New Mexico Has Launched Lifetime Park Pass for Resident Veterans

In a significant expansion of benefits for those who have served, the State of New Mexico has officially implemented the Lifetime Veteran Pass for its resident veterans, granting free and unlimited access to all state parks. The pass, established by House Bill 161, went into effect on July 1, 2025, and is a perpetual acknowledgment of the sacrifice made by the state’s veterans.

The East Mountain News makes this reminder as the state celebrates Veterans Day, with officials reminding all eligible veterans to claim their new lifetime benefit.

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A New Era of Access for Veterans

The Lifetime Veteran Pass replaces previous limited-time or disability-rated passes and is available to all verified New Mexico resident veterans. It covers:

• Unlimited Free Day-Use
• Unlimited Free Camping Access
• Utility Fees at all State Parks Division-operated locations.

“This is a meaningful way to honor the men and women who have served our nation,” said State Parks Director Toby Velasquez. “By granting them free access to our stunning natural landscapes, we are providing places for recreation, relaxation, and connecting with the healing power of New Mexico’s outdoors.”

The benefit applies to over 30 state parks, from the fishing havens of Navajo Lake to the rugged beauty of City of Rocks.

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How to Apply

The program is a joint effort between the State Parks Division and the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services (NMDVS). Veterans must apply through the NMDVS to verify their residency and service status.

Key Application Details:

• Eligibility: Must be a verified military veteran and a New Mexico resident.
• What it Covers: Day-use, standard camping, and utility fees.
• What is NOT Covered: Reservation fees charged by the central reservation system (typically $3.00 to $10.00 per booking), group sites, cabins, or yurts.
• Application Process: Contact the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services (NMDVS) for the application and required documentation, which typically includes a copy of a DD-214 or equivalent service document and proof of New Mexico residency.

NMDVS Contact: 📞 1-866-433-8387 📧 vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov 🌐 www.nmdvs.org

Officials note that processing times can vary, and veterans who walk in with a completed application may receive their pass on the same day. Over 6,000 veterans have already claimed their lifetime passes since the program’s July launch.

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Changes to Other Passes

The introduction of the Lifetime Veteran Pass has streamlined other park access programs:

• The previous Active-Duty Military/Veteran Annual Camping Pass has been converted into the Active-Duty Military Annual Camping Pass for active-duty residents only. New Mexico resident veterans no longer need to purchase this annual pass.
• Existing passes for disabled veterans will continue to be honored until their expiration date in 2026, after which those veterans will transition to the new Lifetime Veteran Pass.

The new hang-tag pass is non-transferable and is valid only when the veteran is present. State Parks and the NMDVS encourage all eligible service members to take advantage of this new, well-deserved benefit.