Parks Ranch Cave

BLM Bureau of Land Management · Carlsbad, NM · Dispersed

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Conditions

Road Access Not recorded
Season Not recorded
Campfires Not recorded
Boondock Access Not recorded

The managing agency hasn't published road access, season or campfire rules for this campground. The description and directions below often mention it — and it's worth calling the agency before a long drive.

Features

Style Boondocking

Campground Stats

Total Sites0

Location

32.11069, -104.40678 · Carlsbad Field Office , Carlsbad , NM 88220

Description

A gypsum cave with over four miles of mapped passage and twenty different entrances, it is the longest gypsum cave on public land in the United States. Groups of all experience levels can find something to enjoy in Parks Ranch Cave. No permit is required for this cave.

Always cave with at least three people, three sources of light, and let someone know where you are going and when you are expected to return. Animals frequently use the cave entrances, so use caution when you approach. Watch and listen for animals such as owls, bats, snakes, and more. Parks Ranch Cave takes on water when it rains, so do not enter if rain is forecasted for the area.

What to Bring 

  • Helmet with headlamp to keep your noggin safe and provide hands-free lighting. 

  • Gloves for hand protection 

  • Elbow pads to help in tight climb 

  • Kneepads for protection in crawls 

  • Sturdy boots to provide good support and traction 

Directions

Parks Ranch Cave is located about 25 miles southwest of Carlsbad, NM. From Carlsbad, take US 62/180 west for about 26 miles until mile marker 9, Dillahunty Road. Use the crossing to turn and travel north on US 62/180 for one mile. At mile marker 10, turn right onto a gravel road. Cross the cattle guard and turn left. Travel one third of a mile, then turn right. Drive approximately nine tenths of a mile and you will see the chain link fences surrounding the main cave entrances.

Activities

CAVING Dispersed Camping HIKING WILDLIFE VIEWING

Details

FeeNo
Stay Limit14 Days
Phone575-234-5972
Email[email protected]
ADA AccessNo

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