Camping in New Mexico: campsites, permits and passes
Camping in New Mexico starts in one of a few places: New Mexico State Parks for state park campsites, Recreation.gov for federal campgrounds, or free dispersed camping on National Forest and BLM land. Here's where to book each, plus permits, passes and licences.
Most people go to:
State park campsites
New Mexico state park campgrounds are booked through New Mexico State Parks ↗. Book as early as you can for summer and holiday weekends, and check each park's page for cabins, yurts, group sites and pet rules.
National parks in New Mexico
- Carlsbad Caverns National Park
- White Sands National Park
Campgrounds in national parks are booked on Recreation.gov. See every park, monument and historic site in New Mexico on the National Park Service New Mexico page ↗.
National forests and free camping
New Mexico's national forests include Gila, Santa Fe, Carson, Lincoln, Cibola. Developed campgrounds are booked on Recreation.gov (some are first-come, first-served), and most national forest land allows free dispersed camping away from developed sites, usually for up to 14 days. Check the forest's rules and any fire restrictions first.
New Mexico also has large areas of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, where dispersed camping is generally free and allowed for up to 14 days in one spot unless posted otherwise. See BLM recreation ↗.
Permits and lotteries
Most camping in New Mexico doesn't need a special permit beyond your campsite reservation. Some wilderness areas, rivers and busy trailheads do; check the managing agency before you go.
Fishing and hunting licences
Licences for New Mexico are sold by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish ↗, online or at local retailers. Rules and seasons differ by species and water, so check before you go.
Passes
The America the Beautiful pass covers entrance fees at national parks and many federal lands in New Mexico. State parks usually sell their own day or annual passes; see New Mexico State Parks.
Best time to camp in New Mexico
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the sweet spots. Summer heat in low deserts is dangerous; head to higher elevations instead.
Questions
How do I book a state park campsite in New Mexico?
Book through New Mexico State Parks. Popular parks and summer weekends sell out early, so reserve as soon as your dates are set.
Is there free camping in New Mexico?
Yes. Most national forest land and BLM land in New Mexico allows free dispersed camping, usually up to 14 days, away from developed campgrounds. Check local rules and fire restrictions.
Do I need a permit to camp in New Mexico?
Usually not beyond a campsite reservation. Some wilderness areas and rivers need permits; check the managing agency.
Packing checklists
Nearby states (Southwest)
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