Carlsbad Caverns · May · New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns National Park in May
May is a prime month to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Crowds are moderate. Highs average 84°F and lows 59°F, with about 1.25 inches of rain.
May gets a prime rating at Carlsbad Caverns. The very best months are May–Oct.
Prime season starts Best value
What to expect
May is prime at Carlsbad Caverns. The bats return to the cave in April and May, and the evening bat flight programs start.
Walk in via the Natural Entrance (about a 1.25-mile steep descent) and ride the elevator out. It's the best way to grasp the scale.
Good to know
- Best months overall: May–Oct.
- Closest airport: El Paso (ELP), about 2.5 hours.
- Before you go: The park has used timed-entry reservations for the cave. Phones and cameras are not allowed at the bat flight. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Questions
Is May a good time to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park?
May is a prime month to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Crowds are moderate. Highs average 84°F and lows 59°F, with about 1.25 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Carlsbad Caverns National Park in May?
Highs average 84°F and lows 59°F, with about 1.25 inches of rain. May is rated prime for visiting.
How crowded is Carlsbad Caverns National Park in May?
Crowds are moderate in May.