Starting January 1, 2025, New Mexico State Parks will implement changes to its fees. One such change will be that New Mexico residents can enjoy free day-use access to state parks during the offseason by showing a valid New Mexico ID or vehicle license plate. This benefit applies from October 1 to April 30. Walk-in and bicycle access will remain free year-round.
During the peak season (May 1–September 30), day-use fees will be $5 per vehicle for residents and $10 for nonresidents. Current fees, which range from $3 to $5, vary by park. According to the New Mexico State Parks Division (NMSPD), these charges apply per vehicle, per day.
Camping fees are also set to increase. Primitive sites will cost $10 per night for residents and $15 for nonresidents, while developed campsites will be $15 and $20, respectively. Additional fees for utility hookups include $5 each per day for water and sewer and $10 for electricity. Currently, water hookups are free, and combined sewer and electric hookups cost $14, including the camping fee.
Annual passes will follow the calendar year starting January 2025. Day-use passes will cost $75 for residents and $150 for nonresidents, with free passes available to disabled veterans. Camping passes will be $300 for residents and $600 for nonresidents, with discounted $150 passes for resident seniors, disabled persons, veterans, and active-duty military. Replacement camping passes will cost $25.
New safety rules for boaters will also take effect on January 1, 2025. Users of human-powered watercraft, such as kayaks and paddleboards, must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD). This requirement includes participants in state water boat races.
Boat registration fees will increase, ranging from $60 for boats under 16 feet to $180 for boats over 40 feet, with registrations valid for three years.
##RVT1189b
Thank you for the news, RV Travel! Happy new year and safe travels! 🙂