New Mexico has some of the best state parks in the country, IMO, and back in January of 2017 when we still had the truck camper we purchased a year pass but unfortunately never got to use it. So when we got back on the road again in our Avion we decided we had better get our moneys worth out of it before it expired (01/31/18)!
New Mexico state park passes cost $225 a year for out of state residents and $180 a year if you’re a New Mexico resident. Now that might seem like a lot but when you are camping and are in a non-electric site the cost is free! If you choose a power and water site the cost is $4 a day and a full hookup site (where available) is $8! Not a bad deal, IMO. Also dump sites are available at most parks.
Our first state park of this tour was Heron Lake State Park in Los Ojos, NM. Situated just 20 minutes from Chama, NM and fed by the Rio Chama. This state park and lake offers many camping opportunities but if you’re looking for something with power and water there are only two options: Blanco and Willow Creek.
There are many hiking trails in the camping areas that lead down to and go around the lake. All are easy paths to hike and offer beautiful views!
Verizon cell service offers 1 bar of LTE but it can go in and out without a booster. TMobile was nonexistent.
All in all, Blanco and Willow Creek offer nice pull through and back in sites that are fairly large and private, good amenities and lots of outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. We will definitely be back!
