This may be our last summer camping in New Mexico State Parks and that makes us very sad. NOTE: It is my understanding that you will be able to purchase the ACP at current prices until January 1, 2025. Any reservations made prior to 01.01.25 will also be honored at the current rate. But please verify that information through your own research, and check for their official updates when released. *NEW MEXICO STATE PARK REVISED FEE RECOMMENDATIONS* Meeting Schedule - www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/public-meetings/ and Revised Recommendations - www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/Revised-Fee-Recommendations-Summary.pdf *TO LEAVE A TIP FOR THIS VIDEO* Click the $Thanks$ icon underneath this video - OR - *PayPal Contributions*-paypal.me/DebraDickinson *Debra's Books* www.debradickinson.com/books and on Amazon - www.amazon.com/author/debradickinson *PAPERBACK | KINDLE | AUDIBLE and iPhone AUDIOBOOKS* *Author Events* www.debradickinson.com/events *Patreon* - www.patreon.com/debradickinson Join the KOKO Fam today for as little as $1/month. *My SPRING STORE Merchandise* - debradickinson.shop *AMAZON* Things I own and recommend - www.amazon.com/shop/debradoesrvlife Shop for other items using my affiliate link, free to you - amzn.to/3r3Zp3t *STICKER MULE* You get $10 store credit and I get $10 applied to my account. bit.ly/stickermule10debradickinson *Harvest Hosts* gr3f.co/c/53807/A4hst 15% discount to you, $15 to me *ADDITIONAL LINKS* Website-debradickinson.com/ Debra's Instagram-instagram.com/authordebradickinson/ Bandit's Instagram-instagram.com/banditthenomadwonderdog/ Please be sure to Like, Subscribe, Ring the Bell, Share and Comment. THANK YOU! SEE YOU DOWN THE ROAD! *MUSIC by EPIDEMIC SOUND*
I am a New Mexico resident. And I think this is very unfortunate. Sad really. But I am not at all surprised. You have to understand our state is horribly managed from the top. Our education system is among the worst in the country. Actually, it is usually THE worst. Our crime is out of control. I could go on and on. I've been here most of my 65 years. It's a shame that such a beautiful state is governed so poorly. But the people have spoken at the ballot box, time and time again. They get what they vote for.
Or Did ? They ....Over Here in CaLif i' really Think The Count iS SeverLy Tampered With, Dang i' Was PLanning This 4, 2025, Seems Everthings Going 😢Down.
@@bryanmathew2079 There is absolutely no doubt in my mind. We have "mystery" voter ballot boxes come in late on election night if ever things do get tight. So there is absolutely zero representation now at the federal level for conservative folks in New Mexico. And essentially the same is true for state representatives. How did this happen? Albuquerque's south valley was Gerrymandered into the extreme southern portion of the state, which is very conservative.
you forgot to mention the arroyos filled with garbage; uniquely New Mexico and you can't blame anyone but the people. And how about Southeastern New Mexico where those wonderful oil field workers throw trash all over the highway to " own the libs".Yep, real fine state you have there...
Thank you for this information and your insights. I was blessed to have enjoyed non-resident NMSP ACP from Oct 2022 into 2023. It confirmed New Mexico is indeed a Land of Enchantment for me. My life journey has taken me elsewhere for now but I do hope to return. I keep my expired annual sticker on my windshield as a cherished memento of my New Mexico journey. Happy Trails! ~ Mike ~
Wow! Mike! It is a pleasure to meet you and thank you for the super thanks. That means a lot to me, on many levels. I agree … NM is very special. Blessings to you on your journey, and thanks again!
I get going up on their prices, but to me, the $600.00 seems extreme, and what I hear is, we don't want outsiders using our state parks. I know all of us spent $$ in local establishments while we were camping in those parks.🤷♀️
When was the last time they raised fees? If it’s been a number of years then people need to be glad that for years they’ve got such a great rate. Expenses have in erased for everyone in musing the operations for the state and its personnel.
Debra thank you, and Frug too, for staying on top of the park updates. I am so happy I purchased the pass last year. Hoping to catch up with you two in the very near future. I need to order some things b4 I get back on the road. ✌️💛🤗
This is much over due. The non daily use fees are yearly. There is abuse by out of state campers and RV. I live in the area of city of Rocks, and two other state parks. We get snow birds who use the annual fees, spending six months in these parks. These parks are well kept, have showers, laundry, water/sewer connections sites, and some have dump stations. The snow birds stay from October through April. These parks are full. State residents at times don't have access or can find a site to stay a couple for a night or two.
For the most part, I agree and said so in the video that the fee increases are way overdue. However, I have yet to stay in a NM park that was 💯 full, including the ones in your area (which I love). The reason is that people are no-shows and don’t cancel. The park websites state that a reservation will be forfeited for no-shows but I have yet to see that enforced. It makes me sad to see sites sitting empty. Those campers you’re talking about that legitimately stay two weeks? That’s revenue for the parks and local economy. The abuse I’ve seen (sneaking in, staying longer than allowed, and “living” in the parks, etc.) has been by people that are going to keep doing it anyway. That has nothing to do with snowbirds or those of us from out of state that abide by the rules.
The population of New Mexico is around 2.5 million (as of 2020). I traveled the Parks this past March and the VAST majority of campers were from out of state. The people that were residents seem to only stay the day, How many actually stay more than a day or two before they have to go back to work? There are ghost towns after crumbling towns in NM. Out of staters spend money in the towns they visit. Santa Rosa State Park for example....in March, it was empty. We buy groceries, laundry amongst other things. These parks are going to be empty after this takes effect. My question is, my pass is good until March 2025. Will I be able to camp free at the primitive sites still? I am grateful I got to see the parks I did see, I just wanted to go back and see more. 😥
Ty for this. Agreed!! 💯❣️ As for your current ACP, it is my understanding that any annual passes purchased prior to 1.1.25 (at the old/current price) will be honored, but please do your own research to verify. And, keep watch on the links (my pinned comment and video description) for any changes they might announce. Best wishes and happy camping!
NM campground fees have always been very low and quite a bargain. We wondered how they could charge such a small amount. We are full time campers and every other state park we have been to is quite a bit more, around $30 to $40 per night, some with just electric.
It seems to be an epidemic of both private and public entities shooting themselves in the foot through greed over common sense in these last days. If they would just raise the rates by a respectable amount think how much money they would make, but instead their greed will cause most of us to avoid spending our money in their State Parks, but also in their state as a whole.
I was considering a Nov. - March 2025 winter going from one NM State Park to the next one, but those plans are on hold. A reasonable rate increase is needed, but the $15 hit per day for electricity and water is a bit much. The most I paid for metered electricity was about $3 per day for an extended stay in Arizona and nothing for water. With the $600 pass, plus the new considered other charges, the monthly cost, if used continuously for 4 months, is about $550 to $600. Has a study been done to see how the increase will impact the use of the NM State Parks? And if NM has done that study, is there another study how the park increased fees will affect local businesses to the parks? Why a move to a 7-day maximum? Has that been studied and if so, what are the reasons for that move? COE parks are still on a 14-day maximum. NM is a gorgeous state to explore and an increase is necessary, but with those increases I will look elsewhere or travel to COE parks, which are almost non-existent in the west. If you have a senior interagency pass, you get half price at COE parks. I do love New Mexico!
If you buy the pass at cirrent prices for Nov 2024 wouldn't it still be good for 12 months, through end of Oct 2025? I'd think this timing would be ideal so you can get in under the current pricing system.Or am I missing something?
I have so enjoyed your videos of the NMSP's. City of Rocks is one of my all time favorites and I am so blessed to have been there during KOKO Fest 2021. So sad to hear of this door closing but perhaos another will open for new adventures.
For a few years now I've read that some get frustrated with finding spaces at NMSP's because so many with passes have taken spaces for the full two weeks. I think the new fee structure, while expensive for some, will insure that most will have accessibility, especially in the peak months. My biggest concern was losing the primitive camping with the lack of an annual pass. Glad to see they're keeping the pass and rather than looking at it as $600 I look at it as $375 more than what I would've paid anyways. If you take advantage of your RV's ability to be off grid then you can still enjoy a beautiful park at a very reasonable price.
