How do I access Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?

Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is a public boat ramp in New Mexico. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?

Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?

The best time to paddle at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?

Water conditions at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina include calm, sheltered.

Is Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina good for beginners?

Yes, Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

brown rock formation beside body of water under blue sky during daytime

Photo by Stephanie Klepacki on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina

Navajo Dam, NM · Boat Ramp · Public

Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is a public boat ramp on San Juan River - Navajo Lake near Navajo Dam, New Mexico. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Launch into San Juan River - Navajo Lake near Navajo Dam, New Mexico. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is a public access point on San Juan River - Navajo Lake in New Mexico, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. Desert waterways in the Southwest offer unique paddling through dramatic canyon and mesa landscapes.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Navajo Dam, Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Navajo Dam area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?: Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is a public boat ramp in New Mexico. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?: Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?: The best time to paddle at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina?: Water conditions at Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina include calm, sheltered.
Is Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina good for beginners?: Yes, Navajo Lake State Park - Sims Marina is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 36.8295, -107.5918