7 Little Known Swimming Spots In New Mexico That Will Make Your Summer Awesome

Now that summer's in full swing, you're probably ready to cool off. Although water parks are great for families and a ton of fun, perhaps you want a less crowded experience. If so, head to one of these places to swim in NM for a dip.

1. Rio Grande at John Dunn Bridge (near Taos)

Not only can you reach the primitive Black Rock Hot Springs from the John Dunn Bridge area, but this is also a favorite place with locals looking to splash around in the river. While you might have company here, it’s rarely overrun with people. This spot is technically in Arroyo Hondo. Learn more about the Rio Grande at John Dunn Bridge in our previous article.

2. Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces (Las Cruces)

Plenty of New Mexico hotels offer pools, but the outdoor one at Hotel Encanto is particularly alluring. If you want a lesser-known resort experience then this pool, with its gorgeous setting, won’t disappoint. While you do have to stay at the hotel to enjoy its amenities, New Mexican residents receive 20% off the best current room rate. The hotel is located at 705 S Telshor Boulevard in Las Cruces. Learn more about the Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces on their website.

3. Bluewater Lake State Park (near Grants)

This state park isn’t as well known as Elephant Butte or Navajo but it’s only a little south of I-40 making it a more convenient destination than you might expect. The stark beauty of this place, combined with the decided absence of crowds, makes this an appealing place to swim. It is located at 30 Bluewater State Park Road in Prewitt. Learn more about Bluewater Lake State Park in our previous article.

4. Raton Regional Aquatic Center (Raton)

Since it’s not a major water park, the Raton Regional Aquatic Center tends to fly under the radar. However, this indoor pool offers a great waterslide, floating basketball hoops, and an aqua climbing wall. This is an affordable swimming spot that has obvious appeal for families, but it offers adult-only swimming times as well. The aquatic center is located at 100 Memorial Lane in Raton. Learn more about Raton Regional Aquatic Center on their Facebook page.

5. Rio Grande in Leasburg Dam State Park (Radium Springs)

One of New Mexico’s hidden gems, this state park is a peaceful haven and swimming is permitted from the North Day Use Area. Have you splashed around in the Rio Grande, yet? The park is located at 12712 State Park Road in Radium Springs. Learn more about Rio Grande in Leasburg Dam State Park in our previous article.

6. Nambe Falls Recreation Area (Nambe Pueblo)

Nambe Falls tumbles into an – admittedly chilly – pool. While you won’t be doing laps here, it’s still a beautiful and refreshing place to cool off. The waterfall is on tribal land and there is an admission fee. Learn more about Nambe Falls Recreation Area in our previous article.

7. Pecos River (near Pecos)

You may already be aware that you can swim in the Pecos River in Carlsbad. But did you know that you can also cool off in the part of the river that runs through the Santa Fe National Forest? The water is generally shallow, but there are a few spots off NM-63 where it’s deep enough to actually swim. The setting is stunning and the water perfectly clear. Just drive from Pecos along NM-63 until you find a riverside pull off or parking lot that appeals to you. Learn more about Pecos River in our previous article.

What are some of your favorite NM swimming holes? Tell us about your favorite places to spend summer in NM on our nomination page, and you just might see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article.

Remember to be mindful after heavy rainfall and to remain aware of flash flood warnings before swimming in New Mexico's rivers - safety first!

These are far from our state's only places to take a dip. Here are some more swimming lakes in NM.