Caballo Lake State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Caballo Lake State Park |
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Location | Sierra, New Mexico, United States |
Area | 5,384 acres (21.79 km2) |
Elevation | 4,100 ft (1,200 m) |
Established | 1964 |
Governing body | New Mexico State Parks Division |
Caballo Lake State Park is an amazing state park in New Mexico, United States. It's located about 16 miles (26 km) south of a town called Truth or Consequences. This park is right on the famous Rio Grande river.
The main attraction here is Caballo Lake. It's a huge lake that was created a long time ago.
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Discover Caballo Lake State Park
Caballo Lake State Park is a fantastic place for outdoor adventures. It offers beautiful views and lots of activities. The park was officially opened in 1964. It's managed by the New Mexico State Parks Division.
How Caballo Lake Was Made
Caballo Lake wasn't always here! It was created in the 1930s. Workers built a giant earthen dam across the Rio Grande river. This dam holds back the river's water, forming the large lake we see today.
The dam itself is quite impressive. It stands 96 feet (29 m) tall. It stretches 4,558 feet (1,389 m) across the river. That's like walking across more than 15 football fields!
Exploring the Lake's Size
The size of Caballo Lake can change throughout the year. This depends on how much water flows into it. When the lake is completely full, it's enormous! It covers over 11,500 acres (47 km2) of land. That's bigger than 8,700 football fields!
The lake can also be as long as 18 miles (29 km). This makes Caballo Lake the third largest lake in all of New Mexico. It's a truly massive body of water.
Fun Things to Do at Caballo Lake
One of the most popular activities at Caballo Lake is fishing. Many people come here to catch different kinds of fish. The most common types of fish caught are bass and walleye. It's a great spot for a fishing trip with family or friends.
Besides fishing, the park offers other fun things. You can enjoy boating, swimming, and camping. It's a perfect place to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature.