Visitors today can enjoy picnicking, camping and superb fishing at the park's 170-acre lake, as well as view one of the most extensive dinosaur track ways in North America. Clayton Lake was created by the State Game and Fish Department in 1955 as a fishing lake and winter waterfowl resting area. A dam was constructed across Seneca Creek, which is actually a series of seeps except after heavy rains.

During the fishing season, which usually runs from April to October each year, the lake is a popular spot for anglers hoping to catch trout, catfish, bass and walleye. Boats are allowed on the lake, but are restricted to trolling speeds. The lake is closed to fishing during the winter, when it serves as a stopover for waterfowl. Several duck species including mallards, pintails and teals frequent the lake, and Canada geese and bald eagles are often seen here.

The park offers camping and picnicking facilities, a group shelter, and a modern comfort station. The dinosaur tracks are located on the dam spillway, at the end of a gentle 1/4 mile trail. Best times to view the tracks are in the morning and the late afternoon. A sheltered gazebo and boardwalk trail along the track way provide extensive information regarding the dinosaurs who traveled here so long ago.

You can meet the Park Manager and Rangers here.

Did you know Clayton Lake State Park has been the pioneer for State Parks around New Mexico for many years? For example:
1) We were the first State Park in New Mexico to use Straw Bale Architecture for or Visitor Center. Read More
2) The Friends group has set standards all across New Mexico in recent years.
3) We are the first State Park to have a website dedicated to us. It is funded by local companies donations.