Morphy Lake State Park

How does the idea of serene lakeside camping at 8,000 feet sound, where the quiet is broken only by the rustle of mountain breezes and the splash of a hooked trout? Morphy Lake State Park Campground is a sanctuary of peace and natural beauty, located at the edge of the Pecos Wilderness in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This compact, 15-acre mountain lake offers campers a pristine escape, blending rugged simplicity with breathtaking views.

The campground features 26 developed sites situated along the northern and eastern shoreline, all first-come, first-served. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, catering to both tent campers and RVs up to 18 feet. Amenities are basic, with vault toilets and no water, electric hookups, or dump stations, underscoring the park's rustic charm. The lake itself is a prime spot for anglers, teeming with rainbow trout and kokanee salmon, while canoeing and kayaking provide tranquil pleasures due to the ban on motorized boats. Hiking trails skirt the scenic shoreline, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography year-round.

Located seven miles southwest of Mora, New Mexico, the park is accessed via a narrow, winding dirt road that keeps it secluded and unspoiled. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can explore the historical charm of Mora or venture north to Coyote Creek State Park for extended amenities. With its high-altitude coolness, vibrant fall colors, and snow-draped winterscapes, Morphy Lake State Park is ideal for weekend retreats and relaxed vacations where nature takes center stage.