Welcome to New Mexico’s Waterways and State Parks

Thank you for your interest in boating laws and park regulations! The New Mexico State Parks Division is pleased to provide you with The Handbook. This handbook contains both New Mexico boating laws and state park regulations. Always make sure you have a current edition, and check with the New Mexico State Parks Division or the specific park you are interested in for any other specific information.

State parks and other locations provide outstanding recreational boating opportunities throughout New Mexico. From Elephant Butte Lake’s sandy beaches to Navajo Lake’s pine mountain shores, the beautiful terrain and waters of the “Land of Enchantment” beckon—offering exciting and memorable experiences for you, your family, and your friends.

Whether you own a boat, camp with friends, or just love spending time within New Mexico’s waterways and state parks, The Handbook will help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating and park experience. This handbook is designed for use as a field guide to prepare and use for a trip on the water or a visit to a state park. Marine enforcement officers and park rangers at New Mexico State Parks and in our Santa Fe headquarters are available to answer any questions that you may have. State Parks staff is also available to teach boating safety classes and make group presentations in your community.

This handbook, and any other state park information you might have, however, is just a first step. You should become familiar with your state parks, share what you know with others, and periodically refresh your knowledge. If you wish to improve your skills on the water, groups such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offer additional courses. For more information on boating safety and park regulations, or to check boating conditions at state parks, contact New Mexico State Parks or visit our website.

The goal of the State Parks Division, which administers boating laws in New Mexico, is zero boating-related injuries and fatalities each year. Unfortunately, the tragedy that often surrounds boating accidents points to the need for better educated boat operators. In fact, in the majority of states in the U.S., including New Mexico, some form of boating safety education is now mandatory in order to be an operator.

Thanks again for making a personal commitment to improve your boating safety skills and enjoy your state parks. And remember: Boat Smart and Safe in New Mexico!

Sincerely,
David J. Simon
Director, New Mexico State Parks