Alkali Lake Off Highway Vehicle Area
Alkali Lake Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area has 11 miles of motorized trails winding through the dune vegetative area. Formerly a location for organized races, Alkali Lake now mostly sees casual users who desire motorized single-track trails where camping is allowed all a short drive from the town of Carlsbad.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
The OHV tracks can be accessed with an OHV; visitors must be able to drive (or be a passenger) across changing, sandy terrain, and maneuver around other OHVs also utilizing the tracks.
Know Before You Go
Fees
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None
Facilities
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Just a rough semi-circular parking area at the end of the unmarked road.
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There is no potable water at this recreation area.
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There are no restrooms at this recreation area.
Nearby Amenities
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The nearest gas stations and stores are located in Loving, N.M., 21 miles north via U.S. Route 285.
Seasons/Hours
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Open all year.
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The OHV trails may be difficult to navigate when wet.
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Special Rules
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Whatever you pack in, please pack out.
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No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons.
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Follow local fire guidelines, do not leave fires unattended and put out completely after each use.
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Please no glass bottles in the parking area or on the OHV tracks.
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Pets must be on a 6-foot leash.
BROCHURES, MAPS, AND PUBLICATIONS
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N/A
Wildlife in Area
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N/A
Flickr Slideshow
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Phone
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
From Carlsbad, New Mexico head north on N. Canal St for 4.3, stay straight to continue onto Illinois Camp Road for .7 miles. Turn right onto Rains Road and drive for .9 miles before turning left on an unmarked road and continue driving for .6 miles to hit the trails. It is important to follow these directions. If you put the GPS coordinates into a map app it will take you up an OHV track as a “shortcut” and you may get stuck.
Fees
No