Now that summer’s in full swing, you’re probably ready to cool off. Although water parks are great for families and a ton of fun, perhaps you want a less crowded experience. If so, head to one of these places to swim in NM for a dip.

1. Rio Grande at John Dunn Bridge (near Taos)
John Dunn Bridge, New Mexico 87529, USA
Flickr/ J. N. Stuart
Not only can you reach the primitive Black Rock Hot Springs from the John Dunn Bridge area, but this is also a favorite place with locals looking to splash around in the river. While you might have company here, it’s rarely overrun with people. This spot is technically in Arroyo Hondo. Learn more about the Rio Grande at John Dunn Bridge in our previous article.
2. Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces (Las Cruces)
Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces, 705 S Telshor Blvd, Las Cruces, NM 88011, USA
Facebook/Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces
Plenty of New Mexico hotels offer pools, but the outdoor one at Hotel Encanto is particularly alluring. If you want a lesser-known resort experience then this pool, with its gorgeous setting, won’t disappoint. While you do have to stay at the hotel to enjoy its amenities, New Mexican residents receive 20% off the best current room rate. The hotel is located at 705 S Telshor Boulevard in Las Cruces. Learn more about the Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces on their website.
3. Bluewater Lake State Park (near Grants)
Bluewater Lake State Park Road, Bluewater Lake State Pk Rd, New Mexico 87045, USA
Tripadvisor/NMmama
This state park isn’t as well known as Elephant Butte or Navajo but it’s only a little south of I-40 making it a more convenient destination than you might expect. The stark beauty of this place, combined with the decided absence of crowds, makes this an appealing place to swim. It is located at 30 Bluewater State Park Road in Prewitt. Learn more about Bluewater Lake State Park in our previous article.

Related Stories

Most People Have No Idea These Underwater Cities In New Mexico Even Exist

Most People Have No Idea These Underwater Cities In New Mexico Even Exist

 The Clearest River In New Mexico, The Gila, Is Almost Too Beautiful To Be Real

The Clearest River In New Mexico, The Gila, Is Almost Too Beautiful To Be Real

 This State Park In New Mexico Is So Little Known, You'll Practically Have It All To Yourself

This State Park In New Mexico Is So Little Known, You'll Practically Have It All To Yourself
4. Raton Regional Aquatic Center (Raton)
Raton Regional Aquatic Center, 100 Memorial Ln, Raton, NM 87740, USA
Facebook/Raton Regional Aquatic Center
Since it’s not a major water park, the Raton Regional Aquatic Center tends to fly under the radar. However, this indoor pool offers a great waterslide, floating basketball hoops, and an aqua climbing wall. This is an affordable swimming spot that has obvious appeal for families, but it offers adult-only swimming times as well. The aquatic center is located at 100 Memorial Lane in Raton. Learn more about Raton Regional Aquatic Center on their Facebook page.
5. Rio Grande in Leasburg Dam State Park (Radium Springs)
Leasburg Dam State Park, 12712 State Park Rd, Radium Springs, NM 88054, USA
Tripadvisor/Deanne A
One of New Mexico’s hidden gems, this state park is a peaceful haven and swimming is permitted from the North Day Use Area. Have you splashed around in the Rio Grande, yet? The park is located at 12712 State Park Road in Radium Springs. Learn more about Rio Grande in Leasburg Dam State Park in our previous article.
6. Nambe Falls Recreation Area (Nambe Pueblo)
Nambe Falls, New Mexico 87506, USA
TripAdvisor management
Nambe Falls tumbles into an – admittedly chilly – pool. While you won’t be doing laps here, it’s still a beautiful and refreshing place to cool off. The waterfall is on tribal land and there is an admission fee. Learn more about Nambe Falls Recreation Area in our previous article.
7. Pecos River (near Pecos)
Flickr/Chris Engligh - U.S. Department of the Interior
You may already be aware that you can swim in the Pecos River in Carlsbad. But did you know that you can also cool off in the part of the river that runs through the Santa Fe National Forest? The water is generally shallow, but there are a few spots off NM-63 where it’s deep enough to actually swim. The setting is stunning and the water perfectly clear. Just drive from Pecos along NM-63 until you find a riverside pull off or parking lot that appeals to you. Learn more about Pecos River in our previous article.

What are some of your favorite NM swimming holes? Tell us about your favorite places to spend summer in NM on our nomination page, and you just might see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article.

Remember to be mindful after heavy rainfall and to remain aware of flash flood warnings before swimming in New Mexico’s rivers – safety first!

These are far from our state’s only places to take a dip. Here are some more swimming lakes in NM. 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Places to Swim in NM

Katie Lawrence | June 16, 2022

What are some of the best NM swimming holes?

When it comes to the best NM swimming holes, it's hard to beat Sitting Bull Falls. Tucked away in the Lincoln National Forest, this pristine oasis boasts not just one, but several natural pools where you can cool off on a hot summer day. One of them is even under the waterfall itself, and it's a truly picture-perfect sight. If you find yourself in the Carlsbad area in the summer, don't miss it.

Where are the best swimming lakes in NM?

Looking for swimming lakes in NM? One of our favorites is Caballo Lake in Sierra County. This mountainside is a haven for all sorts of watersports, including swimming, water skiing, windsurfing, and boating. On land, you can also go birdwatching and camp at nearby Caballo Lake State Park. It's a nature lover's dream!

What is there to do during summer in NM?

There are no shortage of activities to make every summer in NM your best one yet. We love visiting waterparks, as they allow you to beat the heat while having a great time. One of our favorite New Mexico waterparks is Cliff's Amusement Park in Albuquerque. This seasonal park boasts all sorts of attractions for all ages, from thrilling waterslides to toddler-friendly splash pads.

Related Articles

Explore New Mexico