STARS: 3.75 out of 5

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ELEPHANT BUTTE STATE PARK, LIONS BEACH CAMPGROUND, NM: GPS 33.1770° N, 107.2253° W

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We didn't boondock here because we didn't know it was an option until we got to our reserved site. Given that we rated the reserved campground a 2.75 out of 5, it is safe to say if I came back here I would definitely do the beach boondocking.

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It is sometimes busy on the beach, with boaters and trucks and kids and the like, but it clears out at dark and is overall a very nice spot.

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Seasonally there are some sand flies and other bugs in the late afternoon, so it's good to be aware of that.

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There are no convenient drop toilets or other bathrooms.

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You do have to pay entrance into the park, and I don't know how much that is because we have the America the Beautiful pass.