Gatherings and commercial activities in national parks often require a special use permit. The purpose of these permits is to ensure the protection of the park’s natural and cultural resources, as well as to minimize conflicts between park visitors and your guests.

Examples of permitted activities include:

• Commercial filming and photography
• Entering backcountry caves [159k PDF]
• Any ground-disturbing activities 
• First Amendment events
• Weddings (and similar gatherings)

If you are not sure that your event requires a permit or have other questions, contact:

Lila Mohesky-Roybal Chief Ranger
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
3225 National Parks Highway
Carlsbad, New Mexico
575.785.3035 phone
575.785.2133 fax