Brantley Lake State Park

Brantley Lake State Park is situated in the Pecos River Valley near Carlsbad, New Mexico. The rolling grasslands of Southeastern New Mexico are to the east of the park and the Guadalupe Mountains are to the west. The lake takes its name from the reservoir built across the Pecos River in the 1980s by the U.S. Bureau of reclamation. Brantley Dam replaced the earlier McMillan Dam. Primary functions of the lake are flood control and water storage for irrigation and water commitments to Texas and Mexico. The park opened in November 1989.

The lake is best known for its water recreation and fishing. The Lake is stocked with largemouth bass, white bass, walleye, channel catfish, trout, sunfish, bluegill, and crappie. The southernmost lake in New Mexico is an oasis of water, wildlife, plant life, gorgeous sunsets and stunning night skies. The Pecos River valley is a major waterfowl migration route, and many species of birds are present on and near the lake throughout the year. Located twelve miles north of Carlsbad, the park offers boating, kayaking, canoing, fishing, hiking trails, exceptional bird watching, developed and primitive campsites and restrooms with showers. Whether you’re picnicking for the day, or camping in your RV for a week, you’ll be sure to find adventure at Brantley Lake State Park!

Park Elevation is 3,295 ft.
Make a reservation on the New Mexico State Parks reservation website.