Carlsbad Caverns

Alerts and closures

• Information

  Closures Due to Flood Damage

  Some areas of the park including Walnut Canyon Desert Drive, Yucca Canyon Trail, and Slaughter Canyon Trail will remain closed after extensive flood damage. No backcountry permits will be issued until further notice. The main park road to the visitor center and cavern is open.

  Details on nps.gov

• Information

  Fire Restrictions

  Fire 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.

• Information

  Items Worn or Used in Other Caves Not Allowed

  A 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.

  Details on nps.gov

• Information

  Timed Entry Ticket Required to Enter Carlsbad Cavern

  Reservations 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.

  Details on nps.gov

• Information

  Footwear in the Cavern

  For 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.

About

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.

Things to do: Astronomy, Stargazing, Camping, Caving, Food, Dining, Picnicking, Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Hiking, Junior Ranger Program, Wildlife Watching

Entry and fees

• Timed Entry Reservation - Location

  A timed entry reservation must be purchased to access Carlsbad Cavern. In addition, an entry pass must be purchased at the visitor center. Time entry reservations ensure a more enjoyable experience and helps to protect the cave formations.

  $1

• Entrance - Per Person

  Entrance fee provides access to Carlsbad Cavern by elevator and hiking in. Ranger-guided tours are an additional fee and can be reserved on recreation.gov.

  $15

Fees change. Confirm on nps.gov before you go.