SFNF To Reopen Most Recreation Sites June 15

By SFNF

The Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) will open most developed campgrounds and day use sites across the forest on Monday, June 15. Developed recreation sites were closed in March to protect public health and safety and limit the spread of COVID-19.

Six group campgrounds – Clear Creek, Paliza, Jemez Falls, San Antonio, Holy Ghost and Jacks Creek Group Campgrounds – will remain closed until at least June 30 in alignment with current federal guidance and New Mexico state public health orders limiting group size.

The SFNF is resuming trash collection and reopening toilet facilities across the forest. Be aware that restroom maintenance may be limited and you are using the facilities at your own risk. Water will not be available at many campgrounds that normally provide access to potable or non-potable water pending the completion of testing for contaminants. Campers are advised to bring an adequate supply of water.

The SFNF is also under Stage 2 fire restrictions, which include a ban on campfires and charcoal grills. Propane stoves and lanterns equipped with an on/off switch are permissible.

“Our campgrounds have always been a very special part of the recreation experience on the Santa Fe National Forest,” Acting Forest Supervisor Debbie Cress said. “We are happy to be able to welcome visitors back for an overnight adventure in their favorite campground, and we appreciate your patience while we determined the best path forward to safely reopen our developed sites.”

Most developed campgrounds on the SFNF are first-come, first-served. Visitors can make reservations for the reservation-only campgrounds via www.recreation.gov. Reservations for the five group campgrounds have been cancelled through June 30.Reopening the group sites will depend on public health orders in place after that date.

If you are planning to visit the SFNF, please remember to:

• Be a good steward and recreate responsibly.
• Avoid crowded areas to maintain social distancing and comply with state public health orders limiting group size.
• Park only in designated areas. Do not impede emergency access by blocking roadways, fire lanes or driveways.
• Follow “Leave No Trace” principles, including “pack it in, pack it out” with your trash, to avoid creating a public health hazard for forest visitors and employees.
• Follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance on protecting yourself and others from COVID-19.

Stay up to date on recreation opportunities by checking the SFNF website and following the forest on Facebook and Twitter.