I agree with most of what you shared. Thank you! But as far as 2 week reservations with the ACP making sites not available, I don’t agree. And the reason is that we rarely see the parks 💯 full. The sites that are left empty are usually because people were a no-show and didn’t cancel. On their websites, the parks say the reservation for an empty site will be canceled after 4P but I’ve never seen that enforced. Off grid is great! Pending weather. 😘
I'm a NM resident and was just noting that New Mexico is really working to keep people out, they are also pricing most of our residents out. I wonder what is up. I've seen Realtors on YT telling people why not to move to Albuquerque. They noted mosquitos, and cockroaches. Mosquitos just showed up last summer, Thanks to Mr. Gates. We have less problems than most cities, I would think. Thank you for this news, as disturbing as it is. We need real change, and not just here in NM. I do wonder what the true motivation, besides greed, really is. Thank you for sharing. I do hope we find freedom soon, as many won't last this kind of financial assault. You'll be missed.
i Know What's Your Saying in CentraL CaLif a ReaLitor Comes on the radio ads Saying Homes Ownership are affordabLe@ Like $350,000 i'm Thinking Really its a $125,000 House, it's Gotton WorLd Wide Crazy, bye
@@edie4321 If they start believing social media videos, then they are too dense to move anywhere. It also makes me angry that there are those who use not only our state, but others to nake money on RUclips, Tik Tok, etc.
@@winterinbloom, I'm fully aware of that. We are being priced out of our homes intentionally. NM will soon be remembered as being in the US. I got a feeling. Are they pushing to keep people out of your state, too?
As Canadians who love traveling in the southern states during the winter, and as retired, we too are on a fixed income. We LOVE NM! We have never bought a state park pass for any state. But, we have enjoyed an occasional state park campsite in NM and are sad that this will most likely prohibit us from doing so in the future.
State Parks and National Parks were originally as free access, to enjoy, for locals, and citizens. Well you can see where that has gone. Tax dollars and funds from State/Federal sources. What a concept beautiful recreational National lands for the People. To New Mexico what a beautiful vast State.
I'm a native New Mexico resident and I say it's about time New Mexico State Government got serious about increasing the funding revenues for our state parks program. This approach is basic business that has been missing for too damn long. It doesn't raise state taxes and it reduces the dependency on oil and gas revenues. Far more out-of-state vehicles are at the NM campgrounds than New Mexicans. These fee increases will bring in much needed revenue to help cover the cost of upkeep, improvements and pay staff enough to make a decent living. Travelers will still come to NM they always have and always will.
How do you figure you will increase your revenue? If it’s mostly out of state people staying why would they ? Many will simply stay in AZ or move on to other locations. I think you will break even or loose money plus local businesses will loose money from decreased tourism. Just seems like more blue state mismanagement.
You are not camping, you are living in the state parks. Residents, weekend campers have a hard time getting in to enoy the parks. A better idea would be to have a 2 week limit with a 2 week out of park time and not raise the price so much.
I’ll state it again … I have yet to see a park full … even on weekends, even during holidays. It’s partly because people don’t cancel and NMSP is not enforcing cancellations for no shows. We are only in NM for a short period of time and DO NOT live in the parks. We abide by all rules and will continue to do so … unlike many locals we’ve seen that come out for the weekend and literally trash sites and trails. Your idea might work for the issues the parks are having but a park super told us just yesterday and confirmed that the issues are not from out-of-state campers. I hope a solution is found that actually helps the parks. NM is magical.
I live in Roswell and it is inexpensive to buy here. You might think buying and have a piece of mud to Basecamp from. I'm building out an ambulance to travel in. It's easy to park anywhere in and around towns. I've thought about using the state parks but even as a resident, your story has discouraged me from that. When I go to Santa Fe I usually drive up the ski basin and park at a trail head or a turnout. But I don't usually camp for more than a few days. I heard Captain is inexpensive to buy there also.
Thank you for the information. Pay more and get less. Figures This will not affect me as much as it has you because it’s unlikely that I would visit often enough for an annual pass to be an advantage. I’ve been enjoying my Texas annual pass, but have been considering expanding my travels. The New Mexico increases are not enough to deter my visit, but it will definitely disciplined planning on my meager budget. I can understand that like everyone in the world that their expenses have increased also. While some increase would seem fair, this seems more like a planned deterrent to me.
I have confirmed with New Mexico State Parks Office and Yuma BLM Oficce. The proposed 2025 for LTVA Sept thru April is $600. Same proposal for New Mexico State Park non resident annual pass. From my understanding only. Significant price increase for hookups, as well. Very disappointing
That's a huge increase. I suppose it all comes down to how frequently you use NM state parks, or at least camp there. For the _vast_ majority of people, folks will opt out and only pay when they actually visit. I would have done that at the lower level, so I'm not the right person for this pass (I live several hours away from NM and I haven't explored all of my state (Colorado) yet either).
She’s a lot better than the last one who destroyed the mental health system in NM. She closed down all the mental health clinics because of “fraud”. Turns out there was no fraud, and NM was left with a decimated system. People died because her actions.
I spent one year traveling in New Mexico with the pass and loved it. I will not be buying another pass at the new rates. If th3y don't want our business then they can have their wish. I don't like the reservation system either I don't always travel by my computer. Home base in the wilderness is my thing now. No computers and no one telling me what to do. Good luck New Mexico, you are going to miss all of us!
At $600 they are sure going to price themselves out of a lot of people buying into that. I am a resident of Nevada and I just bought their state park pass for $250. I hope I’ll be able to use it this coming year.😊
I just purchased the annual pass the 1st of May. I watched all your videos on the parks. Does that mean even though I've already purchased the pass, that after the 1st of the year 2025 will I have to pay the higher fees for electric ,water? It's so sad. I sure hope there are a lot of improvements at these parks for the increases . Thankyou for the info.
Dang, I'm thankful that the annual pass in Texas is $70 regardless of residency. It waves the entrance fees and gets you 1/2 off the second night, and 10% off at the camp stores.
I am former TPWD. Your numbers are correct (for now). However, even with the pass, (on average) TX remains one of the most expensive state parks in the country.
I hope this passes, I can’t believe how hard it is for a New Mexican to camp in his or her own state. All of west Texas has taken over all of our small mountain towns as well.
Not once have I seen any of the NMSPs full - even on weekends and holidays. One of the problems is people not canceling and then being a no-show. As far as the towns, I sure don’t see local shops asking for NM IDs only before taking money. And, any one can make reservations - including NM residents. I don’t believe for one minute that NM residents are not able to get a site. The small mountain NMSP where we are now has 14 vacant sites.
@@authordebradickinson just got back from a weekend trip 95% out of state plates and no spots available. People with U-Haul trailers, so called camping.
Another NM resident here. I hope it passes too. The parks are being overwhelmed and this increase is more than fair and remains a good deal for an annual pass.
I stopped in a forest ranger station and got my access pass for free, I'm disabled, they told me they changed the pass fees for disabled, veterans get them free.
Sorry to hear this Debra. I know y'all loved being in NM. It sucks for all the full timers but unfortunately it looks like everything is going up. I really wanted to take a month and show Rhonda around New Mexico. Y'all stay safe out there.
True, but that is a system NM has a contract with and those fees are not set by or go to NM. A lot of states use RA (some don’t). Currently, the reservation fees with RA range from $4 to $12, depending on the length of stay.
So then the reservation fee is with RA and should not increase. So that brings the total to $62 (12 reserve fee) $50 a month camp fee ($600/12 months) a month to camp one 7 day week. Still not bad. Many of sites have own water so that is where it will get ya. So that brings total now to $97 to stay one wk with the reservation plus water. Or $13 a nite. Worth it not sure. After you have been forced to boondock on BLM for 3 wks out of a month $13 a nite sounds pretty good for a shower. I like the parks for being around people also.
Good evening friend. Thank you for the information. Well stated. It seems like it's gonna hurt a lot of small businesses who are losing out on the income that out of state campers bring. That's a shame. I hope you're doing well friend and having a good evening. 13:02
I think they are targeting your group: Those out of state retired or living fulltime in rvs. . very sad to hear that..i had hoped to do that in 2025... Way too giant of an increase..a slight increase would of been better. They want to stop nomads..
