Rules & Regulations

The following rules and regulations have been sorted by subject for your convenience. This section does not attempt to duplicate the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) so it should not be regarded as a comprehensive list of regulations. It will, however, answer many of the most common questions regarding park rules. The Superintendent's Compendium is a listing of local regulations that is more technical and comprehensive concerning local issues.

• Safety
• Pets
• Fishing
• Horseback Riding
• Mountain Biking
• Permits & Reservations
• Backcountry Experience

 

Firearms in the Park

As of February 22, 2010, a new federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms at Valles Caldera National Preserve. It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park. For more information, please visit the New Mexico Department of Public Safety website.

Federal law prohibits firearms in certain facilities at Valles Caldera National Preserve (such as visitor center, government offices, etc.); those places are marked with signs at all public entrances. Firearms may not be discharged at Valles Caldera National Preserve (except during legal hunting seasons).

Firearms are not a wildlife protection strategy. Bear spray and other safety precautions are the proven methods for preventing bear and other wildlife interactions.