A system of dams and spillways on the Pecos River created the 2-mile-long Lake Carlsbad immediately east of downtown, which holds pleasant trails along its two banks, with playgrounds, picnic tables and swimming areas.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
21.9 MILES
While a cave might not sound quite as sexy as redwoods, geysers or the Grand Canyon, there’s no question that this one measures up on the national parks’…
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
3.48 MILES
Northwest of town, this state park is a great place to see and learn about reptiles and roadrunners, wolves and elk, along with desert plants such as…
0.98 MILES
This museum displays Apache artifacts, pioneer memorabilia from the region and paintings by artists from the Taos School. Ask staff about the resident…
Nearby Southeastern New Mexico attractions
1. Carlsbad Museum & Art Center
0.98 MILES
This museum displays Apache artifacts, pioneer memorabilia from the region and paintings by artists from the Taos School. Ask staff about the resident…
2. Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
3.48 MILES
Northwest of town, this state park is a great place to see and learn about reptiles and roadrunners, wolves and elk, along with desert plants such as…
3. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
21.9 MILES
While a cave might not sound quite as sexy as redwoods, geysers or the Grand Canyon, there’s no question that this one measures up on the national parks’…