I was planning to tour NM in the near future. I'll cancel those plans and go elsewhere. So, I guess they win. One less out of state family in their overcrowded state.
Thank you getting all that information. They have now made NM state parks close to the expensive thousand trails camping pass or the coast to coast home campground annual fees. I paid 500 last year for maintenance fee for east coast membership I could not use because I wanted to see the west.
Day use fees are posted at all state parks. That is 5 dollars per vehicle. This will go up to out of state residents. N.M state parks will still be cheaper than most. What N.M is trying to stop is people using the ACP as an alternative to living at the state parks. We also have issues of people not paying day use fees at all. The rest rooms are used and abused by homeless, drug use, people use them for laundry. If you want to help, call these actions out. When you see someone littering tell them, same as vandalism. Its hard to stay on top of this. Parks are shirt handed as is.
At $600 they are sure going to price themselves out of a lot of people buying into that. I am a resident of Nevada and I just bought their state park pass for $250. I hope I’ll be able to use it this coming year.😊 And it is $10 for power and only about one or two state parks and we can only be in a park for seven days in the 30 calendar days … So like July 4 to August 4 then you can come back. So with the pass you’d pay $10 for electricity and you get the water for free and the dump station is on the way out
Being a resident of New Mexico (I jokingly refer to myself as a New Texican) for several years now, I have observed that New Mexico (on various government/agency levels) has an unfortunate way of shooting itself in the feet. Some say increased fees are good and don't raise taxes (a fee, however, is a tax on a service). This attitude of New Mexico for New Mexicans is a lark because most of the employees at the national labs are not native residents. If the national labs (and other government facilities) weren't in New Mexico, the state economy would be down the toilet. Urban and rural growth is very slow because expansion is limited by reservations/pueblos. The emphasis on social programs/benefits results in increased taxes and cost of living (for example, theft forgiveness of $500 adding to that). Clean needles programs (I've almost stepped on a few discarded needles because addicts aren't in the frame of mind to place used needles in receptacles) and various programs catering to the drug addicted population have created a boon of addicts and beggars, which are homeless. I was almost assaulted by an addict who was desperate for cash. I know this is about park impact fees but for some considering a move to New Mexico there are things to consider. The health care system is, to be charitable, less than adequate. If you have a specialized medical condition, like I do, you can wait years for treatment. I'm having to travel back to Texas to pay out of pocket for treatment (goodbye retirement savings) because it's been a two year wait...and I can't wait any longer (Covid didn't have anything to do with it - there was a six month wait for an initial visit in 2018). I have a friend who had to travel to Texas for cancer treatment because of botched care here. Anyway, my local residents across the street are a working class family and just came back from a short camping trip. They aren't going to be happy about increased fees for New Mexicans. Increased costs affect everyone who is in the position of having to consider every nickel. My husband and I were considering buying a small camper (going from two vehicles to one)...but I think we'll pass. Once I found out about the 10 to 15 year rule, I developed considerable reservations. Now with increased fuel prices and increasing fees at various levels, camping isn't an attractive activity anymore. ☹
Oh yikes. If they were going to increase, they should've gone to maybe $350 or $400, but not $600. I'm a NM resident and feel this would be a mistake if this increase goes through.
@@scamphound1892 There are two national parks in New Mexico, White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns but they have no camping. There are two major National Moments Bandelier and Chaco Canyon that have campgrounds.
This is great!! As a resident/ home grown looking forward to seeing the funds being used for the restoration, maintenance and staff. This is similar to the hunting costs for out of state individuals. New Mexico is beautiful and deserves to be respected financially.
Absolutely! I agree with you that NM State Parks needs and deserves increased funds, and I said that in the video. It is delusional however to think that this new fee structure will fix the current problems NM State Parks has.
The problem you'll experience though is that there will be fewer campers, such as the ones in this video. At the end of the day NM might experience a net loss in the income.
I totally agree that any price increase is hard to accept. However, as a NM resident, I understand the need to do this. We always complain about how many parks are "little Texas". In fact we frequently ask "if Texas is so great, why are they always here?" If we go to Texas it costs us so much more than parks here in NM, so bringing parity between the states seems reasonable. But again, I never want prices to go up because it does make our traveling plans more difficult.
I shared in the video that I absolutely agree NMSPs needed to go up on their rates. I camp in TX, NM, every state actually - coast to coast, border to border. This rate increase does not bring NM into parity. It puts them as one of the most expensive state park systems in the country.
@@authordebradickinson Yes, Welcome to the socialist state of NM. Gas prices are due to go up significantly soon due to an additional tax increase as well.
That is correct. They are planning on $10 a day for electricity, $5 for water and another $5 if it has a sewer connection. So, ultimately, unless you're staying in a completely unimproved site it could be $600 plus $20/day.
It’s extremely unfortunate they didn’t implement gradual but still monetarily beneficial NM Parks’ increases over the years. The annual pass increase is quite radical and will unfortunately keep a lot of good people and financial contributors out. I can understand if their guidelines were so lax that they couldn’t ensure the undesirables or disrespectful behaviors were curtailed. But come on NM, be more reasonable and not so cost prohibitive to good people wanting to enjoy and contribute financially to your state. There is a logical and happy medium to protect your parks.
Well said. A classic case of cutting off your nose to spite your face. In my opinion, this reflects a lack of awareness of other options campers have in the state.
I'm glad I bought mine last year and it has paid for itself even though I have not spent nearly as much time in the state as you guys. But there are still so many parks and parts of the state I haven't seen. Are they going to stop selling them in the interim until January? Mine expires in September and I had planned to get a new one 😢. I wonder if they wiuld prorate them for people ourchasing before January, or just not let you buy a new one until January?
It is my understanding that you will be able to purchase the ACP at current prices until January 1, 2025. Any reservations made prior to 01.01.25 will also be honored at the current rate. But please verify that information through your own research, and check for their official updates when released.
The “super amazing deal” that so many of us have enjoyed at New Mexico State Parks had to come to an end. Many state residents and out of state annual pass holders have been literally living in our state parks for nearly free. Everyone knew that it was just absurdly cheap. The new fee structure is fair, and much more affordable than the initial proposal. $600 is steep for an out of state pass, but what no one is saying, is that most states do not even offer any sort of annual camping pass. As a proud New Mexican, I will continue to camp in our amazing state parks. It will still be a bargain, compared to most other states.
This is incorrect. I am former TPWD and can tell you that most states absolutely have annual passes. I said clearly in my video that an increase was warranted and deserved. At $600 for non-residents plus $10-$20 per depending on site amenities, it will put NM at the top tier of most expensive parks. I didn’t say that was wrong, I simply stated it puts it out of reach for me and at that price is no longer feasible. Happy camping. I love NM!
Those are some steep fee increases. I’m planning to travel soon and I was hoping I could camp throughout New Mexico since I’ve never spent much time there. I’ve only driven through. I wonder why they are going to increase the fees so much and so suddenly.
I read about this previously and it's to bad that NM is catching up to most other states on charges. But.....I'm not sure where you can camp for less than $35 a night. ??? I have found a few city campgrounds in NE or IA that are lower or even FREE but that is rare and you can't generally stay more than a few nights at them. I guess BLM land out west is the next best on low cost. Maybe work-kamping is the answer. ??
I just got home from City of Rocks in New Mexico and it was such a great place to camp. The annual pass is incredibly expensive in New Mexico and I disagree that State parks are primarily for residents. But you are forgetting they include the entrance fee in the camping fee so you DO N OT have to have an annual pass. Camping in New Mexico is very cheap compared to other states. An increase to $600 is very steep but look at other States.
Yes, the day use fee (entry fee) is included in the ACP as is the cost of the actual overnight site. I covered that in the video. You are correct that you do not have to have the ACP to camp. Without it, you pay for the campsite plus any amenities - again, as I covered in the video. As far as other states, the new overnight camping fees for NM are similar, but the rate for the non-resident annual pass is not. TX is going up to $95, NV is $250, and there is everything in between for other states. I will say it again … I agree an increase was needed, well deserved, and too long in coming. The day use and per night rates may be similar, but the annual pass fees and the stay limits are not. To me, the message is loud and clear that they do not want $$ from tourism and those of us that spend thousands of dollars every year in NM. That makes me sad on many levels because I love NM very much.
