MORA, NM - Morphy Lake State Park has opened access to the boat ramp so motorized vehicles can now launch and load boats. Recent rains and runoff have greatly improved lake conditions.

"Water levels are doing great, all boating opportunities at the lake are back," said Park Manager Chris Vigil. "The boat ramp is open, and fishing is great, approximately 3,000 fish were stocked this week."

Morphy Lake State Park sitting at 8,000 feet elevation among ponderosa pines and surrounded by mountains, is the perfect place to get away from it all, catch a few fish and enjoy the scenery. The park has 24 developed campsites and is ideal for camping, picnicking, boating and wildlife viewing. Camp sites are furnished with tables and fireplaces, but there is no drinking water.

Located in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, privacy is easily found throughout this secluded park. The lake is stocked with trout and is a great place to camp, picnic, boat, paddle your canoe or kayak, or hike the trail around the lake which provides access for anglers. This is a pack-in, pack-out park and only electric motors and oars are permitted on boats. All boats must be registered and safety equipment must be on every vessel entering the water.

State Park officials remind boaters to always wear a lifejacket when out on the water and to be aware of weather conditions. State law requires that you wear a lifejacket when on a canoe, kayak, or raft and that all children 12 years old and younger wear a lifejacket while on the deck of a moving vessel.

The State Parks Division offers free boating safety classes around the state and on-line throughout the year; for more information, call 888-NMPARKS or visit www.nmparks.com.

For more information, call 505-476-3381, 877-NMPARKS or visit www.nmparks.com