Rio Chama
The Chama drops south from Colorado past the town of Chama, through Heron and El Vado lakes and Chama Canyon, into Abiquiu Lake, then turns southeast past Abiquiu to the Rio Grande.
Course of the river, simplified. Map data from Natural Earth (public domain).
Weather at the Rio Chama (National Weather Service) ↗
River facts
| Length | About 130 miles |
|---|---|
| Source | West and East Fork confluence, San Juan Mountains, southern Colorado |
| Mouth | Rio Grande near Ohkay Owingeh, north of Espanola, New Mexico |
| State | New Mexico |
El Vado and Abiquiu dams impound the river, with Heron Dam on nearby Willow Creek.
Boat ramps, launches and bait shops
Detailed ramp, bait shop and lock-and-dam listings for the Rio Chama are coming soon. Until then, these searches open Google Maps along the river:
Fishing regulations
Check the state agency for river-specific rules, seasons and limits before you fish:
- New Mexico: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish ↗
Lakes on or near the Rio Chama
Lakes in our guide on or near this river:
Facts from Rio Chama (Wikipedia) ↗