Grindstone Lake: All You Need To Know
Discover everything you need to know about Grindstone Lake, one of Ruidoso's most popular recreation areas. Located just minutes from downtown Ruidoso, Grindstone Lake offers hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and disc golf.
Know Before You Go: IRONMAN 70.3 Race Week (July 6–12, 2026)
If you're visiting Ruidoso for IRONMAN 70.3, please be aware of temporary closures and parking changes during race week.
Grindstone Lake
- Grindstone Lake, the Wibit Water Park, and the main parking area will be closed July 6–12.
- Hiking trails and the Grindstone Disc Golf Course remain open.
- Trail access is available via Fisherman's Trail, with parking at the Grindstone Disc Golf parking lot (509 Resort Drive).
- Spectators will not be permitted at Grindstone Lake on race day.
White Mountain Sports Complex
- The White Mountain Sports Complex parking lot will be closed July 6–12.
- The Dog Park and Pickleball Courts remain open.
- Parking is available at the Ruidoso Convention Center (111 Sierra Blanca Drive).
- Visitors attending IRONMAN Village should plan to park at an alternate location and walk to the event.
Spectator Information
Join the excitement at IRONMAN Village on Sunday, July 12 at the White Mountain Sports Complex. Enjoy live race-course streaming, a vendor expo, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
Grindstone Lake is close to downtown Ruidoso and offers the widest range of activities.
Address: 111 Wiggins Way, off Resort Drive
Information: Ruidoso Parks and Recreation (575) 257-5030
Grindstone Lake Webcam. Enjoy your favorite view from home.
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GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
Pets must be on a leash.
Visitors age 12 and older must have a valid New Mexico fishing license.
Seasonal Parking: Paid parking is in effect from May 23 through September 7. Parking permits are available through Ruidoso Parks & Recreation. Non-resident daily fees may apply. For current details, call 575-257-5030.
Non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, rowboats) are allowed.
Village of Ruidoso Local Season Pass: $10
Lincoln County Residents Season Pass $20;
NM Residents Season Pass $30;
Shore Fishing Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 p.m.
Vessel Fishing Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Boat Permits:
Day Pass= $5 | Annual Pass= $20 (valid through December 31)
Boating permits are required and can be obtained by contacting Ruidoso Parks & Rec at 575-257-5030.
Learn more about Grindstone Lake rules, regulations, hours, etc. at RuidosoParksandRec.com.
GRINDSTONE NEWS & INFORMATION
With courses at Grindstone Lake and Ski Apache, add disc golf to your list of fun things to do in Ruidoso. Better yet, bring your own disc and it’s free fun for the whole family.