SANTA FE, NM – Starting January 1, 2025, New Mexico State Parks will roll out updated park fees and boating regulations. These changes, designed to improve operations and enhance safety, will affect both residents and non-residents. Updates include revised camping and day-use fees, new annual pass policies, and mandatory safety measures for boaters.

"State parks offer invaluable outdoor experiences, but our fees haven't kept pace with rising operational costs," said State Parks Division Director Toby Velasquez. "These adjustments are essential to enhance visitor experiences and protect our parks for future generations."

Here's an overview of the key changes:

Fee Changes

Day Use fees:
Day use fees will be assessed per vehicle, per day.

New Mexico residents:
Free day-use access from October 1 through April 30 annually with valid state-issued ID or vehicles with New Mexico plates.

Non-residents:
Applicable day-use fees will remain year-round.

Camping fees:
Camping fees will be assessed per vehicle, per day, including for walk-in campers or those arriving by bicycle.

Annual passes:
All annual passes will now align with the calendar year (January-December).

Pro-rated passes will be available in 2025 for those transitioning from earlier expiration dates.

Utility fees:

Utility fees for RVs will increase and now include a charge for water service. These fees will apply at sites with utility hook-ups, regardless of usage.

Boating safety rules and registration updates

Mandatory personal flotation devices:

Effective January 1, 2025, all individuals using human-powered watercraft (e.g., kayaks, canoes, paddleboards) or engaging in boat races must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD.

Human-powered watercraft:
Includes all vessels powered by hands, feet, oars, paddles, or pedals. "Paddlecraft" refers to kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and similar vessels.

What visitors need to know

Residents can enjoy free day-use access during the off-season, while non-residents will see no changes to existing day-use fees.

Boaters must comply with updated safety regulations, including mandatory PFD use on all state waters.

Visitors will experience an increase in camping fees and revised annual pass policies starting January 1, 2025.

For more details on these changes, including a full breakdown of fees and boating regulations, visit New Mexico State Parks website at: emnrd.nm.gov/spd/fees-permits/.