SANTA FE – In recognition of Veterans Day on Tuesday, Nov. 11, the State Parks Division reminds New Mexico resident veterans to apply for their lifetime veterans pass.
With the signing of House Bill 161, which went into effect on July 1, the State Parks Division partnered with the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (NMDVS) to implement this new benefit for New Mexico veterans.
The new lifetime pass gives veterans with verified New Mexico residency free access to state parks, including unlimited day use and camping in areas managed by the State Parks Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department.
"More than 6,000 veterans have claimed their lifetime passes since July 1," saidState Parks Director Toby Velasquez. "We are honored to welcome our veterans to their state parks.
We also want to remind everyone that while some state parks have seasonal closures, 33 of 35 state parks are open year-round."
In addition, on Veterans' Day, any New Mexico resident on active duty, along with their spouse and dependent children, has free access to any state park. All day-use and campings fees are waived for active-duty service members and their families on that day.
If you are a veteran and have not yet appplied for your lifetime pass, contact NMDVS by email at
New Mexico State Parks manages a diverse range of parks, offering outdoor activities that include hiking, fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Established in 1933, the New Mexico State Parks system serves over 5 million visitors annually and provides an ideal setting for visitors to experience the state's natural beauty and unique cultural heritage.
Reserve your camping spot up to six months in advance now at reserveamerica.com.
For more information about our 35 State Parks log onto our website at emnrd.nm.gov/spd or call 1-888-NMPARKS (1-888-667-2757).
