Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

The Enchantment of Forest, Wilderness and Grasslands 

The Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands encompasses 1.9 million acres. The 4 “sky island” ranger districts: Sandia, Mountainair, Magdalena, and Mt Taylor cover more than 1.6 million acres in New Mexico with elevations range up to 11,301 ft. The Cibola also has four wilderness areas: Sandia Mountain, Manzano Mountain, Withington and Apache Kid and administers four National Grasslands: Black Kettle, McClellan Creek, Kiowa and Rita Blanca covering 263,261 acres in northeastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma and northern Texas. ​ 

• Let the Tradition Begin

  

  Christmas tree permits allow people to cut down a Christmas tree from designated locations in our National Forests. Lifelong memories are built with family and friends during these special times. Permits go on sale Nov. 6. Fourth graders may be eligible for a free tree!

  Learn More Order Online

Prepare for Your Visit 

• Recreation Sites

  

  Four season opportunities for visitors to the forests, wilderness and grasslands

  Start Exploring

• Find Your Way

  

  Cibola area maps are available in all formats and for all devices. Plan ahead by mapping your adventure.

  Maps and Guides

• Passes & Permits

  

  Check out what fees are required and what passes are available. Know before heading out.

  Passes and Permits

Discover More about the Cibola

• Caring for the Land

  

  ​Learn more about how the Cibola is managed and cared for, including forest planning, travel management, grazing management and annual operating instructions (AOIs), assessments, and special projects.

  Land Management

• The Cibola's New Land Management Plan

  

  In July 2022, the Cibola released a new, long-term plan that provides direction for the management for the Cibola National Forest’s four mountain districts.

  Learn More  News Release