Cochiti Lake - COE/Cochiti Area

matt fisher

Helpful staff and a cool office. They do a good job with this place. Nashroo trail is by the office entrance. You can go 5 miles across the dam or down or down a gravel trail that leads to others around the lake and overlook.

Local Dude (Astro)

Two or three years ago, this was LESS than a 5-star review. But this edit sees nothing wrong with the Lake, here, and you wont find a better group of rangers, park attendants, and volunteers anywhere. They are always open, helpful, and they smile -- they are genuinely happy people. Its just a good vibe here, and while vistas are stunning here, this is true desert with all that goes with it (scorpions, coyotes at night, rattlesnakes day and night). Oh yeah, new bathrooms, too! Along with hot showers! Make sure, if you bring your dog, that you are well practiced at getting their poop into a bag -- this is strictly enforced, but at least they have several bag stations, with covered containers, which are kept stocked with poop bags..... they try to make it as easy as possible for people still new to this. (If you bring medium to large size dog, you will absolutely need to follow this protocol if you plan to walk them, and for sure your walk never goes unnoticed). So far (summer 2025), I've seen one 'pile', and it was a tiny chihuahua-sized poop, too -- it's so nice not having the flies, the smell, the constant need to watch each step. It's a beautiful thing, when everyone's on board, and trust me, no one is willing to go back to 'old ways', regarding dog poop, litter, etc.

James Wilson

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Chiquito lake campground. We payed only $10/night with senior discount! Amazing views and nice bathrooms especially at the Juniper section of the campground.

Local Dude (Astro)

I am astrophotographer in C. Lake. Not the most fun thing to do w/camera, which is why I spend daytime at the lake, run by our illustrious Corps of Eng. The only reason I wont go 5star is because the lake has become less and less accessible over the 22 years ive been here. Back then the town held assembley meetings there each month -- the building's interior has interesting displays about local fauna. They are still polite, but distant, now. The overlook has been closed for months -- we in town hope that, well, they are ok. Maybejust spring cleaning??

Briana Macias

Great campground with extensive amenities! We paid $12 for tent camping, which came with a grill, shelter and picnic table. They also have pristine bathrooms and showers. You do have to make a reservation in advance. Our site was 74, the views were beautiful and even had views of the tent rocks!