New Mexico’s latest state park offering aims to honor those who served our country, with free access for life. Starting July 1, 2025, New Mexico resident veterans can apply for this lifetime pass and will never have to pay for day-use entry or camping access at any state park in the Land of Enchantment.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed House Bill 161 on March 20, 2025, to provide recreational opportunities and access for New Mexico veterans. According to a press release, the bill received strong bipartisan support in the legislature. That bill opened the door to create this new lifetime pass.
“Our state parks system represents some of New Mexico’s most beautiful and treasured lands,” Secretary Melanie A. Kenderdine, for the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD), said in a press release. “We are honored to open these spaces to the men and women who have served our nation.”
Sidney Hill, the public information officer for EMNRD, told GearJunkie that this benefit will only provide access to New Mexico’s 35 state parks and does not include state monuments. It is also only available for nonactive duty military veterans.
‘Find Peace, Connect With Nature’
There are 35 state parks in New Mexico that veterans will be able to visit and camp at for free with this new pass. From Pecos Canyon to Elephant Butte, Cimarron Canyon, and City of Rocks, there is no shortage of places for veterans to visit.
For a complete list of New Mexico State Parks, check out the EMNRD website. That site also offers up-to-date info on New Mexico park closures and alerts. It’s also where you can book campsites and obtain permits for all 35 state parks.
Governor Grisham said in a press release, “This lifetime pass gives our veterans access to some of the most beautiful places in our state — places where they can find peace, connect with nature, and enjoy the outdoor recreation that makes New Mexico home.”
Eligibility & How to Apply
According to Hill, “To qualify for the pass, an individual must be a verified military veteran and a New Mexico resident.” Hill said both of those statuses will be verified when a veteran submits an application to the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services.
To inquire about eligibility, fill out an application, or obtain general information for the new benefit, email vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov or call 1-866-433-8387.
Secretary Kenderdine stated that “providing veterans the chance to enjoy our parks and campgrounds is a meaningful way to say thanks, and we look forward to honoring the lifetime veterans pass in parks.”
