percha dam state park

Well, turned out Leasburg State Park was full up and overflowing. Caballo Lake Campground across the way was almost full, and so Percha Dam State Park it was. Nice campsites with covered pads and picnic tables. Plenty of electrical hookups for $14 a day. Lots of Basic tent sites with just picnic tables down below, closer to the Rio Grande River. A major plus was the nice hot showers and flush toilets in the main campground area. End of the campground loop towards the south abuts an agricultural operation, and the weekend we were there the smell of cow fertilizer was VERY strong. Also, Ranger ? the guy who went around and made sure you had paid your fee for the night before is either a former cop/military guy, and I warn you, you will not get a smile out of him. Otherwise, things were fine. The weather was great, and the Rio Grand, although diminished greatly, was nice to see. Would stay again.

Percha Dam State Park is a small park mostly devoted to camping. We heard it recommended for bird sightings, and stopped by. The campground was mostly uninteresting, although we did spot a Black Phoebe near the dam. The trail through the adjoining woods, accessible by crossing the metal footbridge, is must better. Hepatic Tanager, Lesser Goldfinch, and much more was seen easily over the course of an hour or so. It seems to be the best birding spot among the state parks in the Truth or Consequences area - we visited several.