Water Activities

The Gila National Forest does not manage any open water lakes or ponds. Some reservoirs are located close to or on Forest Service land where swimming, motorized and non-motorized boating is allowed:

Bear Canyon Dam
Bill Evans Dam
Glenwood Pond
Lake Roberts
Quemado Lake
Snow Lake

Fees may be charged for launching or camping. Check the bulletin board near the launch area for information.

Boating - Motorized

Gas motors prohibited

Boating - Non-Motorized

Some non-motorized watercraft may operate on the Gila River. For information on river flow rates, warnings and restrictions -- click on USGS Current Conditions for New Mexico Streamflow

Swimming

A number of hot springs occur within the boundaries of the Gila National Forest. The temperature of the water in each spring varies as well as the size of the pool(s) formed by the spring. Often the springs occur in close proximity to streams and rivers. These areas are fragile and can be easily damaged through overuse. Please treat the springs and pools with care so that others may enjoy them in the future.