Carlsbad Caverns National Park has no in-park lodging or campgrounds, but outside of the park are options for both.

While the park offers no overnight lodging or campgrounds itself, the option to camp in the park's rugged backcountry is allowed with the proper permit, which can be picked up for free at the visitor center for free when you arrive; however, you cannot reserve them.

According to park staff:

• 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 (3.2 kilometers), after which camping is allowed both north and south of the trail.
• Campsites must be located at least 100 feet (30.5 meters) off established trails, 300 feet (91.4 meters) from any water source or cave entrance and a half mile (0.8 kilometer) or 2,600 feet (792.5 meters) from any road or parking lot.
• Backcountry camping groups are limited to 10 people. Larger groups must hike and camp at least one-quarter mile (0.4 kilometer) apart in separate areas.
• The permit holder must be 18 years of age or older.
• The maximum stay is seven consecutive nights.
• Vehicle or RV camping is prohibited. Camping is not allowed in any other area, including along any roads, in any parking lot or trailhead.
• No open fires are allowed.
• Pets are not permitted in the back country (hiking or camping).

A few other things to keep in mind:

• Do not disturb or collect any plants, animals, minerals, or cultural artifacts.
• Entering backcountry caves without written permission of the Superintendent is prohibited.
• Saddle and stock use is permitted, in designated areas, under special rules and regulations. Advance arrangements are required.
• Please report all accidents, fires, injuries, lost persons, or other emergencies to a park ranger.
• Mountain bikes and motorized vehicles are prohibited on all park trails.
• Lock your vehicle and take valuable items with you.

The park does not permit overnight RV parking.

Available to visitors interested in an overnight stay are the nearby campground and amenities about 7 miles (11 kilometers) away from the visitor center in Whites City, New Mexico. Also located here is the White's City Cavern Inn.

Carlsbad, New Mexico, located about 20 miles (32 kilometers) northeast of the park on Highway 62/180, has several lodging options. 

The park is surrounded by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and they allow permit-free RV/tent camping. Contact the local Carlsbad BLM office for more information at 575-234-5972.

Or, consider exploring another national treasure and drive 40 minutes to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, where camping is permitted.