New Mexico veterans get free day use and camping at State Parks
Michelle Lujan Grisham, Governor
Melanie Kenderdine, Cabinet Secretary
Ben Shelton, Deputy Cabinet Secretary
Erin Taylor, Deputy Cabinet Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sidney Hill
Public Information Officer, EMNRD
sidney.hill@emnrd.nm.gov
June 27, 2025
New Mexico veterans get free day use and camping at State Parks
Benefit is effective July 1
SANTA FE — Starting July 1, New Mexico resident veterans are eligible for a lifetime pass for day-use and camping access to all New Mexico State Parks.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed House Bill 161 to provide recreational opportunities for New Mexico veterans in the last legislative session. The New Mexico State Parks Division (NMSP) partnered with the Department of Veterans’ Services (NMDVS) to quickly implement this new benefit.
“New Mexico's veterans have served our country with honor, and they deserve tangible support that matches their sacrifice, ” said Gov. Lujan Grisham . “ 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. Supporting our veterans' wellbeing makes all of us stronger .”
“This new benefit shows how much we appreciate our veterans,” said NMDVS Sec. Jamison Herrera . “Letting them enjoy our state parks gives them a chance to relax, have fun, and heal in New Mexico’s beautiful outdoors.”
New Mexico veterans interested in receiving this lifetime pass should contact NMDVS by email at vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov or by calling 1-866-433-8387 to inquire about eligibility, fill out an application, or obtain general information about this new benefit.
"New Mexico’s state parks encompass some of our most scenic and valued lands," said EMNRD Sec. Melanie A. Kenderdine . "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."
House Bill 161 received strong bipartisan legislative support, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting New Mexico's veterans. This bill provides veterans residing in New Mexico with free access to state parks, including unlimited day-use passes and camping passes for areas operated by the State Parks Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department.
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The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department provides resource protection and renewable energy resource development services to the public and other state agencies.
http://www.emnrd.nm.gov
Sidney Hill
Public Information Officer
New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD)
Email: sidney.hill@emnrd.nm.gov
Phone: 505-629-2900