campsites with hookups
- 6 full-hookup campsites
- 26 water/electric hookup sites
- Restrooms with showers
- RV dump station
- Group shelter
The Lower Lakes area has 10 developed campsites and vault toilets.
Also Check This Post:Green Lakes State Park Camping: Complete Guide to Campsites, Cabins, Reservations & Activities
Bottomless Lakes State Park Camping: Which Area Should You Choose?
Lea Lake Campground
Lea Lake is the better option if you want convenient access to the park’s primary recreation area.
It is particularly useful for visitors who want:
- Developed campsites
- RV hookups
- Showers
- An RV dump station
- Easy access to Lea Lake
- Nearby day-use facilities
The campground includes six full-hookup sites and 26 sites with water and electricity.
Lower Lakes Camping
The Lower Lakes area provides a smaller developed camping experience with 10 campsites and vault toilets.
It can appeal to visitors who want to stay around the other lakes rather than directly in the main Lea Lake recreation area.
First-Come, First-Served Camping
New Mexico State Parks currently lists D1 through D10 at Bottomless Lakes among its first-come, first-served sites. Availability can change, so visitors should check the current park and reservation information before relying on a first-come site.
Bottomless Lakes State Park Camping Fees
New Mexico’s current camping fee structure distinguishes between residents and non-residents.
Current listed rates include:
- Resident alternative camping: $10 per vehicle per night
- Non-resident alternative camping: $15 per vehicle per night
- Resident developed camping: $15 per vehicle per night
- Non-resident developed camping: $20 per vehicle per night
- Resident developed site with electric hookup: $20
- Non-resident developed site with electric hookup: $30
- Resident developed site with electric and sewage hookups: $25
- Non-resident developed site with electric and sewage hookups: $35
Additional hookup charges can apply depending on the site and permit situation.
Because fees can change, confirm the current rate when making your reservation.
Bottomless Lakes State Park Day-Use Fees
New Mexico State Parks introduced updated resident and non-resident fee structures beginning January 1, 2025.
The amount you pay can depend on residency, activity, and the type of facility you use. Visitors should check the current official fee information before traveling rather than relying on an older travel article.
Current Park Restrictions and Alerts
Checking park alerts before visiting is especially important at Bottomless Lakes State Park.
As of August 2026, the official park alert page lists Stage II fire restrictions. Under these restrictions, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove is prohibited. Certain liquid petroleum or LPG devices that can be turned on and off are permitted only when used in an area cleared of flammable materials within three feet of the device. Smoking is also prohibited except inside an enclosed vehicle or building.
The park also currently prohibits drones under New Mexico Administrative Code 19.5.2.9C.
The current alert page reports no posted closures, although visitors should still check the official alerts shortly before departure because conditions can change.
What Does the Fire Restriction Mean for Campers?
If you are camping, do not assume that a normal campfire is permitted.
Under the current Stage II restrictions, wood fires, charcoal fires, and campfires are prohibited. Approved liquid petroleum or LPG devices may be used only under the specified safety conditions.
This is one of the most important things to check before packing your camping equipment.
Best Time to Visit Bottomless Lakes State Park
The best time depends on the activities you want to enjoy.
Summer
Summer is the most attractive season for visitors focused on swimming and water recreation.
Seasonal paddleboard and pedal-boat rentals are offered from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
However, southeastern New Mexico can be hot, so bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, a hat, and appropriate clothing.
Spring
Spring can be a good time for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and fishing.
Pasture Lake is stocked between March and November, making this period relevant for anglers who want to fish in designated areas.
Fall
Fall can provide comfortable conditions for hiking, camping, sightseeing, and photography.
It can also be a good choice for visitors who prefer outdoor activities without the hottest summer conditions.
Winter
Winter can be quieter, but visitors should check current facility availability and park alerts before traveling. Some amenities are seasonal, and weather can affect outdoor plans.
How Much Time Do You Need at Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Your ideal visit length depends on what you want to do.
A few hours
A short visit is enough to:
- See Lea Lake
- Take photographs
- Walk a short trail
- Have a picnic
- Explore the main recreation area
One full day
A full day gives you time to combine several activities, such as:
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Wildlife viewing
- Picnicking
- Exploring the different lakes
One or two nights
Camping overnight makes sense if you want a slower experience, especially if you are combining swimming, hiking, fishing, photography, and other activities.
Is Bottomless Lakes State Park Good for Families?
Yes. The park has several features that make it suitable for family visits.
