Sumner Dam and Lake Sumner, features of the Carlsbad Project, are on the Pecos River about 250 river miles north of Carlsbad and about 16 miles northwest of Fort Sumner, New Mexico. The Lake is 4,500 water surface acres with 60 miles of shoreline. Recreation is managed for Reclamation by the New Mexico State Parks, (505) 355-2541.No food service or lodging within park. Lodging is available in Fort Sumner or in Santa Rosa, 42 miles north. No concessions. Year round fishing for white bass, catfish, walleye, and bream. Scuba diving for game fish permitted. Stream fishing downstream from dam. Boating must conform to New Mexico regulations. There is a playground and opportunities for birdwatching. A visitor center operated by NM State Parks is scheduled to open in the winter of 2005.

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