When I first learned about New Mexico annual passes it was from a video about 6 months ago and they mentioned the possible price increase but he said that as long as you buy a pass before July 1st then your grandfathered into the prior rates Is that still so?
I shared in the video what I know, and was told by the NMSP authorities. The Bureau Chief said in the online meeting that the fee increases would be effective 1.1.25. So IDK about this July 1st info. I suggest you look at the links in my pinned comment or video description and contact them to verify.
Sad for many non resident campers. I wonder what their ratio of resident to non resident passes are for this year. You will find new beautiful places - you guys have a knack for finding great spots.
How sad for many out of state travelers. When you're relaying important information, sorry you have to defend yourself, but you do it really well. :) You rock! Take care.
Unfortunately our State Parks are being "lived in" by out of state folks for weeks at a time, who stay in the area for months. Some come every year and a primary reason is the low cost. The lovely parks and low rates bring floods of non-residents, paying less per day than local cost of living (hotels or rentals) to their advantage, so they stay..... Many these days are basically not vacation travelers but low income squatters on fixed income who abuse the low rates system to avoid moving on.... In the winter they fill up the desert sites and every long hot summer they FILL THE MOUNTAIN CAMPSITES. We residents suffer through heat, wind, long distances between conveniences, and poor local economies because we LOVE IT HERE. Limited number of supported camping sites are occupied so fully that locals find it difficult to enjoy during our limited vacation and weekend times. Snow Birds are visitors who act like they live here BUT aren't invested. Many bring or mail order their necessities so don't actually support our local economy except the grocery stores. All are welcome to visit. Why should our public spaces provide "cheap" long term living sites for weeks or months every year for you?
Discussed with several locals who camp. Seems biggest problem is site reservations that block out 2 weeks at a time so others can't get a reservation, then are a no show. Perhaps an up front charge when reserving, then applied when arrive, is appropriate? Also, if total use is down due to higher charges, less maintenance costs to the state. Might not get improvement but current facilities less stressed.
@susanfrary6880 … Paragraph 1 - It cannot be considered squatting when the full rate is paid and all of the rules, laws, regulations and guidelines are adhered to. I said in the video that NM was overdue and deserved increased fees. That, however, is going to do nothing to deter those squatting and camping in parks or public lands illegally. That issue needs other solutions. And, you are 💯 wrong about the mountain campsites being filled. I have yet to see that happen in any of them. Sites are left vacant because people don’t cancel. As far as there being nothing left for NM residents, I am currently in a high mountain NMSP campground. Here’s the count … 2 NM license plates, 9 non-NM plates and FOURTEEN empty sites!! Get your facts straight before you start spouting fake news and propaganda. Paragraph 2 - I have found the people of NM to be warm, kind and welcoming … unlike you. And I can promise you that you do not love NM more than me - the culture, history, beauty and nature speaks to my soul. The likes of you will not dampen my enthusiasm for moving here when I choose to quit traveling. The only time I have seen your beautiful parks disrespected and trashed has been by locals while vacationing or partying on weekends. Paragraph 3 - More fake news and propaganda. You walk through any town near a state park in the mountains in the summer and the stores, shops and restaurants are packed with non-residents spending money. That’s why local businesses showed up in droves at the public hearings to express concern over the loss of revenue with the proposed fee changes. In addition to that, there are very few places near NMSPs to get deliveries. So, once again, you’re writing nonsense that isn’t based on facts. Paragraph 4 - Again, I support increased rates for NMSPs that were long overdue. However, it should make zero difference how long someone camps anywhere as long as they pay the amount required and follow all laws, rules, regulations and guidelines, including term limits. Why on earth would you think they shouldn’t? Take your righteous entitlement and incorrect information based on ridiculous suppositions somewhere else. I hope others reading this understand that you are the exception to NM hospitality and not the norm! As for your 2nd comment that you left, it sounds like you have some people around you that are solution-oriented and get what the real issues are. Kudos to them. Maybe try following their lead.
Yep. I’ve been fulltime on the road 24/7 for 9 years now and spent the 1st five years doing just that. And … I’m guessing appx 60% of the places I used to go are now closed. I get it, and understand the reasons, but it’s not as simple as it seems anymore.
I understand because I live here the State Parks need money for maintenance. However, I think with increase they are going to lose money and hurt businesses. Just look with just you and Frugal they will lose $500 plus camping fees. Plus all the businesses you spend money are going to lose. Times that by 10.000 or more out of state people that came here every year and they will go in the hole. Not to count the locals who will not be able to afford the new rates. Just had to put in my rant.
I'm so sorry that NM doesn't want "our kind" at their parks! You will find other parks that are just as good if not better to stay at. If you're gonna pay THAT MUCH for a state park, you'd be better off staying at an RV park with full-hookups. As you already know, when God shuts one door, he opens a bigger one!!
If you are in NM campgrounds a lot, it isn't much per day. If you aren't, is the day rate much different than other states? If you don't need hookups, you still have a lot of BLM land.
I have been camping in NMSPs for a few months a year. NM def needed an increase in fees but the new costs puts NM near the top now as one of the most expensive. I don't need hookups, and have boondocked and dry docked all over the country. Not sure where all I will go next year. Stay tuned! 👍🏼😍
I bought my pass and I stayed 2 weeks at Bluewater Lake for free and I am at Navajo Lake for 2 weeks now for free. That is why I bought the pass. I guess I will not be ever going back to New Mexico
Thanks for the update. I got disgusted with NM when they gave us 8 hr notice to get out Mar. 13, 2020. It was cold and snowing. Like they cared if we got sick. Commies run that state, sadly.
The info hasn't changed since we heard it from you on Patreon. UGH!! You still look sad, so I guess it's true, the state you love has big changes coming for you and Jana, and everyone who has enjoyed the ACP. I have been to New Mexico several times, but not just camping. I hope people will still be able to find a way to pay for their time in New Mexico and enjoy its beauty. Thank you for sharing this video. Be safe Hugs Love you guys
This may be our last summer camping in New Mexico State Parks and that makes us very sad.
NOTE: It is my understanding that you will be able to purchase the ACP at current prices until January 1, 2025. Any reservations made prior to 01.01.25 will also be honored at the current rate. But please verify that information through your own research, and check for their official updates when released.
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So is there a way we can buy the pass in December and use it for 2025 for I think you said $225 now for
non-resident
out of state camper? 😮
I am a New Mexico resident. And I think this is very unfortunate. Sad really. But I am not at all surprised. You have to understand our state is horribly managed from the top. Our education system is among the worst in the country. Actually, it is usually THE worst. Our crime is out of control. I could go on and on. I've been here most of my 65 years. It's a shame that such a beautiful state is governed so poorly. But the people have spoken at the ballot box, time and time again. They get what they vote for.
You hit the nail right on the head!
Same thing with CA. And to think he wants to run our country. What a shame for NM.
Or Did ? They ....Over Here in CaLif i' really Think The Count iS SeverLy Tampered With, Dang i' Was PLanning This 4, 2025, Seems Everthings Going 😢Down.
@@bryanmathew2079 There is absolutely no doubt in my mind. We have "mystery" voter ballot boxes come in late on election night if ever things do get tight. So there is absolutely zero representation now at the federal level for conservative folks in New Mexico. And essentially the same is true for state representatives. How did this happen? Albuquerque's south valley was Gerrymandered into the extreme southern portion of the state, which is very conservative.
you forgot to mention the arroyos filled with garbage; uniquely New Mexico and you can't blame anyone but the people. And how about Southeastern New Mexico where those wonderful oil field workers throw trash all over the highway to " own the libs".Yep, real fine state you have there...
I am so happy I got the park pass this year. I enjoyed staying at the parks (13 parks), while touring such a beautiful state.