The Lea Lake Day-Use Area includes a beach, playground, picnic shelters, restrooms, outdoor showers, and other recreation facilities.
Families can combine a swim with a picnic, short nature walk, or wildlife-viewing activity.
Parents should still supervise children around the water and follow posted swimming and safety instructions.
Is Bottomless Lakes State Park Good for RVs?
Yes.
The Lea Lake Campground includes 32 campsites with hookups, including six full-hookup sites and 26 sites with water and electricity. An RV dump station is also available.
This makes the park more convenient for RV travelers than a destination offering only alternative camping.
However, RV visitors should check the current reservation information and site specifications before choosing a campsite.
Can You Bring a Dog to Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Pets are subject to New Mexico State Parks rules, and visitors are expected to keep pets properly secured. The state parks’ visitor guidance specifically reminds guests to ensure their pets are properly secured while enjoying park areas.
Before traveling with a dog, check the latest park-specific rules and restrictions, especially regarding beaches, swimming areas, buildings, and trails.
What Should You Bring to Bottomless Lakes State Park?
For a day trip, useful items include:
- Drinking water
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Snacks or picnic food
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Personal flotation equipment when appropriate
- Basic first-aid supplies
For camping, add your tent or RV equipment, sleeping gear, food, cooking equipment, lighting, and other camping necessities.
Because Stage II fire restrictions are currently in effect, do not pack your trip around a traditional wood or charcoal campfire. Check the current restrictions before using any cooking equipment.
Also Check This Post:Green Lakes State Park: Complete Guide to Trails, Lakes, Camping, Swimming, Golf, and Visiting
Bottomless Lakes State Park Hiking Guide
Hiking is an easy way to experience the park without spending the entire day in the water.
Bluff Trail
The Bluff Trail is approximately 0.86 mile and is described by New Mexico State Parks as an easy nature trail with interpretive signs.
It is a good choice for visitors looking for a relatively short walk and an introduction to the landscape.
Wetlands Trail
The Wetlands Trail is approximately 0.54 mile.
Its boardwalk and three wildlife-viewing blinds make it particularly appealing for birdwatchers and visitors interested in wetlands.
Skidmarks Trail
Skidmarks is approximately 3 miles and was built primarily for mountain biking, although the state park notes that it is also suitable for hiking.
It is the best option of the three if you want a longer outing.
Bottomless Lakes State Park Map and Layout
The official park map shows how the lakes and recreation areas are distributed throughout the park.
The map identifies:
- Lea Lake
- Lazy Lagoon
- Cottonwood Lake
- Mirror Lake
- Devil’s Inkwell
- Pasture Lake
- Figure Eight Lake
- Lost Lake
- Lea Lake Campground
- Lower Lakes camping areas
- Swimming area
- Hiking trails
- Fishing areas
- Picnic facilities
- Restrooms
- Showers
- RV dump station
- Visitor center
- Wildlife viewing areas
Studying the map before arrival can help you decide where to park, swim, hike, camp, or fish.
Photography at Bottomless Lakes State Park
Bottomless Lakes is a strong destination for landscape photography because of the contrast between the water and the surrounding New Mexico landscape.
Good subjects include:
- Blue-green lake water
- Sinkhole formations
- Cliffs and bluffs
- Wetlands
- Desert vegetation
- Wildlife
- Sunset and early-morning landscapes
If you plan to use a drone for aerial photography, remember that drones are currently prohibited at the park.
Instead, use permitted ground-based photography locations and respect wildlife and other visitors.
Nearby Attractions
Because Bottomless Lakes is close to Roswell, it is easy to include the park in a broader southeastern New Mexico road trip.
Visitors can combine their park trip with attractions and destinations in the Roswell area and continue toward other regional destinations such as Carlsbad and the surrounding attractions.
For travelers planning a longer itinerary, the park can work well as a nature-focused stop between other southeastern New Mexico destinations.
Bottomless Lakes State Park vs. a Typical Lake
What makes Bottomless Lakes different is its geology.
A typical lake may be formed by a river, glacier, dam, or natural depression. Bottomless Lakes is characterized by water-filled sinkholes.
The result is a landscape with:
- Deep enclosed water bodies
- Unusual lake shapes
- Steep formations
- Greenish-blue water
- Desert surroundings
- Multiple lakes in a relatively compact area
The state park describes the lakes as sinkholes ranging from 17 to 90 feet deep, with aquatic plants contributing to their distinctive greenish-blue appearance.
Tips for Visiting Bottomless Lakes State Park
Check park alerts before leaving
Restrictions and facility conditions can change. The current official alert page should be your final check before the trip.
