Known simply as “La Presa” to the locals, La Boca Dam is a multifunctional, man-made reservoir situated next to the “magic town” of Santiago. Most visitors combine a visit to La Boca Dam with an exploration of Santiago, a hike to the nearby Horsetail Waterfall (Cascada Cola de Caballo), or a stop in the Los Cavazos artisan village. Visit by day for a wealth of outdoor activity options—such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding—or rent a catamaran and enjoy an afternoon party on the water. Alcohol, soft drinks, and snacks are available to buy on-site.
There’s no admission fee to access La Boca Dam.
Be sure to collect and dispose of your trash responsibly after visiting La Boca Dam.
There are some restaurants, children’s play areas, and a dock at La Boca Dam.
Take plenty of cash to buy snacks, rent catamarans, and ride horses, or pack your own food and enjoy a barbecue.
It’s technically prohibited to enter with your own alcoholic drinks, as they are sold on-site.
Due to uneven and often muddy ground, La Boca Dam is not fully wheelchair accessible.
La Boca Dam is situated an easy 45-minute drive from downtown Monterrey, along Highway 85. Most visitors find it easiest to access by private vehicle, although you can save yourself the hassle of renting a car by taking a rideshare direct to La Boca Dam instead.
La Boca Dam is at its lively, party-hard best on weekends and holidays; parking space around the shore is often tight at these times. For a more family-friendly atmosphere, travelers with kids should visit midweek or in the morning. During Monterrey’s often oppressively hot summer months, stop by in the late afternoon or evening to avoid the worst of the day’s heat.
While most visitors combine a visit to La Boca Dam with a stop in Santiago or a trip to the Horsetail Waterfall, there’s plenty more to do in Monterrey. Escape the city center at the Chipinque Ecological Park; get hands-on at the Alfa Planetarium; or enjoy the historic museums and monuments of the Macroplaza. Afterwards, spend some time people-watching in Fundidora Park.