Thank you for this information and your insights. I was blessed to have enjoyed non-resident NMSP ACP from Oct 2022 into 2023. It confirmed New Mexico is indeed a Land of Enchantment for me. My life journey has taken me elsewhere for now but I do hope to return. I keep my expired annual sticker on my windshield as a cherished memento of my New Mexico journey. Happy Trails! ~ Mike ~
Wow! Mike! It is a pleasure to meet you and thank you for the super thanks. That means a lot to me, on many levels. I agree … NM is very special. Blessings to you on your journey, and thanks again!
They are not business people and will be surprised that the increase did not bring in the additional funds that they were expecting
I get going up on their prices, but to me, the $600.00 seems extreme, and what I hear is, we don't want outsiders using our state parks. I know all of us spent $$ in local establishments while we were camping in those parks.🤷♀️
Exactly. 🥹
When was the last time they raised fees? If it’s been a number of years then people need to be glad that for years they’ve got such a great rate. Expenses have in erased for everyone in musing the operations for the state and its personnel.
Debra thank you, and Frug too, for staying on top of the park updates. I am so happy I purchased the pass last year. Hoping to catch up with you two in the very near future. I need to order some things b4 I get back on the road. ✌️💛🤗
It will be great to see you, Dubs!! Happy and safe travels (hopefully soon). 😍
@@authordebradickinson 💜
❤
This is much over due. The non daily use fees are yearly. There is abuse by out of state campers and RV. I live in the area of city of Rocks, and two other state parks. We get snow birds who use the annual fees, spending six months in these parks. These parks are well kept, have showers, laundry, water/sewer connections sites, and some have dump stations. The snow birds stay from October through April. These parks are full. State residents at times don't have access or can find a site to stay a couple for a night or two.
For the most part, I agree and said so in the video that the fee increases are way overdue. However, I have yet to stay in a NM park that was 💯 full, including the ones in your area (which I love). The reason is that people are no-shows and don’t cancel. The park websites state that a reservation will be forfeited for no-shows but I have yet to see that enforced. It makes me sad to see sites sitting empty. Those campers you’re talking about that legitimately stay two weeks? That’s revenue for the parks and local economy. The abuse I’ve seen (sneaking in, staying longer than allowed, and “living” in the parks, etc.) has been by people that are going to keep doing it anyway. That has nothing to do with snowbirds or those of us from out of state that abide by the rules.
The population of New Mexico is around 2.5 million (as of 2020). I traveled the Parks this past March and the VAST majority of campers were from out of state. The people that were residents seem to only stay the day, How many actually stay more than a day or two before they have to go back to work? There are ghost towns after crumbling towns in NM. Out of staters spend money in the towns they visit. Santa Rosa State Park for example....in March, it was empty. We buy groceries, laundry amongst other things. These parks are going to be empty after this takes effect. My question is, my pass is good until March 2025. Will I be able to camp free at the primitive sites still? I am grateful I got to see the parks I did see, I just wanted to go back and see more. 😥
Ty for this. Agreed!! 💯❣️
As for your current ACP, it is my understanding that any annual passes purchased prior to 1.1.25 (at the old/current price) will be honored, but please do your own research to verify. And, keep watch on the links (my pinned comment and video description) for any changes they might announce. Best wishes and happy camping!
NM campground fees have always been very low and quite a bargain. We wondered how they could charge such a small amount. We are full time campers and every other state park we have been to is quite a bit more, around $30 to $40 per night, some with just electric.
You can almost get a motel for that price.
I know of three other nomads and RV folks that love going to NM parks. Thanks for the information for out of state folks.
It seems to be an epidemic of both private and public entities shooting themselves in the foot through greed over common sense in these last days.
If they would just raise the rates by a respectable amount think how much money they would make, but instead their greed will cause most of us to avoid spending our money in their State Parks, but also in their state as a whole.
I don't think they will sell many non-resident passes at that price.
😢 it's getting very hard for some of us that are on a tight budget to camp anywhere.
So true.
Yes. Your lifestyle is being priced out of existence, making retirement bleaker for the rest of us.
Yup.
There is still free camping all over the place. I have property in AZ that offers free camping, but no hookups. @RidgeValleyRanch
Thanks for letting us know.. I had planned on New Mexico for next season but will now rethink this.
I was considering a Nov. - March 2025 winter going from one NM State Park to the next one, but those plans are on hold. A reasonable rate increase is needed, but the $15 hit per day for electricity and water is a bit much. The most I paid for metered electricity was about $3 per day for an extended stay in Arizona and nothing for water. With the $600 pass, plus the new considered other charges, the monthly cost, if used continuously for 4 months, is about $550 to $600. Has a study been done to see how the increase will impact the use of the NM State Parks? And if NM has done that study, is there another study how the park increased fees will affect local businesses to the parks? Why a move to a 7-day maximum? Has that been studied and if so, what are the reasons for that move? COE parks are still on a 14-day maximum. NM is a gorgeous state to explore and an increase is necessary, but with those increases I will look elsewhere or travel to COE parks, which are almost non-existent in the west. If you have a senior interagency pass, you get half price at COE parks. I do love New Mexico!
If you buy the pass at cirrent prices for Nov 2024 wouldn't it still be good for 12 months, through end of Oct 2025? I'd think this timing would be ideal so you can get in under the current pricing system.Or am I missing something?
I have so enjoyed your videos of the NMSP's. City of Rocks is one of my all time favorites and I am so blessed to have been there during KOKO Fest 2021. So sad to hear of this door closing but perhaos another will open for new adventures.
For a few years now I've read that some get frustrated with finding spaces at NMSP's because so many with passes have taken spaces for the full two weeks. I think the new fee structure, while expensive for some, will insure that most will have accessibility, especially in the peak months. My biggest concern was losing the primitive camping with the lack of an annual pass. Glad to see they're keeping the pass and rather than looking at it as $600 I look at it as $375 more than what I would've paid anyways. If you take advantage of your RV's ability to be off grid then you can still enjoy a beautiful park at a very reasonable price.
I agree with most of what you shared. Thank you! But as far as 2 week reservations with the ACP making sites not available, I don’t agree. And the reason is that we rarely see the parks 💯 full. The sites that are left empty are usually because people were a no-show and didn’t cancel. On their websites, the parks say the reservation for an empty site will be canceled after 4P but I’ve never seen that enforced. Off grid is great! Pending weather. 😘
I'm a NM resident and was just noting that New Mexico is really working to keep people out, they are also pricing most of our residents out. I wonder what is up. I've seen Realtors on YT telling people why not to move to Albuquerque. They noted mosquitos, and cockroaches. Mosquitos just showed up last summer, Thanks to Mr. Gates. We have less problems than most cities, I would think. Thank you for this news, as disturbing as it is. We need real change, and not just here in NM. I do wonder what the true motivation, besides greed, really is. Thank you for sharing. I do hope we find freedom soon, as many won't last this kind of financial assault. You'll be missed.
i Know What's Your Saying in CentraL CaLif a ReaLitor Comes on the radio ads Saying Homes Ownership are affordabLe@ Like $350,000 i'm Thinking Really its a $125,000 House, it's Gotton WorLd Wide Crazy, bye
I think the real motivation is control.
@@edie4321 If they start believing social media videos, then they are too dense to move anywhere. It also makes me angry that there are those who use not only our state, but others to nake money on RUclips, Tik Tok, etc.
Housing prices have gone way up in every state, it's not a New Mexico only thing.
@@winterinbloom, I'm fully aware of that. We are being priced out of our homes intentionally. NM will soon be remembered as being in the US. I got a feeling. Are they pushing to keep people out of your state, too?
As Canadians who love traveling in the southern states during the winter, and as retired, we too are on a fixed income. We LOVE NM! We have never bought a state park pass for any state. But, we have enjoyed an occasional state park campsite in NM and are sad that this will most likely prohibit us from doing so in the future.
And it going to 7 days instead of 14 days generates more cost for registration fees. Actually it will double it.
Thanks. This is helpful. I wonder what private RV Parks will cost?
State Parks and National Parks were originally as free access, to enjoy, for locals, and citizens. Well you can see where that has gone. Tax dollars and funds from State/Federal sources. What a concept beautiful recreational National lands for the People. To New Mexico what a beautiful vast State.
