Lake Alice Campground

For New Mexico locals seeking a tranquil yet adventurous escape into the state's captivating northern landscapes, Lake Alice Campground in Sugarite Canyon State Park offers an idyllic setting. Nestled amidst tall, thick forestry and serene waters, this campground near Raton, NM, provides a unique blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. It’s a cherished spot for those who appreciate the outdoors without sacrificing comfort, making it a perfect base for exploring the rich recreational opportunities of the region.

Lake Alice Campground is particularly celebrated for its picturesque environment and the friendly atmosphere fostered by its dedicated camp hosts. While the "lake" itself might be more of a pond at Lake Alice, the immediate access to Lake Maloya – a larger, vibrant lake known for its fishing – and the promise of incredible hiking to even more magnificent spots like Lake Dorothy (just across the Colorado border, but accessible from New Mexico) make it a true highlight. It's a place where the stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and the warmth of New Mexican hospitality combine to create an unforgettable outdoor experience for residents looking to reconnect with the natural world.

Lake Alice Campground is officially located at Raton, NM 87740, USA, within the beautiful Sugarite Canyon State Park. This prime location places it in the northeastern corner of New Mexico, very close to the Colorado border. The park itself sits between elevations of 6,600 and 8,200 feet, offering a refreshing change of scenery and climate from other parts of the state, especially during the warmer months.

Accessing Lake Alice Campground is straightforward. From I-25, take Exit 452 towards Raton, then travel east on State Highway 72 for about 4 miles until its intersection with State Highway 526. Travel north on Highway 526, which leads directly into Sugarite Canyon State Park. The campground is well-signed within the park. The roads within the park and leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, making it accessible for a variety of vehicles, including larger RVs and fifth wheels, as confirmed by a customer review.

While the park offers a wonderful escape, it's important for visitors to note that cell service is generally non-existent within Sugarite Canyon State Park. For connectivity, visitors may need to drive about a mile south of the park entrance or head into Raton, approximately six miles away. This lack of connectivity, however, is often seen as a benefit by those seeking a true digital detox and a deeper immersion in nature. The proximity to Raton means that essential supplies, groceries, and dining options are within a short drive, providing a convenient balance between wilderness and modern conveniences.

• P: Variety of Campsites: Lake Alice Campground offers a range of campsite types to accommodate various preferences. These include tent-only sites, sites with electric and water hookups (30 amp), and even a couple of full hookup campsites (30 amp), making it suitable for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts.
• P: Campsite Amenities: Each campsite is well-maintained and typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying traditional campfires (adhering to current fire restrictions).
• P: Basic Bathrooms: The campground provides basic bathroom facilities, specifically vault toilets (outhouses), which are regularly maintained.
• P: Hot Showers: A highly valued amenity, the campground offers free hot water showers, a welcome comfort after a day of hiking or fishing. These are typically located in bathhouses near the visitor center, about a mile from Lake Alice Campground.
• P: Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the campground, although visitors should be aware of any potential boil water advisories that may be in effect, as has occurred in the past.
• P: Dump Station: A "simple dump site" is conveniently located in the middle of the camp, providing a necessary service for RV users.
• P: Friendly Camp Host: The campground often has an on-site camp host known for their friendliness and willingness to assist campers, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
• P: ADA Accessible Sites: Some sites are designated as ADA accessible, requiring a handicapped placard or license plate.
• P: Bear-Proof Trash Receptacles: To ensure wildlife safety, bear-proof trash receptacles are provided, and campers are encouraged to store food inside their vehicles.

• P: Stunning Natural Beauty: The campground is set in a "beautiful area" with "tall, thick forestry and tranquil waters," offering picturesque views, particularly from sites like #4.
• P: Excellent Hiking Opportunities: As highlighted by reviewers, Lake Alice Campground is a "place if you love to hike." It offers direct access to numerous trails, including the easy 1.3-mile Lake Alice Trail and connections to the longer Deer Run Trail and Opportunity Trail.
• P: Fishing Paradise: While Lake Alice may be a pond, the adjacent Lake Maloya is a "nice place to fish," well-stocked with rainbow and brown trout. Anglers can also embark on a short, slightly uphill hike to Lake Dorothy in Colorado (accessible only via New Mexico), which offers "lots of trout and incredible scenery."
• P: Wildlife Viewing: The park is teeming with wildlife, birds, butterflies, and wildflowers, providing ample opportunities for nature observation and photography.
• P: Historical Exploration: Sugarite Canyon State Park has a rich coal mining history. Visitors can explore remnants of old mining operations via interpretive trails, adding a unique educational element to their visit.
• P: Water Activities: Electric motor boating, paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking are permitted on Lake Maloya, offering diverse ways to enjoy the water (swimming is generally not allowed).
• P: Dark Skies for Stargazing: Being away from city lights, Sugarite Canyon offers excellent conditions for observing the night sky and stargazing.
• P: Interpretive Programs: The park's visitor center often hosts seasonal interpretive programs and tours, such as "Coffee with a Ranger," "Fish Printing" for kids, and "Birds of Prey" presentations, enhancing the visitor experience.

Address: Raton, NM 87740, USA (within Sugarite Canyon State Park)

Phone: (575) 445-5607

Mobile Phone: +1 575-445-5607

Administered by: New Mexico State Parks.

Reservations: Campsites at Lake Alice Campground are reservable. You can make reservations up to six months in advance through the New Mexico State Parks reservation website, often found on www.reserveamerica.com. It is highly recommended to book ahead, especially for sites with hookups.

For the most current information regarding park alerts, fire restrictions (which can be strict in New Mexico), or any changes to water advisories, it is always best to check the New Mexico State Parks official website or contact Sugarite Canyon State Park directly using the provided phone numbers before your visit.

For New Mexico locals, Lake Alice Campground in Sugarite Canyon State Park is a premier destination that perfectly encapsulates the diverse beauty and recreational opportunities available right in their backyard. This campground truly shines for its combination of stunning high-desert and mountain scenery, coupled with well-maintained facilities that cater to a range of camping preferences, from tenters to large RVs. The availability of electricity and hot showers, while simple, provides a significant level of comfort that elevates the traditional camping experience.

What makes it particularly appealing to New Mexicans is the abundance of "things to do and see around here." The immediate access to a fantastic network of hiking trails, leading to magnificent waterfalls and diverse landscapes, directly caters to the active, outdoor-loving spirit prevalent in the state. Furthermore, the excellent fishing opportunities at Lake Maloya, and the adventurous short hike to the pristine Lake Dorothy (a unique cross-border experience), highlight the rich natural resources within easy reach.

The friendly camp host and the overall welcoming atmosphere contribute to a sense of community often sought by locals in their outdoor pursuits. Even the lack of cell service becomes a highlight for those seeking a true disconnect from daily distractions, allowing for genuine relaxation and immersion in nature. Lake Alice Campground offers an affordable, accessible, and incredibly rewarding escape, allowing New Mexicans to fully embrace the tranquility, beauty, and adventure that Northern New Mexico proudly offers. It's truly a place where memories are made and the spirit of the outdoors thrives.

Lake Alice Campground

Raton, NM 87740, USA