Last updated: February 5, 2021
Thing to Do
Explore the Visitor Center at Capulin Volcano
The Visitor Center, located at the base of Capulin Volcano, serves as the park's main educational center and an interactive learning area for visitors of all ages. In addition to an information desk and bookstore, the Visitor Center contains exhibits, a touch table, and dioramas about geology, natural history and the human history of Capulin Volcano. A small auditorium also provides opportunities for ranger-led programs and video presentations on a variety of topics. The 10 minute film shown in the Visitor Center auditorium on a loop details the story of Capulin's eruption and the surrounding Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field. The film features the area’s dramatic volcanic landscape and the unique habitat, rich with life, existing on this mountain of ash and cinder.
The Western National Parks Association store in the Visitor Center carries books, souvenirs, postcards, and numerous other items related to the park and its many stories. Items are available for children and adults with an educational focus. Books and information are also available on the surrounding region and other nearby National Park sites. A portion of all sales benefits the park's interpretive program.
The Western National Parks Association store in the Visitor Center carries books, souvenirs, postcards, and numerous other items related to the park and its many stories. Items are available for children and adults with an educational focus. Books and information are also available on the surrounding region and other nearby National Park sites. A portion of all sales benefits the park's interpretive program.
Details
Duration
5-30 Minutes
Spend time reading all the exhibits and watching the park film or just glance at the volcanic rock here.
Activity
Museum Exhibits
Explore exhibits that describe the eruption of Capulin Volcano and this area's rich history. Touch different examples of volcanic rock and explore an interactive map of the public lands in New Mexico. Watch a 10 minute film in the auditorium to get an introduction to the landscape of Capulin Volcano.
Age(s)
0-99
All ages are welcome in the visitor center.
Pets Allowed
No
Service animals are welcome, but pets are not allowed in the visitor center.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Visitor Center
At the base of the volcano, the visitor center is the first building seen as you enter the National Monument.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
The visitor center is open all year long, though it may be closed for inclement weather. Check the park website for current hours. It is also closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
The visitor center can be accessed from a paved cement sidewalk with ramps from the parking area. There are two accessible parking spaces in the parking area. The entrance doorways to the visitor center are 5 feet wide. The inside of the visitor center is flat tile and carpet all on one level (no steps). There are 3 foot wide spaces between all exhibits and the doorway to the auditorium is 3 feet wide.