I'm a native New Mexico resident and I say it's about time New Mexico State Government got serious about increasing the funding revenues for our state parks program. This approach is basic business that has been missing for too damn long. It doesn't raise state taxes and it reduces the dependency on oil and gas revenues. Far more out-of-state vehicles are at the NM campgrounds than New Mexicans. These fee increases will bring in much needed revenue to help cover the cost of upkeep, improvements and pay staff enough to make a decent living. Travelers will still come to NM they always have and always will.
@@mrblueskynm3968 nope
How do you figure you will increase your revenue? If it’s mostly out of state people staying why would they ? Many will simply stay in AZ or move on to other locations. I think you will break even or loose money plus local businesses will loose money from decreased tourism. Just seems like more blue state mismanagement.
You are not camping, you are living in the state parks. Residents, weekend campers have a hard time getting in to enoy the parks. A better idea would be to have a 2 week limit with a 2 week out of park time and not raise the price so much.
I’ll state it again … I have yet to see a park full … even on weekends, even during holidays. It’s partly because people don’t cancel and NMSP is not enforcing cancellations for no shows. We are only in NM for a short period of time and DO NOT live in the parks. We abide by all rules and will continue to do so … unlike many locals we’ve seen that come out for the weekend and literally trash sites and trails. Your idea might work for the issues the parks are having but a park super told us just yesterday and confirmed that the issues are not from out-of-state campers. I hope a solution is found that actually helps the parks. NM is magical.
I live in Roswell and it is inexpensive to buy here. You might think buying and have a piece of mud to Basecamp from. I'm building out an ambulance to travel in. It's easy to park anywhere in and around towns. I've thought about using the state parks but even as a resident, your story has discouraged me from that. When I go to Santa Fe I usually drive up the ski basin and park at a trail head or a turnout. But I don't usually camp for more than a few days. I heard Captain is inexpensive to buy there also.
Thank you for the information.
Pay more and get less.
Figures
This will not affect me as much as it has you because it’s unlikely that I would visit often enough for an annual pass to be an advantage.
I’ve been enjoying my Texas annual pass, but have been considering expanding my travels.
The New Mexico increases are not enough to deter my visit, but it will definitely disciplined planning on my meager budget.
I can understand that like everyone in the world that their expenses have increased also.
While some increase would seem fair, this seems more like a planned deterrent to me.
I have confirmed with New Mexico State Parks Office and Yuma BLM Oficce. The proposed 2025 for LTVA Sept thru April is $600. Same proposal for New Mexico State Park non resident annual pass. From my understanding only. Significant price increase for hookups, as well. Very disappointing
Ty so much for this information. I love New Mexico. Former resident.
That's a huge increase. I suppose it all comes down to how frequently you use NM state parks, or at least camp there. For the _vast_ majority of people, folks will opt out and only pay when they actually visit. I would have done that at the lower level, so I'm not the right person for this pass (I live several hours away from NM and I haven't explored all of my state (Colorado) yet either).
I am a lifelong NM resident and our ‘governor’ sucks. She has run this state into the ground
everything dems touch turns to chit
Same in CaLi aLso
Yes. I can hardly believe we have two years still to slog through under her “leadership”.
She’s a lot better than the last one who destroyed the mental health system in NM. She closed down all the mental health clinics because of “fraud”. Turns out there was no fraud, and NM was left with a decimated system. People died because her actions.
I spent one year traveling in New Mexico with the pass and loved it. I will not be buying another pass at the new rates. If th3y don't want our business then they can have their wish. I don't like the reservation system either I don't always travel by my computer. Home base in the wilderness is my thing now. No computers and no one telling me what to do. Good luck New Mexico, you are going to miss all of us!
Thank you for the great information...it helps
At $600 they are sure going to price themselves out of a lot of people buying into that.
I am a resident of Nevada and I just bought their state park pass for $250. I hope I’ll be able to use it this coming year.😊
I just purchased the annual pass the 1st of May. I watched all your videos on the parks. Does that mean even though I've already purchased the pass, that after the 1st of the year 2025 will I have to pay the higher fees for electric ,water? It's so sad. I sure hope there are a lot of improvements at these parks for the increases . Thankyou for the info.
Dang, I'm thankful that the annual pass in Texas is $70 regardless of residency. It waves the entrance fees and gets you 1/2 off the second night, and 10% off at the camp stores.
I am former TPWD. Your numbers are correct (for now). However, even with the pass, (on average) TX remains one of the most expensive state parks in the country.
@@authordebradickinson really? Because of the entrance fees or camping costs?
According to the online park store, the cost is going to $95 starting in September.
@@garychristison763 oh wow. Good to know. Thanks!
@garychristison763 thanks for the information! I reckon I should renew mine b4 September. Hopefully they will honor it for a year. 🤷♀️
I hope this passes, I can’t believe how hard it is for a New Mexican to camp in his or her own state. All of west Texas has taken over all of our small mountain towns as well.
Not once have I seen any of the NMSPs full - even on weekends and holidays. One of the problems is people not canceling and then being a no-show. As far as the towns, I sure don’t see local shops asking for NM IDs only before taking money. And, any one can make reservations - including NM residents. I don’t believe for one minute that NM residents are not able to get a site. The small mountain NMSP where we are now has 14 vacant sites.
@@authordebradickinson just got back from a weekend trip 95% out of state plates and no spots available. People with U-Haul trailers, so called camping.
Another NM resident here. I hope it passes too. The parks are being overwhelmed and this increase is more than fair and remains a good deal for an annual pass.
I hear you and I get it, but I really hope you two watch the end of this video - ruclips.net/video/j5gYYtesHkM/видео.html. 🙏🏼🥰
I stopped in a forest ranger station and got my access pass for free, I'm disabled, they told me they changed the pass fees for disabled, veterans get them free.
Sorry to hear this Debra. I know y'all loved being in NM. It sucks for all the full timers but unfortunately it looks like everything is going up. I really wanted to take a month and show Rhonda around New Mexico. Y'all stay safe out there.
Thanks for all this information Debra. I won’t be heading there.
Wonder WHat these states specially NM are going to do when they run the tourists off.
IKR?!? Exactly!!! 🥵
Reserve America will also clip you $4 per day for booking online.
True, but that is a system NM has a contract with and those fees are not set by or go to NM. A lot of states use RA (some don’t). Currently, the reservation fees with RA range from $4 to $12, depending on the length of stay.
So then the reservation fee is with RA and should not increase. So that brings the total to $62 (12 reserve fee) $50 a month camp fee ($600/12 months) a month to camp one 7 day week. Still not bad. Many of sites have own water so that is where it will get ya. So that brings total now to $97 to stay one wk with the reservation plus water. Or $13 a nite. Worth it not sure. After you have been forced to boondock on BLM for 3 wks out of a month $13 a nite sounds pretty good for a shower. I like the parks for being around people also.
Good evening friend. Thank you for the information. Well stated. It seems like it's gonna hurt a lot of small businesses who are losing out on the income that out of state campers bring. That's a shame. I hope you're doing well friend and having a good evening. 13:02
Hey Dennis!
@dennis78382 exactly! 👋
@@dennis78382 I agree. You have a good evening too Dennis!
I think they are targeting your group: Those out of state retired or living fulltime in rvs. . very sad to hear that..i had hoped to do that in 2025... Way too giant of an increase..a slight increase would of been better. They want to stop nomads..
Thanks for the information, Debra. Very sad, indeed.
Thanks for the information
Another one bites the dust 😢✌️❤️
How do these fees compare to other states next to NM?
I'm glad I got to enjoy it for this last year.
I was planning to tour NM in the near future. I'll cancel those plans and go elsewhere. So, I guess they win. One less out of state family in their overcrowded state.
Rewatching 👍🇺🇸👍
Hi there! Thank you, Dennis! I hope the info helps. KOKO!
Thank you getting all that information. They have now made NM state parks close to the expensive thousand trails camping pass or the coast to coast home campground annual fees. I paid 500 last year for maintenance fee for east coast membership I could not use because I wanted to see the west.
