Carlsbad Caverns
A cave so big you can walk in through its natural mouth, and a nightly summer bat flight.
2 national parks in New Mexico
National Parks in New Mexico
New Mexico has 2 national parks. Here's when each one is at its best, and the months that work for seeing several on one trip.
October is the best overall for New Mexico's parks. Carlsbad Caverns: May–Oct; White Sands: Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov.
Season calendar
The parks
White Sands
Brilliant white gypsum dunes you can sled down, any month of the year.
Road trips through New Mexico
West Texas & New Mexico
White gypsum dunes, a giant cave, the top of Texas and the dark-sky wilderness of Big Bend.
Nearby parks in other states
Guadalupe Mountains
Texas · Best Apr–May, Oct
Big Bend
Texas · Best Oct–Apr
Petrified Forest
Arizona · Best Apr–May, Oct
Saguaro
Arizona · Best Nov–Apr
Questions
How many national parks are in New Mexico?
New Mexico has 2 national parks: Carlsbad Caverns National Park, White Sands National Park.
When is the best time to visit national parks in New Mexico?
October is the best overall for New Mexico's parks. Carlsbad Caverns: May–Oct; White Sands: Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov.
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.