Hailed as the “Diamond in the Desert,” Elephant Butte is home to the largest lake in the state and Sierra del Rio, a 5-star golf course that has been recognized by Golf Digest magazine as one of the state’s ten best courses. Sierra del Rio features 18 holes, a driving range, a sport shop, and a bar/restaurant with outside seating on an exansive deck overlooking the course. And you can play year-round!
The city’s population swells during the summer, especially on big holiday weekends like July 4, when a huge fireworks show happens over the lake. With a few exceptions, most of the city’s events occur at the state park.
Elephant Butte’s Signature Events
Elephant Butte hosts a fall Balloon Regatta and “Elephant Days,” which celebrates the founding of the town.
Thousands of luminarias line specially-designed beach paths; visitors enjoy music and food provided at campfires by local organizations and businesses. This popular celebration also includes a parade of illuminated boats, and prizes are awarded at the end of the evening for best-decorated watercraft, RV, home and business in Elephant Butte.
