Cochiti Recreation Area

Cochiti Recreation Area is located in Sandoval County, New Mexico, within the boundaries of the Pueblo de Cochiti Indian Reservation.

The lake offers two public recreation areas: Cochiti on the west side of the lake and Tetilla Peak on the east side. Both sides offer spectacular scenic views of the water and surrounding mountains.

The Cochiti Dam is one of the ten largest earth-fill dams in the United States, and also one of the largest in the world. The lake derives its name from the Indian Pueblo on the Cochiti Reservation.
Natural Features:
Cochiti Lake is in a high desert environment, and the dominant vegetation is desert scrubland.

There are many opportunities for wildlife viewing. Four osprey nesting platforms have been erected around the lake to provide nesting sites, as well as viewing opportunities. On the east side of the lake, deer, coyote and rabbit are often sighted.
Recreation:
Wind surfing is a favorite pastime for visitors. The lake is also a popular fishing spot for species such as bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, sunfish and trout.

Cochiti Recreation Area has a swim beach and playground for the convenience of families with children.
Facilities:
The campground consists of four loops. Juniper Loop campsites have electric hookups and some have water. Elk Run and Ringtail Loops are non-electric and have community water spigots. All sites in Buffalo Grove Loop have water and electric hookups.

The Cochiti Recreation Area and boat ramp are open year-round and are accessed by a paved road. The ramp has four concrete lanes for loading and unloading.
Nearby Attractions:
Cochiti Lake is five miles from Tent Rocks National Monument, which has fascinating geological formations.
Activities and Amenities
Within Facility
Accessible Boat Ramp
Accessible Flush Toilets
Beach Access
Boating
Drinking Water
Dump Station
Electric Hookups
Fishing
Hiking
Interpretive Trails
Pay Phone
Pit Toilets
Playground
Showers
Swimming
Visitor Center
Know Before You Go
Juniper Loop guests must bring a 100 foot hose; spigots are shared between sites
The campground does not meet accessibility standards
This is a no-wake lake
Check-in is between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
All camping units or vehicles must be registered
A campground attendant is on duty
No cutting of trees, dead or alive, is allowed
Ground fires are not permitted
Off-road vehicles are not permitted
Don’t Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.