Mark Brown, NM State Parks Superintendent/Ranger, Bluewater Lake State Park. Baghdad, Iraq 2008 (United States Air Force). (Courtesy photo)

 

 

Santa Fe, NM – The State Parks Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) is giving back to local veterans, current military, and their dependents for their service with free entry to any New Mexico State Park on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

“We want to encourage our active-duty military personnel and veterans to explore the many recreational opportunities that their New Mexico State Parks offer without worrying about paying any fees,” said Toby Velasquez, State Parks director, in a press release. “They deserve a day to relax, whether it’s taking in the fresh air, trying a new outdoor experience, or having fun doing something they love like hiking, fishing, or boating.”

Any New Mexico resident who provides satisfactory proof that they are currently serving or have served in the United States armed forces, and the resident’s spouse and dependent children are entitled to free use of any park on Veterans Day, including the waiving of all day use, camping, or other fees.

In partnership with the New Mexico Department of Veteran Services, the State Parks Division also honors New Mexico veterans who have a 50%, or greater, service-connected disability with an annual day-use pass and one three-day camping pass per year, the release said.

For more information on the Disabled Veterans Program log onto our website at https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/or call 1-888-NMPARKS (1-888-667-2757).