WATER Activities

Great adventures await at the Pecos River Recreation Area, located in the heart of downtown Carlsbad. Enjoy boating , waterskiing and fishing on Lake Carlsbad, where you can rent kayaks and paddle boats or set out on a boat tour. You'll find plenty of picnic areas, parks, golf courses and a lakeside walkway that meanders for nearly five miles. The area also offers tennis and racquetball courts, along with plenty of playgrounds with grills available for use.

Cool off at the Carlsbad Water Park, a fun family spot on the shores of the Pecos River. Ride the twin speed slides and the  50-foot-tall slide known as “Big Blue,”  then take a leisurely float in the lazy river pool. The park includes a zero entry children's play area as well as locker rooms.

Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, Tuesday through Sunday, from 11am to 6pm. Hours will be adjusted mid August-September  $5 admission; those under 4 and over 61 get in for free!

The Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area is a rare gem in the hot desert, this oasis offers cool pools of water and the awesome Sitting Bull Falls. Day-use area only. Pavilions, picnic tables, water, and restrooms provided. Access to many trails can be found from this site.

By day, Brantley Lake State Park is a popular spot for boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. At night, however, the focus turns to the skies, where stunning sunsets and a canopy of stars take your breath away.

Carlsbad has TWO SPLASH PADS!!

Part of the Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area, Lower Tansill Dam is a great spot for bird watching, fishing, and picnicking.