Preventative Measures Implemented at Carlsbad Caverns National Park Due to Increased Fire Danger 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park News Release 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 22, 2024

Contact: Carmen Chapin, Superintendent, carmen_chapin@nps.gov

Preventative Measures Implemented Due to Increased Fire Danger 

CARLSBAD, New Mexico—Due to high to extreme fire danger, Carlsbad Caverns National Park will implement the following preventative measures beginning on May 23: 

• Fire, charcoal, and propane grills are prohibited
• Smoking is prohibited, except inside personal vehicles 
• Open flames and cooking stoves are prohibited in the backcountry 

The increased fire danger is due to prolonged hot, dry, and windy weather. These factors result in extremely dry vegetation that is highly susceptible to even the smallest spark.

These measures will be in effect until the fire danger subsides. Please visit http://www.nps.gov/cave for more information.

–NPS–