Sims Mesa Campground

Definitely use US64 out of Bloomfield and NM527 into Simms Mesa camping - all paved access (and do avoid the 7 miles of rough "Dam Shortcut" service road for sure).

Upper loop was closed for the season and not available in Mid Oct. We were in Main Loop Site M1 as it was the only available site (a cancellation), and it was snug even for my 8' pickup camper. Levelling was needed for our site, but not difficult; I didn't see anywhere you would want to pitch a tent within site M1. Site M2 is extremely close (M2's campfire ring is basically behind M1's back door), great for your friends, but not really for our objectives - luckily the folks next door had a larger group and instead gathered at a site further down. Overall the campsites were good shape - covered picnic table on a slab (some do have electric for addl fee), There were a few "choice" sites on the return side of the main loop to be observed, but already booked. Overall paved road access was excellent, restrooms very clean and even boasts a shower in each of the men's and women's restrooms. We had ample Verizon service being next to the lake. Very friendly NM Park Ranger visited with us - checking the online site that she had freed up earlier (for an early departure that we snagged). Lake is very accessible from the main loop. I'd book again for a less crowded site I would prefer, but you can't beat the NM SP site pricing whatsoever!

Showers are included in the price and there is hot water. Dump station, clean drinking water through out the park and at the dump station. Views of the dam and lake are beautiful. Nice spacious sites. Electric available at most sites. We run on 30amps. ONLY downside to this park is it’s proximity to anything. Groceries, gas, etc. Come stocked and prepared.