Hi there, nice sharing
Day use fees are posted at all state parks. That is 5 dollars per vehicle. This will go up to out of state residents. N.M state parks will still be cheaper than most. What N.M is trying to stop is people using the ACP as an alternative to living at the state parks. We also have issues of people not paying day use fees at all. The rest rooms are used and abused by homeless, drug use, people use them for laundry. If you want to help, call these actions out. When you see someone littering tell them, same as vandalism. Its hard to stay on top of this. Parks are shirt handed as is.
For all the bad press California gets, an annual pass is $195. And we have some spectacular State parks.
@@RamblinRoadies It’s just day use only , I think.
@@Teri728 yes
At $600 they are sure going to price themselves out of a lot of people buying into that.
I am a resident of Nevada and I just bought their state park pass for $250. I hope I’ll be able to use it this coming year.😊
And it is $10 for power and only about one or two state parks and we can only be in a park for seven days in the 30 calendar days … So like July 4 to August 4 then you can come back.
So with the pass you’d pay $10 for electricity and you get the water for free and the dump station is on the way out
Being a resident of New Mexico (I jokingly refer to myself as a New Texican) for several years now, I have observed that New Mexico (on various government/agency levels) has an unfortunate way of shooting itself in the feet. Some say increased fees are good and don't raise taxes (a fee, however, is a tax on a service). This attitude of New Mexico for New Mexicans is a lark because most of the employees at the national labs are not native residents. If the national labs (and other government facilities) weren't in New Mexico, the state economy would be down the toilet. Urban and rural growth is very slow because expansion is limited by reservations/pueblos. The emphasis on social programs/benefits results in increased taxes and cost of living (for example, theft forgiveness of $500 adding to that). Clean needles programs (I've almost stepped on a few discarded needles because addicts aren't in the frame of mind to place used needles in receptacles) and various programs catering to the drug addicted population have created a boon of addicts and beggars, which are homeless. I was almost assaulted by an addict who was desperate for cash. I know this is about park impact fees but for some considering a move to New Mexico there are things to consider. The health care system is, to be charitable, less than adequate. If you have a specialized medical condition, like I do, you can wait years for treatment. I'm having to travel back to Texas to pay out of pocket for treatment (goodbye retirement savings) because it's been a two year wait...and I can't wait any longer (Covid didn't have anything to do with it - there was a six month wait for an initial visit in 2018). I have a friend who had to travel to Texas for cancer treatment because of botched care here. Anyway, my local residents across the street are a working class family and just came back from a short camping trip. They aren't going to be happy about increased fees for New Mexicans. Increased costs affect everyone who is in the position of having to consider every nickel. My husband and I were considering buying a small camper (going from two vehicles to one)...but I think we'll pass. Once I found out about the 10 to 15 year rule, I developed considerable reservations. Now with increased fuel prices and increasing fees at various levels, camping isn't an attractive activity anymore. ☹
The prices are going up everywhere.
NM just lost this camper. Very sad because it's a beautiful state. Thank you for the info Debra. ✌☮
@@ceetee2021 who cares .. 4 bucks a day camper will be replaced by 40 dollar day camper .. so no one cares
Oh yikes. If they were going to increase, they should've gone to maybe $350 or $400, but not $600. I'm a NM resident and feel this would be a mistake if this increase goes through.
Are there national parks you can camp at?
@@scamphound1892 There are two national parks in New Mexico, White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns but they have no camping. There are two major National Moments Bandelier and Chaco Canyon that have campgrounds.
This is great!! As a resident/ home grown looking forward to seeing the funds being used for the restoration, maintenance and staff. This is similar to the hunting costs for out of state individuals. New Mexico is beautiful and deserves to be respected financially.
Absolutely! I agree with you that NM State Parks needs and deserves increased funds, and I said that in the video. It is delusional however to think that this new fee structure will fix the current problems NM State Parks has.
The problem you'll experience though is that there will be fewer campers, such as the ones in this video. At the end of the day NM might experience a net loss in the income.
I will always keep my NM residency!
I totally agree that any price increase is hard to accept. However, as a NM resident, I understand the need to do this. We always complain about how many parks are "little Texas". In fact we frequently ask "if Texas is so great, why are they always here?" If we go to Texas it costs us so much more than parks here in NM, so bringing parity between the states seems reasonable. But again, I never want prices to go up because it does make our traveling plans more difficult.
I shared in the video that I absolutely agree NMSPs needed to go up on their rates. I camp in TX, NM, every state actually - coast to coast, border to border. This rate increase does not bring NM into parity. It puts them as one of the most expensive state park systems in the country.
@@authordebradickinson Yes, Welcome to the socialist state of NM. Gas prices are due to go up significantly soon due to an additional tax increase as well.
Jeff, the ending of this video might give you a smile - ruclips.net/video/j5gYYtesHkM/видео.html 😊
$600 and you have to pay daily fees on top of that? 🤦♀️
That is correct. They are planning on $10 a day for electricity, $5 for water and another $5 if it has a sewer connection. So, ultimately, unless you're staying in a completely unimproved site it could be $600 plus $20/day.
That is a big increase. I am sorry that you won't be able to camp in NM anymore. Good luck and safe travels.
It’s extremely unfortunate they didn’t implement gradual but still monetarily beneficial NM Parks’ increases over the years. The annual pass increase is quite radical and will unfortunately keep a lot of good people and financial contributors out. I can understand if their guidelines were so lax that they couldn’t ensure the undesirables or disrespectful behaviors were curtailed. But come on NM, be more reasonable and not so cost prohibitive to good people wanting to enjoy and contribute financially to your state. There is a logical and happy medium to protect your parks.
Well said. A classic case of cutting off your nose to spite your face. In my opinion, this reflects a lack of awareness of other options campers have in the state.
I have missed y0u, hope you can let us know how you aŕe doing. AL
I think your concern is a bit premature. There has been a lot of pushback and it may not happen anytime soon. I hope I'm not wrong.
This is the 2nd round of revisions and proposed amendments. For the most part, it is pretty much set in stone at this point.
I'm glad I bought mine last year and it has paid for itself even though I have not spent nearly as much time in the state as you guys.
But there are still so many parks and parts of the state I haven't seen. Are they going to stop selling them in the interim until January? Mine expires in September and I had planned to get a new one 😢. I wonder if they wiuld prorate them for people ourchasing before January, or just not let you buy a new one until January?
It is my understanding that you will be able to purchase the ACP at current prices until January 1, 2025. Any reservations made prior to 01.01.25 will also be honored at the current rate. But please verify that information through your own research, and check for their official updates when released.
I believe Debra commented that you can still buy the old pass up to Jan 1 so I would get it.
Just subb'd cause I seen you w/Bob.. ty for good info🤗🫶
Welcome! :))
Thanks for the Information !!!
You are most welcome.
The “super amazing deal” that so many of us have enjoyed at New Mexico State Parks had to come to an end. Many state residents and out of state annual pass holders have been literally living in our state parks for nearly free. Everyone knew that it was just absurdly cheap. The new fee structure is fair, and much more affordable than the initial proposal. $600 is steep for an out of state pass, but what no one is saying, is that most states do not even offer any sort of annual camping pass. As a proud New Mexican, I will continue to camp in our amazing state parks. It will still be a bargain, compared to most other states.
This is incorrect. I am former TPWD and can tell you that most states absolutely have annual passes. I said clearly in my video that an increase was warranted and deserved. At $600 for non-residents plus $10-$20 per depending on site amenities, it will put NM at the top tier of most expensive parks. I didn’t say that was wrong, I simply stated it puts it out of reach for me and at that price is no longer feasible. Happy camping. I love NM!
@@authordebradickinson I believe most states have annual day use passes, but relatively few offer camping passes.
Those are some steep fee increases. I’m planning to travel soon and I was hoping I could camp throughout New Mexico since I’ve never spent much time there. I’ve only driven through. I wonder why they are going to increase the fees so much and so suddenly.
I would hope communicatio. To that state park board and state officials was attempted.
Too bad you were unable to participate in the vitual meeting. This infuriates me because of the steep double and triple fees!
I read about this previously and it's to bad that NM is catching up to most other states on charges. But.....I'm not sure where you can camp for less than $35 a night. ??? I have found a few city campgrounds in NE or IA that are lower or even FREE but that is rare and you can't generally stay more than a few nights at them. I guess BLM land out west is the next best on low cost. Maybe work-kamping is the answer. ??
