Few things come close to an adventure such as camping at a serene lakeside. Spending a lazy weekend under the stars besides a calm lake, getting your hands dirty fishing and coming home with a treasure of memories sounds like the trip of dreams.
If you have been itching to take your next outdoor trip close to nature, away from the chaotic city life, we have scouted the most scenic getaway locale for you lined with exciting activities. The blend of tranquility and adventure at this place makes a winning recipe for hiking, biking, fishing or even just chilling. Intrigued to know more? Read on to unravel what your next camping trip would look like!
Bonito Lake Ruidoso NM – What You Need To Know?
Nestled in the heights of Sierra Blanca mountains, Bonito lake makes an ideal setting for camping and fishing activities. The lake is owned by the City of Alamogordo and serves as a primary source of potable water supply to the city. Geographically, Bonito lake is set on the northwest of Ruidoso in New Mexico. Ruidoso is a beautiful village popular for a lot of picnicking and recreational spots.
The famous Lincoln National Forest is next to the village and surrounds Bonito lake creating the most scenic view possible for campers. The diverse terrain of the forest offers a range of biking and hiking trails. The lush Lincoln forests are also home to gorgeously cascading waterfalls which can easily serve as a picturesque backdrop for your next photoshoot. Not to forget, the huge pine trees that line at the outskirts of the lake smell fresh and woody.
The lake hosts several camping grounds where you can pitch your own tents and revel in the peaceful setting with your family. On a cold evening, you can enjoy a fresh catch of Rainbow Trouts that are abundantly present in the lake.
Bonito Lake Camping
Be it a crazy adventure or a peaceful getaway, camping is the new “it” as staying at resorts and hotels is a thing of the past now. Untouched by the ways of modern man, camping at Bonito lake is a tranquil experience like no other. This exotic campsite is sprawled across Bonito lake and the camping ground is so placed that it is surrounded by lush trees and mountains.
After a rocky drive through the Lincoln forests, you can set up your camp, grab a hot meal and begin your adventure. The best time to camp here is between May to September. You can trek in the nearby trails where cedar, spruces and pine trees dot the dense landscape. You would also spot wildlife and birds in the vicinity. You can set up base here and head off to pursue other local activities like hiking, trekking, biking, or fishing in the beautiful Ruidoso village.
Being a hilly region, camping at lake Bonito is a relaxed, laid-back activity. It throws you right in the lap of nature and keeps you cushioned between the shimmering lake and towering trees.
Is Bonito Lake Open For Fishing?
Bonito lake is open for fishing during the period between April 1st to November 30th. The timing for fishing starts from 5am to 10pm daily. The New Mexico Game & Fish Division restock the lake with fishes at regular intervals. Boats, watercrafts or any other kind of swimming activity is not allowed inside the lake thus keeping the lake exclusive for fishing. Fishing can be only carried out standing at the shore.
Bonito Lake Cabins
In case you are in search of a homely location to spend your vacation in Ruidoso, rental cabins are there for you. From cozy nest rooms, mountain escapes to skyfall cabins, we bring you breathtaking places to stay near lake Bonito.
Location – This mountainside cabin is perhaps situated in the best location of Ruidoso. It is a private cabin decorated with rustic furniture and overlooks the gorgeous Sierra Blanca view.
Cost – $221/ average per night
Distance to Bonito lake – 6.5 miles
Location – Located right next to the Lincoln forest, this private cabin spells out the ideal Ruidoso vacation. It is housed in a secluded area and boasts of stunning mountain and valley views all around.
Cost – $206/ average per night
Distance to Bonito lake – 6.1 miles
Location – Overlooking the Sierra Blanca terrains, this cabin is quite spacious yet maintains a cozy feel. The spectacular scenery outside can be easily viewed from the indoor ceiling windows.
Cost – $212/ average per night
Distance to Bonito lake – 6.4 miles
Location – This lovely villa enjoys a secluded space away from the hustle bustle of city life. It is located quite close to the Bonito lake and is a great place to relax, play and escape the scorching summers.
Cost – $144/ average per night
Distance to Bonito lake – 4.1 miles
Location – If you are looking for an ideal spot to use as a home base while you carry out local activities in Ruidoso, your search ends here. Wine N Pines is a beautiful log home set in a peaceful location with plenty of amenities.
Cost – $193/ average per night
Distance to Bonito lake – 4.6 miles
Bonito Lake Directions
Bonito lake is a 2 hours drive from New Mexico and 1 hour drive from the city of Alamogordo. Flight and other transit options aren’t available to reach Bonito lake from either of these places. The twisty drive towards the lake leads through gorgeous scenery of the Lincoln Forest and stunning mountain streams.