Memorial Day weekend draws thousands to Caballo and Elephant Butte lakes

Park officials say they estimate nearly 90,000 boaters and campers visited Elephant Butte Lake over the Memorial Day Weekend.

Another 19,000 visitors were expected at Caballo Lake.

Caballo’s Superintendent, Saul Baquera, said they have five law enforcement officers in charge of patrolling the lake.

He said they also get assistance from New Mexico State Police.

Baquera said the most common citations officers issue are visitors with messy campgrounds or not paying the entrance fee.

Baquera said they haven’t issued any citations for boaters driving while under the influence this weekend.

But if you are caught with a blood alcohol content of .08 or above while operating a boat, it is a criminal offense. You can face up to 90 days in jail and will have to pay a mandatory $500 fine.