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Welcome to the Southwestern Region
Winter in the Southwest!
Winter is a time to slow down, get outdoors, and become a participant of nature. Whether planning fun winter activities, taking a scenic drive, or gathering firewood, the snow-covered wonderlands of the Southwestern Region's National Forests will delight you.
The Southwestern Region covers more than 20.6 million acres, boasting thousands of recreation opportunities spread across six national forests in Arizona, five national forests and a national grassland in New Mexico, and one national grassland each in Oklahoma and the Texas panhandle. The elevation ranges from 1,600 feet above sea level and an annual rainfall of 8 inches in Arizona's lower Sonoran Desert to 13,171-foot high Wheeler Peak and over 35 inches of precipitation a year in northern New Mexico.
A Cherished Tradition
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Christmas Tree Permits
Brighten up your holidays! Learn how to get a Christmas tree from your favorite National Forest. Christmas tree permits are available for purchase now and can be cut through December 31, 2024.
Plan Your Visit
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Find a Getaway
The Southwest Region is brimming with opportunities for all kinds of outdoor recreation. There is something for everyone!
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Be Prepared
Plan for your next adventure by purchasing a map and browsing our publications. Maps can be purchased online or in-person.
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Passes and Permits
Most national forest system lands are open, free of charge for your use and enjoyment. Several types of passes and permits exist for sites that require fees, and for commercial and special uses.
Your Input Needed
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Objection Period Open for Arizona National Scenic Trail Comprehensive Plan
The draft decision notice, environmental assessment, and comprehensive plan are available for review. Objections are due by January 6, 2025.
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Environmental assessment complete for the South Sacramento Restoration Project
The public can begin to review the environmental assessment for this significant forest restoration project. Objections can be submitted starting in mid-December.
Fire Information
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Wildfire Crisis Strategy
In 2022, the Forest Service launched a 10-year strategy to address the wildfire crisis across the west. The Wildfire Crisis Strategy aims to dramatically increase fuels and forest health treatments, including on four designated landscapes in Arizona and New Mexico.
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Our Forest Bill is Due
Fire isn’t always the enemy – sometimes it’s the answer. With the right preparation and conditions, wildfires sparked by lightning can be managed the way nature intended making communities safer. This video shows highly trained fire professionals. Always take precautions and wear protective gear when near fire.
About the Southwestern Region
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Caring for the Land
In the Southwestern Region, the Forest Service is tasked with managing public lands brimming with natural resources and diverse wildlife. The Forest Service works to protect at-risk species like the Mexican spotted owl and New Mexican jumping mouse, ensure forest health through safe logging and grazing practices, and restore critical ecosystems.
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Shared Stewardship
USDA Undersecretary for Natural Resources and Environment Dr. Homer Wilkes and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs sign Shared Stewardship in Phoenix to reduce community wildfire risk and improve forest health.
Features
Healing the Gila
Damaged by the 2012 Whitewater-Baldy Fire, a diverse coalition of government agencies and non-profit organizations have united to restore Willow Creek to its former glory.
New Helibase on the Payson Ranger District
Forest Service officials say the $4.9 million facility will play a major role in suppressing wildfires in Arizona and supporting the agency’s wildfire crisis strategy for reducing wildfire risk to communities and improving resilience of Arizona’s forests.