Photo of Giant Dome and Twin Domes in the Big Room.
Giant and Twin domes in the Big Room. NPS / Michael Larson

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

National Park · New Mexico · National Park Service

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.

Plan your visit

Trails & hiking

Hiking

Camping

Camping

Site types & reservations: see the official site.

Know before you go

Phone
5752432914
Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

Getting there

Directions on Google Maps →

Things to do

Highlights: Native American Heritage · Ancient Seas · Animals · Birds · Fish · Tortoises and Turtles · Caves, Caverns and Karst · Geology · Night Sky · Astronomy · Trails · Unique Species · Wilderness

Activities & features: Astronomy · Stargazing · Caving · Food · Dining · Picnicking · Guided Tours · Self-Guided Tours - Walking · Junior Ranger Program · Wildlife Watching · Birdwatching · Park Film · Shopping · Bookstore and Park Store · Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Photos

  • Photo of the Big Room with trail
    NPS / Eymard Bangcoro
  • Photo of four mule deer in a drainage with vegetation around them.
    NPS / Michael Larson
  • Photo of the Natural Entrance to Carlsbad Cavern with visitors hiking down the trail.
    NPS / Eymard Bangcoro
  • Photo of the Chandelier and Caveman formations in the Big Room
    NPS / Eymard Bangcoro
  • Photo of a yucca plant with cream and pinkish-colored flowers.
    NPS / Eymard Bangcoro

Nearby parks

Parks of New Mexico

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48 parks mapped in New Mexico

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Guides for the trip

All guides →

Sources: National Park Service, Google Places · updated 2026-08-12