Campsite · Southeast NM
Hackberry Lake Off-Highway Vehicle Use Area
Over 55,000 acres of rolling stabilized dune lands and cliffs, open for intensive use of motorcycles, sand dune buggies and other OHVs. Stay limit: 7 Days.
Fee
Carlsbad · Southeast NM
Carlsbad is the county seat of Eddy County, New Mexico, with a population of 32,238 at an elevation of 3,127 ft. Founded in 1888 as Eddy, the city serves as the gateway to Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Overview
Carlsbad is the county seat of Eddy County, New Mexico. As of the 2020 census, the city population was 32,238. Carlsbad sits at an elevation of 3,127 ft (953 m). Founded in 1888 as Eddy and incorporated in 1893, it is known for being the gateway to Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Things to Do
Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers trails for visitors. The Hackberry Lake Off-Highway Vehicle Use Area provides a campsite, while Mudgetts Wilderness Study Area features a trail.
Frequently asked
What county is Carlsbad the seat of?
Carlsbad is the county seat of Eddy County, New Mexico.
What was the population of Carlsbad in 2020?
As of the 2020 census, the city population was 32,238.
What is Carlsbad known for?
Carlsbad is known for being the gateway to Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Upcoming events in Carlsbad
No upcoming events listed in Carlsbad right now — see what's on statewide.
Outdoor activities near Carlsbad
- Trail · Southeast NM
Mudgetts Wilderness Study Area
In southern New Mexico about 30 miles southwest of Carlsbad.
- Trail · Southeast NM
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
One of the world's great cave systems beneath the Chihuahuan Desert. Hike the steep Natural Entrance Trail or take the elevator to the Big Room Trail; timed-entry reservations are required to enter the cave.
Fee
Sources & verification
Every fact below was independently verified against the cited source.
- Carlsbad is the county seat of Eddy County, New Mexico. en.wikipedia.org · verified June 12, 2026
- As of the 2020 census, the city population was 32,238. en.wikipedia.org · verified June 12, 2026
- Carlsbad sits at an elevation of 3,127 ft (953 m). en.wikipedia.org · verified June 12, 2026
- Carlsbad was founded in 1888 as Eddy and incorporated in 1893. en.wikipedia.org · verified June 12, 2026
- Carlsbad is known for being the gateway to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. nps.gov · verified June 12, 2026