LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Catfish Falls (historical)
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Catfish Falls (historical)
Catfish Falls is a historical waterfall feature on the shores of the Santa Rosa Reservoir, a recreation area managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Once a more visible cascade, the falls are no longer an active or prominent flow and now read more like a geological and historical point of interest along the reservoir shoreline than a roaring waterfall. Visitors often come for the sense of history and the rugged scenery rather than a steady stream of water. The site is conveniently close to Rocky Point Campground—about 2.18 km away—making Catfish Falls an easy side trip for campers at Santa Rosa Reservoir. Because the route is unmaintained and not an official USFS trail, plan for some off-trail walking and check with the USACE manager at Santa Rosa Reservoir for any access guidance or seasonal restrictions before you go.
The Setting
Catfish Falls (historical) sits at 4,678 feet within Santa Rosa Reservoir, in the mountains of New Mexico.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no official USFS trail name or number for this route; the terrain is unmaintained and the surface is primitive—expect bootpaths, rocks, and occasional brush rather than a graded trail. The average grade is relatively gentle (roughly 2–3% overall), but short steeper pitches may occur; navigation can require basic map- or GPS-assisted route-finding and willingness to walk off-trail.
What to Expect
Visitors should expect minimal or no water flow at the site, as Catfish Falls is considered a historical feature. The area may offer scenic views, geological formations, or historical significance.
Accessibility
Accessibility is unknown and may be limited due to the historical nature of the site and lack of maintained trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Catfish Falls (historical)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Catfish Falls (historical)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer may offer the best conditions for exploring the area, as weather is typically more favorable.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September).
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution when exploring unmaintained or off-trail areas. Be prepared for uneven terrain, potential wildlife encounters, and limited cell service. Always inform someone of your plans before visiting remote locations.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Pecos River, 2.2 miles away, not on Catfish Falls (historical)'s own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 46 years of record
3.00 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PECOS RIVER BELOW SANTA ROSA DAM, NM (4 km away).
Today
Low
0 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Moderate
0 cfs
4/10Sun
Moderate
0 cfs
4/10Mon
Moderate
0 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
0 cfs
6/10Wed
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Best window: Tue — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early July, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Santa Rosa hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Catfish Falls are unclear, as it is considered a historical site and may not be easily accessible. Visitors should consult local resources or historical records for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unknown. Visitors may need to park in nearby areas and hike to the site if access is possible.
Elevation
4,678 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.056445° N, -104.688878° W
Land Management
Managed by USACE
Visitor Tips & Gear
Research the area thoroughly before visiting. Bring a detailed map and be prepared for off-trail navigation. Check with local authorities or landowners for access permissions.
Where to Stay
La Quinta by Wyndham Santa Rosa
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Rosa, NM
Comfort Inn Santa Rosa on Route 66
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Santa Rosa
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Rocky Point Campground
1.4 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of Santa Rosa Lake
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural or historical sites in New Mexico. Research the area for additional points of interest.
Wildlife
The area may host typical New Mexico wildlife, such as birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Be cautious of potential encounters with snakes or other wildlife.
Cities near Catfish Falls (historical)
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