Fenton Lake and Bluewater Lake State Parks to Reopen Friday, September 11th

By EMNRD

Fenton Lake and Bluewater Lake State Parks will reopen on Friday, September 11^th for day-use recreation. Fenton Lake and Bluewater Lake State Parks had remained closed out of an abundance of caution for the local communities and due to the fact these areas were experiencing high rates of COVID-19. Thanks to progress made in combating COVID-19, the State Parks Division is excited to welcome visitors back to these Parks now that it is safe to do so. Both Parks will be open Friday – Monday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

State Parks provides the additional guidance is still in place:

Limitations on Visitors:

• Only New Mexico residents may enter New Mexico State Parks.
• Visitors must show either a valid New Mexico license plate, a New Mexico driver’s license or ID card, a New Mexico vehicle registration, a federal document attesting to residency, or a military ID to be admitted to a State Park.

Hours of Operation:

• Beginning September 11^th, a total of 33 State Parks will be open for day-use only. Please “know before you go” and check our website for current hours, as many State Parks are currently operating under reduced hours and days of operation.
• Overnight camping remains closed.

Additional guidance:

• Wearing a mask or cloth face covering is mandatory in public settings except when eating, drinking, or swimming or unless a healthcare provider instructs otherwise, and violators could face citations and $100 fines for not complying voluntarily.
• Keep groups to 10 people or less
• Bring hand sanitizer and additional personal protective equipment
• Maintain social distance of 6 feet or more while recreating
• Parks are open for day-use only
• Visitor centers and shower facilities remain closed
• No campfires or open fires
• Water access and trails will be open, but access may be limited to adhere to social distancing requirements

• No group shelter use or large organized events, in accordance with continued restrictions on mass gatherings
• Playgrounds closed
• To limit interactions, please use exact change when paying fees
• Limited concession operations
• Recreate responsibly and pack out all trash
• Follow all safety guidelines when boating or swimming