SFNF Closes El Porvenir Campground Effective Immediately

By SFNF

Managers on the Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) are closing the El Porvenir Campground for the winter earlier than the planned date of Dec. 31. The high winds this week that wreaked havoc across northern New Mexico left several downed trees across the district, including El Porvenir Campground, posing a threat to public health and safety.

Due to the early closure, fuelwood permit holders will not be able to access the fuelwood collection area off Forest Road 261 from El Porvenir.  Permit holders can still access fuelwood from the Las Dispensas side via Forest Roads 637/637A. The 2021 fuelwood permits expire on Dec. 31.

Most of the developed campgrounds on the SFNF are closed for the winter season. It’s a good idea to check the recreation conditions report on the SFNF website for current status.

The 1.6-million-acre SFNF is likely to have suffered additional damage from the storm system that brought winds gusting up to 100 miles per hour. Forest visitors should use extreme caution on trails and in dispersed areas. In addition to downed trees on the ground, be aware of the risk of hazard trees, standing trees with structural defects from age, fire and disease.

As always, plan ahead and know before you go into the forest.

• Check weather and road conditions.
• Let someone know where you are going, when you will be returning and what route you plan to take.
• Use the SFNF motor vehicle use mapsthat show roads, trails and lands that are designated for motor vehicle use.
• Pack personal safety supplies – such as water, snacks and dry clothing – and remember that you may not have cell service in many parts of the forest.
• Follow all Centers for Disease Control guidelines and state public health orders.