Carlsbad Caverns National Park | American Tour Association

A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Make room for the wonder.

Below the desert, Carlsbad’s immense chambers reveal a landscape of delicate formations and vast stone spaces. Make the cavern visit the center of the day and leave time for the above-ground setting as well.

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

Photo of the Big Room with trail — Big Room
NPS / Eymard Bangcoro · Photography credit

BUILD YOUR OWN PARK DAY

Places to consider

01Big Room
02Visitor center exhibits
03Seasonal bat-flight program

Choose the stops that suit your time and your party. These are ideas for exploring, rather than a fixed itinerary or a promise that every road, trail or facility will be open.

Before you set out

Cavern entry arrangements and tour reservations need advance attention. Ask about elevator availability, walking distance and accessibility for your chosen visit.

Give the day room

Allow time for the approach, parking and breaks. Pick walks for the least mobile members of your party, and leave space for weather or a change of plans.

Bring your group

Confirm vehicle access, drop-off and parking with the park. Check any guided tours, transport and accessibility arrangements before fixing the rest of the itinerary.

Official park visitor guide ↗Current conditions ↗

Check the official NPS guide for current access, fees, passes, reservations and permits. Gateway names identify useful surrounding communities or access areas, not exact entrance directions. Photographs may show earlier seasons or conditions.