Heron Lake State Park

Things to do near Heron Lake State Park

Heron Lake State Park offers a variety of scenic hiking trails that wind through stunning landscapes, perfect for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. The trails provide opportunities to explore the area's natural beauty, including lush forests and breathtaking views of the lake. Whether you seek a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, you'll find paths that cater to all skill levels, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Shopping

Heron Lake State Park offers a quaint shopping experience with local artisan shops nearby for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the Chama Valley Shopping Center, about 9.3km away, for more variety, including local crafts and gifts.

Recreation

Explore El Vado Lake State Park, a mere 4.3km from Heron Lake State Park, where you can enjoy serene landscapes and wellness vibes. Engage in activities such as kayaking, fishing, or simply unwinding by the water, embracing the tranquil surroundings for a rejuvenating experience.

Adventure

Heron Lake State Park offers thrilling water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, alongside picturesque hiking trails that wind through stunning landscapes. Explore the serene lake shores, perfect for fishing, or embark on a mountain biking adventure amidst the captivating natural beauty of New Mexico.

Nightlife

Enjoy a serene evening by Heron Lake, where you can stargaze and unwind by the campfire. For a lively atmosphere, visit the nearby local tavern for a pint of craft beer and engage with friendly locals sharing stories of the area.

Find the best attractions near Heron Lake State Park

Heron Lake State Park in Rutheron, New Mexico, offers a variety of outdoor activities, perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking stunning scenery, beach experiences, and tranquil lakeside relaxation. Visitors can explore the picturesque lake, nearby parks, and the charming islands that dot the area. Whether you’re looking to fish, hike, or simply soak in the beauty of the landscape, Heron Lake State Park promises an enjoyable escape into nature.

• Hayden Lake: Located 6.8km from Heron Lake State Park, Hayden Lake offers a picturesque setting perfect for romantic strolls along the beach. The stunning scenery invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in the outdoor vibes, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
• Rio Chama: Situated 9.3km away, the Rio Chama is a breathtaking river renowned for its scenic beauty. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this area is ideal for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the tranquillity of nature while surrounded by striking landscapes.
• Horse Island: Just 7.5km from the park, Horse Island boasts inviting beach vibes. This serene island is perfect for outdoor activities, picnics, and soaking up the sun, allowing visitors to connect with nature in a tranquil setting.

Best time to go to Heron Lake State Park

The best time to visit Heron Lake State Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Heron Lake State Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Heron Lake State Park falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	17.4°F (-8.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
February	20.3°F (-6.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
March	28.2°F (-2.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
April	37.2°F (2.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	47.3°F (8.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	59.5°F (15.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Slightly High
October	41.9°F (5.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
November	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	19.0°F (-7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Heron Lake State Park

To save money on your visit to Heron Lake State Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a hotel about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can lead to significant savings. Aim to stay on a Wednesday, the cheapest day, and use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and preferences. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into one package may also help you secure better deals and earn rewards.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Heron Lake State Park are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to September and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Heron Lake State Park is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Heron Lake State Park is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Heron Lake State Park is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation at Heron Lake State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.