Cochiti Lake Recreation Area — Attraction in New Mexico

My friend and I had recently volunteered for a project sponsored by the US Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a bird count in the Cochiti Dam area in New Mexico. Our primary focus was on spotting and counting bald eagles. After registration and orientation on a chilly January morning around 9:30 a.m., we were divided into three teams. One team was assigned to a boat, another to an area near the far end of the lake, and the third, my team, to the dam itself.

While we were able to observe bald eagles in the area, three or four adults and a handful of juveniles, it is important to note that they were typically no closer than a quarter-mile away. If you're interested in taking photographs of the eagles, you'll need a telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 600mm or greater.

The Cochiti Dam area is a great place to see bald and golden eagles in their natural habitat. If you want to take close-up photos of the birds, make sure to bring the right photography equipment. However, keep in mind that you need permission from the US Army Corp of Engineers and an escort to access the dam...

The camping area near the lake was pretty good. We got the one that was not very close to it. Our ground was good for tent camping. We had good space for getting water and electricity. The toilets were close enough and super clean( flushable). We loved the climate towards 5pm. Afternoons were pretty hot and night had thunderstorm. Our tent was swaying pretty hard but thankfully we had everything set in place- the thunders scared us, even though it lasted for couple of hours. We had amazing Co- campers. The mosquitoes are a big menace in the morning. Would prepare extra to keep them at bay next time: Overall it was fun....

Gorgeous area. We stayed in Elk Run; the spaces are all large; each has a large covered cement picnic table. It's quiet, and the other travelers are friendly. Cell signal is okay. Two things though: the place really needs a full time camp host. And the bathrooms: the shower spray can't be adjusted, neither can the temperature. You get moderately warm water as long as you keep pushing the little button on the wall. Also, the toilets are very low flow. So the flushing isn't always effective.🤮. I would return but only if they get the toilet...