I just got home from City of Rocks in New Mexico and it was such a great place to camp. The annual pass is incredibly expensive in New Mexico and I disagree that State parks are primarily for residents. But you are forgetting they include the entrance fee in the camping fee so you DO N OT have to have an annual pass. Camping in New Mexico is very cheap compared to other states. An increase to $600 is very steep but look at other States.
Yes, the day use fee (entry fee) is included in the ACP as is the cost of the actual overnight site. I covered that in the video. You are correct that you do not have to have the ACP to camp. Without it, you pay for the campsite plus any amenities - again, as I covered in the video. As far as other states, the new overnight camping fees for NM are similar, but the rate for the non-resident annual pass is not. TX is going up to $95, NV is $250, and there is everything in between for other states. I will say it again … I agree an increase was needed, well deserved, and too long in coming. The day use and per night rates may be similar, but the annual pass fees and the stay limits are not. To me, the message is loud and clear that they do not want $$ from tourism and those of us that spend thousands of dollars every year in NM. That makes me sad on many levels because I love NM very much.
When I first learned about New Mexico annual passes it was from a video about 6 months ago and they mentioned the possible price increase but he said that as long as you buy a pass before July 1st then your grandfathered into the prior rates
Is that still so?
I shared in the video what I know, and was told by the NMSP authorities. The Bureau Chief said in the online meeting that the fee increases would be effective 1.1.25. So IDK about this July 1st info. I suggest you look at the links in my pinned comment or video description and contact them to verify.
I heard Arizona parks going up too
So is Texas.
WOW they have really out priced themselves. What a shame. I will stick with the COE campgrounds, they are much cheaper and nicer for sure.
Thanks for the update, I'm very sad to hear this news as someone who doesn't live there but one day I hope to as well.
Sad for many non resident campers. I wonder what their ratio of resident to non resident passes are for this year. You will find new beautiful places - you guys have a knack for finding great spots.
How sad for many out of state travelers. When you're relaying important information, sorry you have to defend yourself, but you do it really well. :) You rock! Take care.
Thank you for the much needed kind words. 🥰🫶🏼❣️
Sad to say, I'm getting the feeling from this and other price hikes, closures, etc, that their is a big push to make the nomad lifestyle untenable 😢
Do NM game and fish next
I don't understand.
Unfortunately our State Parks are being "lived in" by out of state folks for weeks at a time, who stay in the area for months. Some come every year and a primary reason is the low cost. The lovely parks and low rates bring floods of non-residents, paying less per day than local cost of living (hotels or rentals) to their advantage, so they stay..... Many these days are basically not vacation travelers but low income squatters on fixed income who abuse the low rates system to avoid moving on.... In the winter they fill up the desert sites and every long hot summer they FILL THE MOUNTAIN CAMPSITES.
We residents suffer through heat, wind, long distances between conveniences, and poor local economies because we LOVE IT HERE. Limited number of supported camping sites are occupied so fully that locals find it difficult to enjoy during our limited vacation and weekend times.
Snow Birds are visitors who act like they live here BUT aren't invested. Many bring or mail order their necessities so don't actually support our local economy except the grocery stores.
All are welcome to visit. Why should our public spaces provide "cheap" long term living sites for weeks or months every year for you?
Discussed with several locals who camp. Seems biggest problem is site reservations that block out 2 weeks at a time so others can't get a reservation, then are a no show. Perhaps an up front charge when reserving, then applied when arrive, is appropriate?
Also, if total use is down due to higher charges, less maintenance costs to the state. Might not get improvement but current facilities less stressed.
@susanfrary6880 …
Paragraph 1 - It cannot be considered squatting when the full rate is paid and all of the rules, laws, regulations and guidelines are adhered to. I said in the video that NM was overdue and deserved increased fees. That, however, is going to do nothing to deter those squatting and camping in parks or public lands illegally. That issue needs other solutions. And, you are 💯 wrong about the mountain campsites being filled. I have yet to see that happen in any of them. Sites are left vacant because people don’t cancel. As far as there being nothing left for NM residents, I am currently in a high mountain NMSP campground. Here’s the count … 2 NM license plates, 9 non-NM plates and FOURTEEN empty sites!! Get your facts straight before you start spouting fake news and propaganda.
Paragraph 2 - I have found the people of NM to be warm, kind and welcoming … unlike you. And I can promise you that you do not love NM more than me - the culture, history, beauty and nature speaks to my soul. The likes of you will not dampen my enthusiasm for moving here when I choose to quit traveling. The only time I have seen your beautiful parks disrespected and trashed has been by locals while vacationing or partying on weekends.
Paragraph 3 - More fake news and propaganda. You walk through any town near a state park in the mountains in the summer and the stores, shops and restaurants are packed with non-residents spending money. That’s why local businesses showed up in droves at the public hearings to express concern over the loss of revenue with the proposed fee changes. In addition to that, there are very few places near NMSPs to get deliveries. So, once again, you’re writing nonsense that isn’t based on facts.
Paragraph 4 - Again, I support increased rates for NMSPs that were long overdue. However, it should make zero difference how long someone camps anywhere as long as they pay the amount required and follow all laws, rules, regulations and guidelines, including term limits. Why on earth would you think they shouldn’t?
Take your righteous entitlement and incorrect information based on ridiculous suppositions somewhere else. I hope others reading this understand that you are the exception to NM hospitality and not the norm!
As for your 2nd comment that you left, it sounds like you have some people around you that are solution-oriented and get what the real issues are. Kudos to them. Maybe try following their lead.
Boondock in BLM, Nat. Forest .
Yep. I’ve been fulltime on the road 24/7 for 9 years now and spent the 1st five years doing just that. And … I’m guessing appx 60% of the places I used to go are now closed. I get it, and understand the reasons, but it’s not as simple as it seems anymore.
People trashed the land so they closed them down. Truly sad for the majority that don’t abuse our open lands.
I understand because I live here the State Parks need money for maintenance. However, I think with increase they are going to lose money and hurt businesses. Just look with just you and Frugal they will lose $500 plus camping fees. Plus all the businesses you spend money are going to lose. Times that by 10.000 or more out of state people that came here every year and they will go in the hole. Not to count the locals who will not be able to afford the new rates. Just had to put in my rant.
I'm so sorry that NM doesn't want "our kind" at their parks! You will find other parks that are just as good if not better to stay at. If you're gonna pay THAT MUCH for a state park, you'd be better off staying at an RV park with full-hookups. As you already know, when God shuts one door, he opens a bigger one!!
If you are in NM campgrounds a lot, it isn't much per day. If you aren't, is the day rate much different than other states? If you don't need hookups, you still have a lot of BLM land.
I have been camping in NMSPs for a few months a year. NM def needed an increase in fees but the new costs puts NM near the top now as one of the most expensive. I don't need hookups, and have boondocked and dry docked all over the country. Not sure where all I will go next year. Stay tuned! 👍🏼😍
@@authordebradickinson I have available property near Show Low if you are ever in the area.
I bought my pass and I stayed 2 weeks at Bluewater Lake for free and I am at Navajo Lake for 2 weeks now for free. That is why I bought the pass. I guess I will not be ever going back to New Mexico
Thank you for the information. Sad
Wow,I hope you change your mind about moving there now. Too bad greed got the better of them.
Good job explaining a complex and pricey situation DD 👍
Thanks for the update. I got disgusted with NM when they gave us 8 hr notice to get out Mar. 13, 2020. It was cold and snowing. Like they cared if we got sick. Commies run that state, sadly.
I’m disappointed, doing NM with the state parks pass was on my bucket list.
Sorry to hear that Debra. You are right it is such a beautiful state. It is just getting too expensive to do anything travel related. Happy travels.
The info hasn't changed since we heard it from you on Patreon. UGH!! You still look sad, so I guess it's true, the state you love has big changes coming for you and Jana, and everyone who has enjoyed the ACP. I have been to New Mexico several times, but not just camping. I hope people will still be able to find a way to pay for their time in New Mexico and enjoy its beauty. Thank you for sharing this video. Be safe Hugs Love you guys