Carlsbad Caverns National Park Backcountry Camping

Yes you can camp at Carlsbad Caverns National Park with their free Backcountry Camping options. Near Whites City New Mexico the National Park provides primitive hike in free camping on a permit basis in designated areas within the National Park. Backcountry camping is intended for individuals and small groups (less than 10). Campsites can only be placed at least 100 feet off established trails, 300 feet from any water source or cave entrance and a half mile or 2,600 feet from any road or parking lot. Backcountry camping is only allowed west of Rattlesnake Canyon trailhead off the Desert Scenic Loop Road and south of the Guadalupe Ridge Trail to the park boundary for approximately two miles, after which camping is allowed both north and south of the trail. No fires, pets, or vehicle based camping is allowed. Stock animals may be used with special permission and permits.