ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Visitors to the Cibola National Forest and adjacent Kiowa and Rita Blanca National Grasslands can expect to see changes in recreational fees starting May 13, 2024. The adjustment, prompted by increasing maintenance and operational costs, aims to improve the quality and sustainability of visitor facilities.
Passed in 2004, the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act enables the Forest Service to retain 95 percent of the revenue generated at recreational sites. According to information provided by the National Forest Service, funding is essential for a wide range of maintenance tasks including trash collection, septic services, and upkeep of high-use trails and campsites.
Following extensive public outreach from 2019 to 2022, the Forest Service incorporated community feedback into the final fee structure, which was approved by both the Northern and Southern New Mexico Resource Advisory Councils. The Southwestern Regional Forester also reviewed and approved these changes, ensuring that fees remain reasonable and publicly acceptable.
The new fee structure will be introduced in phases, starting with Mount Taylor and Sandia Ranger Districts on May 13, and extending to Magdalena, Mountainair Ranger Districts, and the Kiowa and Rita Blanca National Grasslands by September 8, 2024.
Under the new fee structure, day-use rates will rise from $3 to $5. Single family campsites, previously priced between $5 and $7, will now cost $10 per night, and equestrian campsites will see an increase from $7 to $12 per night. Fees for some group picnic and overnight areas will also adjust, depending on the amenities and capacity of the sites.
Visitors are advised to check the status of sites online at the Cibola National Forest recreational page or by contacting ranger district offices directly. Travelers should always check local weather forecasts and road conditions at nmroads.com before venturing out.
For more information, contact the ranger district offices or the Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands Supervisor’s Office at 505-346-3900.