Shutdown Outdoor Etiquette Vital

By Michele Robertson

The nation is currently experiencing the longest government shutdown in history, and local tourism is taking a hit as national parks remain closed.

Having Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Carlsbad’s backyard, and the close proximity to White Sands National Park and Big Bend National Park, normally provide outdoor enthusiasts and national park lovers with a variety of choices when planning an adventure.

Access to national parks varies with each park, and they remain as accessible as possible. Visitors should expect some services to be limited or completely unavailable, which makes it important to practice the principles of Leave No Trace.

“Have patience and have a plan B. Every park is managing the shutdown differently, but no matter what, visitation during the shutdown puts a strain on the very few staff working (with no pay),” shared an area park ranger. “Federal government shutdowns are a great opportunity to explore the state parks.”

The shutdown began on October 1. On the same day, New Mexico State Parks began offering free day-use to New Mexico Residents. Through April 30, New Mexico residents can take advantage of two new benefits at most New Mexico State Parks: free day-use access with a valid New Mexico ID and an extended camping stay; the maximum stay limit for campers has been increased to 14 consecutive days. This perk does not apply to parking at the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park or for entry into the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park and the Carlsbad Museum reported an uptick in visitors during the first couple of weeks of the shutdown, but that has tapered off as the shutdown continues. Some area businesses are also feeling the pinch as the number of tourists coming in to partake of their offerings has decreased.

Several state parks in the area offer a variety of recreational activities. Brantley Lake State Park is just up the road on the way to Artesia. Bottomless Lakes State Park is in Roswell, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park is near Alamogordo, and City of Rocks State Park is near Faywood. In all, New Mexico has about 35 state parks for residents to visit and enjoy at no cost through April 2026.

While enjoying time in nature, it is important to prepare for the outing. Following the seven principles of Leave No Trace can help maximize time in the outdoors while minimizing the impact on natural resources.

1. Plan ahead and prepare. Knowing the destination, the terrain encountered, the weather during the outing, and the skill level of any travel companions can help ensure a successful expedition. In addition to these planning preparations, adventurers should consider how much food to bring, how much water will be needed (approximately 2 gallons per person per day is suggested), and whether there are any restrictions at the destination.

2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Stay on designated trails and camp in areas that are able to withstand the effects of camping. Traveling and camping in already-worn areas is not an option in some cases. In these instances, remember to tread lightly and minimize impact on the area.

3. Dispose of waste properly. Pack it in, pack it out. It is best for wildlife and individuals hoping to enjoy the great outdoors that hikers take their trash with them.

4. Leave what’s found. By leaving what they see in its place, adventurers allow others to admire it as well. This includes vegetation, artifacts, rocks, and other materials meant to be there. Lessen the impact on the site when in established camping areas by leaving the fire ring where it is and not destroying or moving it. Avoid doing damage to living trees and plants and leave natural and cultural objects where they are. Wildlife depends on the availability of natural resources around them for their habitat.

5. Minimize campfire impacts. In most national parks, open campfires are not allowed. In this arid climate, campfires are often allowed for only a short time. Drought conditions are a major reason for bans on campfires, making camp stoves a great option. They can be used for cooking and cause minimal impact on a campsite, whereas a campfire significantly impacts the campsite. Understanding how to build, maintain, and extinguish a fire is essential when using open flames in the wilderness.

6. Respect wildlife. It is best to keep a distance from any wild animal encountered. Quiet observation from a distance is the best practice. Food storage and disposal are also important; anything with a scent should be securely stored so animals cannot get into it. Camping near water is relaxing and a whole lot of fun, but animals still need access to it, so remember to set up at least 200 feet from the water source.

7. Be considerate of other visitors. Outdoor ethics and courtesy towards others—humans and wildlife—are important practices. In general, when people head outdoors, they are trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the everyday grind. Understanding some basic outdoor etiquette can go a long way toward making any trip pleasant and helping others have an enjoyable time, too.

These principles are explored in more depth at www.LNT.org and on many park websites. Adventurers should research any area before heading out on an adventure and let at least one person who is not going with them know the details of their arrival and return. Safety is a priority for travelers and visitors to natural spaces. Time in nature is time well spent, so take pleasure in the outdoors by being as prepared as possible.