Sandia Lakes Recreation Area is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Sandoval County, New Mexico. Water quality is graded C based on 1 sampling years through 2026. Compared to the 2 other monitored lakes in Sandoval County, Sandia Lakes Recreation Area ranks #2 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, New Mexico DNR, last sampled 2026-06-15. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
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Swimming Safety
Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality
Water Quality Grade: C, Fair
Very murky, less than 1.3 ft of visibility. Phosphorus level: 50.5 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 67.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 1.3 ft | F |
| Phosphorus | 50.5 µg/L | C |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 67 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
Where to stay near Sandia Lakes Recreation Area
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Fishing Sandia Lakes Recreation Area
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #2 of 3 lakes in Sandoval County
Nearby Lakes in Sandoval County
Explore Sandia Lakes Recreation Area across LakeGrade
More New Mexico Lake Rankings
Other Grade C Lakes in New Mexico
Eutrophic Lakes in New Mexico
More records, surveys & data sources
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2026-06-15
Monitoring stations: 2