Carlsbad Caverns National Park
48 nearby · 5 free and dispersed sites within 50 mi
Photo: NPS / Michael Larson
5 current alerts
As of Sep 20, 2026 · from nps.gov
- InformationFire RestrictionsFire restrictions have been lifted at Carlsbad Caverns which means that fires such as charcoal fires in grills and the use of camp stoves or portable grills will be allowed. Igniting and maintaining an open fire must be done with materials that are commonly used for warmth and food preparations such as natural firewood or charcoal briquettes. Other materials such as flammable liquids, garbage, plastic, aerosol canisters, or other artificial substances are not permitted.
- InformationClosures Due to Flood DamageSome areas of the park including Walnut Canyon Desert Drive and some trails remain closed after extensive flood damage. The main park road to the visitor center and cavern is open.
- InformationItems Worn or Used in Other Caves Not AllowedA disease known as White-Nose Syndrome is killing bats in North America. To prevent it from spreading to our bats, do not wear shoes, clothing, or bring any gear into any cave at Carlsbad Caverns National Park that were in another cave.
- InformationTimed Entry Ticket Required to Enter Carlsbad CavernReservations are highly recommended and can be purchased by clicking "more" or calling 877-444-6777. Reservations only select the entry time. Upon arrival at the visitor center, an entrance pass must be purchased.
- InformationFootwear in the CavernFor safety, closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended. Flip flops, sandals, and some walking shoes have little or no traction and increase the possibility of slips, trips, and falls. Watch your step and use the handrails when necessary.
At a glance
- Entrance
- $15 per person
- Near the park
- 48 campgroundsWithin 50 mi
- Free and dispersed
- 5 sitesWithin 50 mi
Where to camp
Camping near the park 48
- Aerial viewPublic Land
Sunset Reef
7.7 mi · Whites City, NM
- Aerial viewRV Park
Whites City RV Park
10 mi · Whites City, NM
Free and dispersed nearby 5
See them on the mapServices nearby: 1 dump station · 3 rest areas
About Carlsbad Caverns
High ancient sea ledges, deep rocky canyons, flowering cactus, and desert wildlife—treasures above the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert. Hidden beneath the surface are more than 119 caves—formed when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone leaving behind caverns of…
High ancient sea ledges, deep rocky canyons, flowering cactus, and desert wildlife—treasures above the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert. Hidden beneath the surface are more than 119 caves—formed when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone leaving behind caverns of all sizes.
Photos: NPS / Eymard Bangcoro · NPS / Michael Larson
Things to do
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Camping
- Caving
- Food
- Dining
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Plan your visit
Getting there
To access the park's only entrance road, New Mexico Highway 7, turn north from US Hwy 62/180 at White's City, NM, which is 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Carlsbad, NM and 145 miles (233 km) northeast of El Paso, TX. The…
Weather
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in southeast New Mexico. Summers are hot with temperatures between 90°F (32°C) and low 100s °F (38°C). Windy conditions and mild temperatures are common…
Plan your visit
Fees and passes
- Timed entry reservation$1
- Per person$15
Hours
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is open 24-hours a day. Visitor center hours and cave tour schedule vary throughout the year.
Getting there
To access the park's only entrance road, New Mexico Highway 7, turn north from US Hwy 62/180 at White's City, NM, which is 20 miles (32 km) southwest of Carlsbad, NM and 145 miles (233 km) northeast of El Paso, TX. The entrance road stretches a scenic seven miles (11.3 km) from the park gate at White's City to the visitor center and cavern entrance. The address for the park's visitor center is 727 Carlsbad Caverns Hwy, Carlsbad, NM, 88220, located 27 miles (43 km) from the town of Carlsbad.
Weather
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in southeast New Mexico. Summers are hot with temperatures between 90°F (32°C) and low 100s °F (38°C). Windy conditions and mild temperatures are common in early spring (March-May) with frequent rain in early fall (August-September). This part of the country also sees cold temperatures in the winter with occasional snow and icy conditions. Most days, the park is enveloped by a gorgeous blue sky with very few clouds, 278 sunny days a year!
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