Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Descend into a subterranean wonderland of massive cave chambers and breathtaking formations.
Quick Info
Highlights
- The Big Room self-guided cave tour
- Bat Flight Program at sunset
- Natural Entrance trail into the cavern
- King's Palace ranger-led tour
- Rattlesnake Springs desert oasis birding
Park Map
Explore trailheads, hotels, and points of interest
About Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park contains over 119 known caves formed from a fossil reef laid down during the Permian era. The Big Room, at over 8 acres, is one of the largest underground chambers in North America, filled with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and other speleothems. Each summer evening, hundreds of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats spiral out of the cave entrance in a dramatic natural spectacle that draws visitors from around the world.
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Where to Stay
View all hotelsWhite's City Cavern Inn
$$The closest hotel to the caverns located in Whites City, featuring continental breakfast, seasonal outdoor pool, picnic area with barbecue grills, and in-room WiFi.
Quality Inn & Suites Carlsbad Caverns Area
$$Well-maintained hotel in Carlsbad with free breakfast buffet, 24-hour fitness center, seasonal outdoor pool, garden, and rooms with refrigerators and microwaves.
Hampton Inn & Suites Carlsbad
$$Modern hotel in Carlsbad with free breakfast, heated indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and 85 guest rooms with refrigerators and microwaves.