The Bureau of Land Management Roswell Field Office announced a temporary closure of Rob Jaggers Campground at the Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area.
The closure will begin at 8 a.m. on April 16 and conclude at 5 p.m. on April 18 to accommodate the Capitan Mountain 34 Hour Race.
Yeti Trail Runners LLC secured a special recreation permit from the BLM to host the event. The race operations will be centered within the campground and the surrounding day-use parking areas, according to an announcement.
Outdoor Recreation Planner Jesse Vinson stated that the public can expect to see a much heavier than normal presence of campers, vehicles, and tents within the campground. Vinson added that there will be increased vehicle traffic on the surrounding roads leading up to and throughout the duration of the event.
The run is scheduled to take place on the Trail Access Loop Trail. This specific trail begins and ends at the Rob Jaggers Campground facility.
While the campground is unavailable to the public, the BLM recommends utilizing other camping areas within the National Conservation Area. Alternative options include Cave Canyon Campground and various dispersed camping opportunities.
The Valley of Fires Recreation Area and Three Rivers Petroglyph Site Campground will also remain open for recreational use during this period. Additional information regarding these sites is available on the bureau’s website at blm.gov/visit.
This news highlights the role of public lands in hosting major endurance events, which can drive regional tourism but also necessitate temporary closures and the redirection of guests to alternative facilities.
For park operators, understanding these event-driven displacements is crucial for managing overflow and coordinating regional camping availability to ensure a seamless experience for outdoor enthusiasts.