4 lakes worth visiting in New Mexico this summer

May 14—As summer approaches and temperatures rise, a dip in a cool body of water sounds more and more appealing. Although New Mexico is a desert, there are still many places to splash around the state.Here are four places to enjoy taking a cool dip this summer. Cochiti Lake

Cochiti Lake has day use recreation areas including swim beaches, boat launch areas, picnic sites and campgrounds.LOCATION: Pueblo de Cochiti Indian ReservationHOURS: Day Use Area 8 a.m.-8 p.m.Camping reservations can be made online, or by calling 1-877-444-6777 COST: Day Use Area: $5Camping: $10 for primitive tent sites with no utilities$15 for trailer accessible sites without utility hookups$20 for camp sites with full electrical and water hookups

Elephant Butte

The water reservoir has sandy beaches, picnic areas and plenty of space for boats, kayaks, jet skis, pontoons, sailboats and houseboats. LOCATION: Elephant Butte HOURS: 6 a.m.-9 p.m.COST: Day Use Area: $5Camping: $8 for a primitive site$10 for a developed site$14 for a developed site + electric hookup$14 for a developed site + sewage hookup$18 for a developed site + electric & sewage hookups$4 for an electric hookup with annual camping permit$4 for a sewage hookup with annual camping permit$8 for an electric & sewage hookup with annual camping permit

Abiquiú Lake

Enjoy fishing, boating, camping, hiking and water sports at this 5,200 surface acre reservoir. Reptile fossils from 200 million years ago have been found in the area. Camping reservations can be made online. LOCATION: Abiquiú HOURS: COST:Day Use Area $5Camping:$10 for primitive tent sites with no utilities$15 for trailer accessible sites without utility hookups $20 for camp sites with full electrical and water hookups

Blue Hole

Blue Hole is one of seven sister lakes connected by an underground water system. This unique watering hole fills with 3,000 gallons of water every minute from the natural flow. The hole is bell-shaped and is 80 feet across and 130 feet deep. The water is so clear, you can see all the way to the bottom. This is a popular scuba diving spot, and permits can be purchased on-site.

If you've never been scuba diving and are curious to try it, the on-site diving center offers equipment rentals and training for beginners.

Visitors are also welcome to swim in the hole and the water stays a constant 62 degrees, perfect for a dip on a hot summer's day.

LOCATION: Santa Rosa

HOURS: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and SundayCOST: $25 weekly dive permit$75 annual dive permit$125 annual instructor permit