
Heron Lake
Heron Lake State Park is a scenic natural wonderland situated in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. The park encompasses the vast and picturesque Heron Lake, which spans over 6,000 acres and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and tall pine forests. Heron Lake is a quiet lake where boats can only operate at no-wake speeds, making it an ideal spot for all types of paddle craft, from canoes to kayaks and paddleboards. In addition to water-based activities, Heron Lake State Park also offers a range of other outdoor recreational opportunities. The lake is known for its excellent sailing, and visitors can often be seen out on the water enjoying the fresh mountain breeze. Cross-country skiing is also a popular activity during the winter months, with miles of groomed trails that wind through the surrounding forests. Hiking is another popular activity, with several trails that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Heron Lake is a fisherman's paradise, with record-size trout and kokanee salmon to be found in its waters. The lake is stocked regularly, so there is always something to catch. Ice fishing is also popular during the winter months, with many visitors braving the cold temperatures to try their luck on the frozen lake. Several campgrounds line the shore of Heron Lake, providing visitors with plenty of options for overnight stays. Both primitive and developed campsites are available, so whether you prefer to rough it in a tent or enjoy the comforts of an RV, there is an option to suit every taste. The campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water and restrooms. Overall, Heron Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the natural beauty of northern New Mexico. With its stunning lake, miles of hiking trails, excellent fishing, and peaceful atmosphere, Heron Lake State Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.
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Heron Lake
Heron Lake State Park is a scenic natural wonderland situated in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. The park encompasses the vast and picturesque Heron Lake, which spans over 6,000 acres and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and tall pine forests. Heron Lake is a quiet lake where boats can only operate at no-wake speeds, making it an ideal spot for all types of paddle craft, from canoes to kayaks and paddleboards. In addition to water-based activities, Heron Lake State Park also offers a range of other outdoor recreational opportunities. The lake is known for its excellent sailing, and visitors can often be seen out on the water enjoying the fresh mountain breeze. Cross-country skiing is also a popular activity during the winter months, with miles of groomed trails that wind through the surrounding forests. Hiking is another popular activity, with several trails that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Heron Lake is a fisherman's paradise, with record-size trout and kokanee salmon to be found in its waters. The lake is stocked regularly, so there is always something to catch. Ice fishing is also popular during the winter months, with many visitors braving the cold temperatures to try their luck on the frozen lake. Several campgrounds line the shore of Heron Lake, providing visitors with plenty of options for overnight stays. Both primitive and developed campsites are available, so whether you prefer to rough it in a tent or enjoy the comforts of an RV, there is an option to suit every taste. The campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water and restrooms. Overall, Heron Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the natural beauty of northern New Mexico. With its stunning lake, miles of hiking trails, excellent fishing, and peaceful atmosphere, Heron Lake State Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Latest Water Temperature Data: Current water temperature for Heron Lake is 63° Fahrenheit - providing real-time thermal conditions for fishing, swimming, and water recreation planning.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Saturday, Jul 12
MostlyClear
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Weather Forecast & Fishing Conditions at Heron Lake
Today's weather at Heron Lake features partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 84°F. Wind conditions will average 6 mph with gusts reaching up to 27 mph, creating excellent fishing conditions with calm waters. The UV index will reach 11 (Extreme), and there's a 53% chance of precipitation. The current water temperature is 63°F (updated Jul 10), indicating that optimal for trout and cold-water species. These conditions will significantly impact fish behavior and angling success throughout the day.
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Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
Best Bite Times
Major Times (Peak)
8:01 AM - 10:31 AM
6:08 PM - 8:38 PM
Minor Times (Good)
3:36 AM - 5:06 AM
1:06 PM - 2:36 PM
Fishing Intelligence
Today's fishing action at Heron Lake is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). For the best results, target the major bite times around 8:01 AM and 6:08 PM.
Water Temp Impact: With the water at 63°F, expect excellent conditions for cool-water species like trout and walleye.
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Heron Lake
Current Temp
Measured on Jul 7
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
52°F
On Jan 22
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
64°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: August (74°F).
- Coolest avg: January (52°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: March → April (+8°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-7°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
46°
Pressure
1008 mb
Cloud Cover
19%
Visibility
39 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Heron Lake
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