One of the Most Beautiful Lakes in New Mexico Is Surprisingly Overlooked

With its expansive water views, sandy beaches, marinas, and tons of water recreation, Elephant Butte Lake in New Mexico is ideal for a resort-style vacation. However, some locals prefer a lesser-known spot to simply fish, camp, and have a relaxing day by the water. That’s where Lake Roberts near Silver City comes in. The hidden lake in New Mexico is perched at 6,000 feet in the Gila National Forest, surrounded by gentle rolling hills covered with pine woodlands. The water? Calm, blue-green, and reflects the surrounding hills, stretched across just 70 acres. Beautiful in its own way, this compact lake in New Mexico feels intimate, like it’s miles from the developed world, and offers a peaceful place to escape in nature.  

Why Most People Have Never Heard of This Lake

If you visit the Travel New Mexico website, you’ll find the most popular and scenic lakes listed, including Elephant Butte, Navajo, and Abiquiu lakes, just to name a few. And rightfully so—these lakes attract thousands of locals and visitors ready for high-energy fun by the water. As for Lake Roberts, expect a tiny alpine lake absent of double-decker pontoon boats and sandy shorelines. Instead, it’s a quiet recreational spot to paddle, boat, fish, camp, or hike along the scenic trails. Plus, the underrated New Mexico lake is in a remote section of the forest about a 40-mile drive along a winding mountain backroad. That’s not a bad thing, though. Its location is part of its appeal—only attracting visitors looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to unwind.  

What You Can Do at This Lake

Even though swimming is not allowed at Lake Roberts, there is plenty to do to fill your day. Since the lake is designated as Trophy Bass Water by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, fishing is the main draw. Bring your fishing license and equipment for a chance to catch largemouth bass that might be bigger than average: 14 inches or more. The fish cleaning station allows you to prepare your catch for dinner later that day. 

If fishing is not your thing, no worries! Launch your kayak, canoe, or small electric motor boat for a quiet day of drifting and paddling. You’ll hear birds cawing and the sounds of your paddle lapping, but there will be no loud recreational boats or jet skis here. Keep your eyes open for bald eagles, osprey, and herons, and you'll see plenty of waterfowl swimming on the lake.

When you need a break, head to the picnic area to eat a snack and then, after you’re done, stretch your legs along the hiking trails. The Lake Roberts North and South Trails are under two miles long, and both trails are pet- and kid-friendly. The north trail is a flat, easy route, while the south trail is a bit more adventurous, with a dam crossing and steep rocky sections. Both trails offer views of the lake from different angles, so have your camera ready to snap pics of the alpine lake scenery. 

Sure, you can spend only a day at the scenic New Mexico lake, but if you don’t want to rush, consider staying at the nearby campground. That way, you can cook your fish, build a campfire, stargaze, and wake up the next day to explore more of the forest. You can connect to other trails and spot coyotes, deer, foxes, and bears if you get lucky. 

What To Know Before You Go

Keep in mind that this is a small mountain lake, so for a better experience, a little bit of planning is suggested. Bring everything you need to spend the night, but in case you want minor supplies, there is a general store and a small inn nearby. The lake and recreational area are free to use; however, the surrounding Gila Forest campgrounds range from $15 to $25 depending on the site you choose. Since you are in the remote wilderness, cell service might be sketchy, but that might be exactly what you need to fully connect with the peacefulness and beauty of Lake Roberts.

While you’re in the area, consider visiting Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, one of the most unique places in New Mexico, to see the cliffside homes built by the Mogollon people. It’s only 25 miles from the lake. Learn more about the nearby hiking trails, hot springs, and activities on the National Forest Service website.