Capulin · Northeast NM

Capulin is a small community in Union County named for the nearby volcano by Hispanic settlers after the Civil War. The town of 61 residents lies just south of Capulin Volcano National Monument, part of the vast Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field.

Capulin Volcano National Monument offers rim drives, hiking trails, and panoramic views across four states. Visitors enjoy the monument's Gold-Tier dark skies through ranger-led star parties and astronomy programs. Our database events such as Dark Sky Night, Sunset hike, Volcano Fest!, Astronomy Festival, and Moonlight Hike take place here throughout the year.

No food service operates inside the monument, though the visitor center offers limited snacks and water refill. The nearest restaurant is the Sierra Grande Restaurant in nearby Des Moines, open year-round for meals; additional options lie in Raton and Clayton.

Capulin Volcano National Monument sits on State Highway 325, three miles north of U.S. Highway 64/87. The park lies roughly 30 miles east of Raton and 40 miles west of Clayton.

No lodging or camping is available inside Capulin Volcano National Monument. Developed campgrounds exist in the surrounding area, while motels and hotels can be found in the nearby towns of Raton and Clayton.

This corner of New Mexico reflects the state's high-desert ranching and volcanic heritage. Respect all posted rules at the national monument, especially during night-sky events.

The monument remains open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, with vehicle access to the rim from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Clear, dry conditions favor stargazing any season, though winter weather can affect road access.