Andy and I arrived in Truth-or-Consequences, and stopped at the Wal-mart to resupply. It took me way longer because the store was laid out differently than I am accustomed. Afterward, I continued to follow him to the campground.
(Elephant Butte NM)
Elephant Butte Lake State Park has a campground just a couple of miles from the store. But, the sites at Lion Beach CG were close together, which was not to our liking. So, we went several more miles north along the lake.
Elephant Butte Lake
South Monticello Point CG sets on a mesa overlooking the lake with cliffs and mountains on the other side. The water was low, but it was still beautiful to me. The campground was more remote, so few venture that far. But, that meant plenty of choices were available. The sites were spaced well, and we both found spots that allowed our rigs panoramic windows to show a great view.
There were two more Lazy Daze full-timers camped there. So, I got to make new friends. Bill is serious about getting in shape and planning to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. That’s a challenging, high and long trail. Ken is a good photographer that shares his talent on his blog These are the Voyages.
One reason for being there was to gather together for Thanksgiving dinner at a local restaurant. Two LD couples, that stayed at the other campground, met us at the inn. We had all the trimmings and enjoyable conversation.
Evening at Elephant Butte
After a few days, December rolled in and a decision had to be made. Since entering New Mexico, I had been paying $14 per day for a site with electric and water. However, NM State Parks offers an annual camping pass that reduces the price by $10. I planned to spend a lot of time in the state, so I bought in. Now, what I paid for two days gets me a week; yes, 7 days with a shelter, picnic table, fire ring, electric and water for $28. And, should I choose a site without electric, it will be free. How cool is that?! I will recover the price of the pass in just 22 days of camping.
Sunset at South Monticello CG
I stayed another week enjoying the view, hiking, practicing with the acrylic paints and photographing sunsets. Then I pulled out looking to make some more changes.
Camps: Elephant Butte Lake SP-South Monticello Point CG
Scene: Lake, mountains, sunsets
Having lived in New Mexico for 5 years, this area certainly is one on the many beautiful areas of NM.
I have to agree that there are great views almost anywhere you go in New Mexico. I’m really enjoying my time here.
We always enjoyed staying at South Monticello. In fact that’s where we first met Andy almost 5 years ago. The NM parks pass is such a bargain. We can’t believe they haven’t raised the price in all these years.
South Monticello is a quiet location, which is what I prefer. The NM Annual Camping Pass is a bargain. I gladly support their park system.
The wonderful Apache Kid Wilderness is just a bit across the interstate from you. It has free camping in several spots. It is also fantastically beautiful. Tardis will easily get into the BLM and part of the National Forest up there.
Thanks for that info Barney. That’s the kind of place I’m looking to find. Likely wait until it warms up some though. Right now, I like the heat provided by the electric post.