Welcome to the Carson National Forest

The Carson National Forest is one of five National Forests in New Mexico. The National Forests are America's "great outdoors," here to serve the American people at work and play!

Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.5 million acres covered by the Carson National Forest. Elevations rise from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico. Our objective is to maintain that natural beauty. More information about the forest

Recent News

• Carson National Forest Encourages Social Distancing as El Nogal Trailhead Reopens

  Release Date: Apr 8, 2020  

• Carson National Forest desalienta la exposición innecesaria, Aglomeraciones durante el brote de COVID-19

  Release Date: Apr 6, 2020  

• Carson National Forest Discourages Unnecessary Exposure, Overcrowding during COVID-19 Outbreak

  Release Date: Apr 6, 2020  

Features

Restricted Areas - Closed Developed Recreation Sites in The Southwestern Region

To protect public health and safety, and the health and safety of our employees and volunteers, and reflecting federal and state guidance to limit the spread of COVID-19, developed recreation sites are currently closed and group sizes are limited in other areas. 

Proposed Recreation Fees and Comment Information

We are accepting comments on proposed changes to the management of the developed recreation program. These changes will impact campgrounds and day-use sites on the Carson, Gila, Lincoln, and Santa Fe National Forests, and the Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands. Comment period ends December 31, 2020.

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