Carlsbad Caverns National Park sits at 4,400 feet elevation in the Guadalupe Mountains of southeastern New Mexico. The desert landscape surrounding the park experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 100°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. During monsoon season (July-September), afternoon thunderstorms can develop rapidly, creating flash flood conditions in normally dry washes and arroyos near camping areas.
What to do
Explore Salt Flats: Located 45 minutes from Pine Top Wilderness Campground, these expansive salt flats offer unique photography opportunities. One visitor mentioned, "You must carry your own water in. These are primitive desert backpacking sites. Since it is the first camp at the end of a fairly tough hike, it is often full."
Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Camp between both national parks for maximum exploration. A camper at Sunset Reef Campground noted, "We stayed three nights for free while hiking and exploring Guadalupe Mountain NP and Carlsbad Caverns NP. Plenty of space and a room to let the dog explore. Close to both parks."
Catch a movie: The Fiesta Drive-In Theater in Carlsbad offers a nostalgic entertainment option after a day of caving. "Great clean campground with bathroom. Very open & no trees. Stayed here 3 nights in my vehicle mid-April 2025 while i visited the 2 National Parks in the area," shared a visitor who used Sunset Reef as their base.
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate no-cost sites. "This was by far one of my favorite spots and it's free. Just like a National park site. Just a pit toilet. No water. Beautiful spot sunset, sunrise and stars," wrote a camper about Sunset Reef Campground.
Secluded locations: For those seeking quiet alternatives to busy national park campgrounds, More Travel Less Talk provides tranquility. As one guest explained, "Great small family owned and lived at campground. A nice couple that has sites at their place literally setting right in front of the Guadalupe Mountains. This is a great option to the overcrowded Pine Springs Campground."
Covered picnic areas: Sun protection matters in this desert environment. "I didn't get a photo of the sign with the rules, but you are able to stay here for five nights for free. There are five tent pads and five pull-ins for RVs, but there were also RVs just parked on the edge wherever they wanted to be. We came here because each site has a SHELTER that kept the sun off of us for a few hours."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: High winds can impact camping comfort. A Pine Top camper warned, "The winds can be very brutal (50 mph plus)." Pack accordingly with sturdy tent stakes and low-profile gear.
Limited amenities: Many sites offer minimal facilities. According to a Sunset Reef visitor, "It is also worth noting that it's a byotp situation with the bathroom," so bring your own toilet paper and water.
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping requires advance planning. "You must get a permit from the rangers to camp here," advised a Pine Top visitor about the wilderness camping options within Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
Dark skies: The region offers exceptional stargazing opportunities away from Carlsbad RV Park & Campground. "Beautiful night sky's," noted one camper, while another mentioned, "The stars were stunning."
Tips for camping with families
Consider glamping accommodations: For families seeking comfort near Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico, various glamping options exist. One Carlsbad KOA guest shared, "We like having a bed to spread our sleeping bags out on sometimes, access to AC after a hot day of exploration and the kids like a chance to 'plug in' while we are unplugged."
Utilize playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. "The sites were spacious and the playground was great for the kids," wrote a Carlsbad KOA visitor.
Watch for wildlife: Turn animal spotting into an educational activity. A Pine Top camper noted, "If you are lucky you will see elk," while another mentioned, "The great tailed grackels were courting and whistling, quail wandered through and rabbits romped around our cabin" at Carlsbad KOA.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RVers appreciate Whites City RV Campground for its accessibility. "We moved from our free dispersed campsite to fill up, charge up, shower and do laundry. Very friendly staff and clean facilities," noted a visitor.
Late arrival planning: Many facilities have limited hours. "Located directly at the entrance to the Carlsbad Canyon National Park. Small restaurant across the street and a general store, gift shop and post office right next door," observed an RVer about Whites City.
Laundry facilities: Extended trips require clean clothes. A Carlsbad RV Park guest commented, "Huge laundry facility with a change machine," though they noted, "Laundry was $3.50 a load which felt a little steep comparatively, but the machines all worked so well and were clearly updated recently."
