Day-use access to New Mexico state parks will be free for New Mexico residents during the offseason starting January 1, 2025.
Residents can visit parks at no cost from October 1 through April 30 by presenting a valid New Mexico ID or a vehicle with a New Mexico license plate. Walk-in and bicycle access for day use will remain free throughout the year.
During the peak season, from May 1 to September 30, day-use fees will be $5 per vehicle for residents and $10 for nonresidents. Currently, day-use fees range from $3 to $5, depending on the park. According to a press release, the New Mexico State Parks Division (NMSPD) highlighted that these fees apply per vehicle, per day.
The agency also announced updated camping fees, new annual pass policies, and mandatory safety measures for boaters. Daily camping fees for primitive sites will increase to $10 for residents and $15 for nonresidents, while developed campsites will cost $15 for residents and $20 for nonresidents.
Current fees are $8 for primitive sites and $10 for developed sites, regardless of residency. Utility hookups will incur additional charges, with water and sewer hookups costing $5 each per day and electric hookups $10 per day.
Presently, water hookups are free, and combined sewer and electric hookups cost $14, including the camping fee. The updated fees will apply to all sites with utility hookups, irrespective of usage.
Annual passes will be aligned with the calendar year starting January 2025. Prorated passes will be offered during the transition. Day-use annual passes will cost $75 for residents and $150 for nonresidents, with disabled veterans eligible for free passes.
Camping annual passes will be priced at $300 for residents and $600 for nonresidents, with discounted rates of $150 available for resident seniors, disabled persons, veterans, and active-duty military personnel. Replacement annual camping passes will cost $25.
Effective January 1, 2025, all individuals using human-powered watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and rafts must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD). This requirement extends to participants in boat races on state waters.
The registration fees for boats will also be revised. Fees will range from $60 for boats under 16 feet to $180 for boats exceeding 40 feet. These registrations will remain valid for three years.