Reserve camping early
If you want a particular developed or hookup campsite, check reservation availability in advance.
Bring enough water
Southeastern New Mexico can become hot, particularly during summer. Do not rely solely on finding drinking water after you arrive.
Follow fishing rules
Do not fish at Lea Lake. Use the designated fishing lakes and follow New Mexico Game and Fish regulations.
Follow water-safety rules
Use designated swimming areas and appropriate safety equipment. New Mexico State Parks emphasizes wearing life jackets and following water-safety guidance.
Plan around current fire restrictions
At present, Stage II restrictions prohibit traditional campfires and charcoal fires. Check the official restriction notice before your visit.
Do not bring a drone
Drones are currently prohibited at Bottomless Lakes State Park.
Give yourself enough time
If you only have an hour or two, focus on Lea Lake. For the complete experience, plan a full day or an overnight stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bottomless Lakes State Park
How deep are the Bottomless Lakes?
The sinkhole lakes range from approximately 17 to 90 feet deep.
Are Bottomless Lakes really bottomless?
No. The name refers to the lakes’ unusual appearance and depth. They are sinkholes and do have bottoms.
How many lakes are in Bottomless Lakes State Park?
The park is a chain of eight lakes.
Can you swim at Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Yes. Swimming is available at the designated Lea Lake recreation area.
Which lake is best for swimming?
Lea Lake is the primary swimming destination and has a designated beach and day-use facilities.
Can you fish at Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Yes, but fishing is restricted. It is prohibited at Lea Lake and the Lea Lake Day-Use Area and allowed at Devil’s Inkwell and Pasture Lake under applicable rules.
Can you kayak at Bottomless Lakes?
Yes. Non-motorized boating, including kayaking and canoeing, is permitted. Seasonal paddleboard and pedal-boat rentals are also available.
Can you scuba dive at Bottomless Lakes?
Yes. Scuba diving is listed as an activity at the park. Check current rules and conditions before diving.
Can you camp at Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Yes. The park offers developed camping at Lea Lake and additional developed campsites in the Lower Lakes area.
Is Bottomless Lakes State Park good for RV camping?
Yes. Lea Lake Campground has full-hookup and water/electric sites, plus an RV dump station.
Are there hiking trails at Bottomless Lakes State Park?
Yes. The park has approximately 4.53 miles of trails, including Bluff Trail, Wetlands Trail, and Skidmarks Trail.
Are drones allowed at Bottomless Lakes State Park?
No. The current park restriction prohibits drones.
Are campfires currently allowed?
As of August 2026, Stage II fire restrictions are in effect, which prohibit campfires, charcoal, coal, and wood stoves. Certain liquid petroleum or LPG devices are permitted only under specific conditions.
How far is Bottomless Lakes State Park from Roswell?
The park is approximately 14–15 miles southeast of Roswell.
Is Bottomless Lakes State Park worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy unusual geological formations, swimming, camping, hiking, kayaking, fishing, wildlife viewing, or photography. Its combination of eight sinkhole lakes and developed recreation facilities makes it one of the more distinctive state parks in New Mexico.
Final Thoughts
Bottomless Lakes State Park is a destination where unusual geology and outdoor recreation come together. The park’s eight sinkhole lakes, greenish-blue water, desert surroundings, and proximity to Roswell make it very different from a typical New Mexico lake destination.
For a quick visit, Lea Lake offers the easiest combination of swimming, picnicking, and family recreation. For a longer trip, you can add hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, fishing, scuba diving, and camping.
Before you go, check the latest park alerts, fees, camping availability, weather, and activity restrictions. In particular, current Stage II fire restrictions and the drone prohibition should be part of your planning in 2026.
With the right preparation, Bottomless Lakes State Park can be an excellent day trip from Roswell or a memorable overnight stop on a southeastern New Mexico adventure.
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Hello, I’m Oliver Whitmore, and I’ve spent years exploring Britain’s beautiful lakes as well as freshwater landscapes across Europe and beyond. I enjoy researching the history, geography, wildlife, and cultural significance of lakes, then turning that knowledge into practical, easy-to-understand articles.
I believe every lake tells a story, whether it’s shaped by ancient glaciers, surrounded by legends, or home to remarkable wildlife. Through my writing, I hope to help readers discover the beauty and importance of these natural wonders.
Books I’ve Written:
- Britain’s Hidden Lakes
- The Freshwater Explorer’s Handbook
Charlotte Pembroke
Henry Ashford