Welcome to Carson National Forest
The Carson National Forest spans 1.5 million acres of Northern New Mexico, encompassing portions of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, San Juan Mountains and the San Juan Basin. With elevations ranging from 6,500 to over 13,000 feet, the forest boasts diverse ecosystems, from the sagebrush to alpine and tundra.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, camping, hunting and fishing. The forest is also home to New Mexico's tallest point, Wheeler Peak.
The Latest
Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort Expansion Proposal
The Carson National Forest accepted Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort's proposed project to expand its boundaries and build new infrastructure, based on its master development plan.
Fire Managers Prepare for Potential Prescribed Fires
While dry summer conditions may limit or pause work, fire managers are looking for potential opportunities to conduct prescribed fire work this fall and winter to reduce the threat of wildfire to communities, infrastructure and watershed.
Fire Hire: Apply Now!
The Carson and forests across the Southwest are filling temporary/seasonal positions for the 2027 fire season. Apply by Nov. 12 to start as early as March 8, 2027. The regional fire hire page lists open positions and tips to successfully apply.
Rising From the Ashes: Resilience and Renewal
Rising from the Ashes is a story of relationships amid disaster recovery in the Hermit's Peak-Calf Canyon Fire burn area.
Know Before You Go
Current Conditions
Check out the general conditions found on the forest each season.
Campground Statuses
Check the status of campgrounds as fall arrives and some faciliites close for the season.
Visitor Maps
Need a map? There are a number of ways to help you get to where you're going.