• Photo of the steep natural entrance of Carlsbad Caverns

    Carlsbad Caverns

    National Park New Mexico

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  • Elevator Renovations

    Allow more time to visit and expect lines for small elevators while large elevator system is renovated. Walking exit is steep.

Special Use Permits

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.

All persons entering caves are required to be screened for White-Nose Syndrome, a disease deadly to bats, and if necessary to undergo approved decontamination procedures on footwear and equipment before entering any cave. Screening consists of answering a series of questions. For more information about the disease and park policies, click here.

Examples of permitted activities include:

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

Paul Cox, Fee Program Manager
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
3225 National Parks Highway
Carlsbad, New Mexico
575.785.3129 phone
575.785.2302 fax

Did You Know?

Evening bat flight at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Nearly 400,000 Brazilian (more commonly called Mexican) Free-tailed bats call Carlsbad Cavern home in the summer... and all they want to do each night is eat bugs... several tons of them!