Horse Camping Near Carlsbad Caverns: Frijole Horse Camp
If you're looking to explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park and need a place to camp with horses, your best bet may actually be just down the road at Guadalupe Mountains National Park—about a 45-minute drive from the Caverns Visitor Center, roughly the same distance as from Carlsbad, NM.
Frijole Horse Camp at Guadalupe Mountains NP
The official equestrian campground in the area is the Frijole Horse Corral Campground, located just a mile from the Pine Springs Visitor Center in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This site is primitive but horse-friendly, with:
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4 corrals
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Room for up to 10 horses
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Vault toilets
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Trailer parking
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No potable water (bring your own)
The campground allows up to 6 people and 10 stock animals, and is by reservation only through Recreation.gov. It offers access to designated equestrian trails within the park, like the Tejas, Blue Ridge, and Bush Mountain trails—ideal for riders looking for backcountry desert adventures.
BLM Land Option
While staying at Guadalupe, I overheard rangers mention overflow camping on nearby BLM land, accessible at approximately mile marker 5 between Guadalupe and Carlsbad Caverns. This land is undeveloped and first-come, first-served—perfect for rough camping if you’re self-contained. However, policies on horse use there aren’t posted, so it’s smart to call ahead for clarification.
Final Tip
Though Carlsbad Caverns doesn’t have official equestrian sites, Frijole Horse Camp is a well-placed basecamp for riders who want to explore both parks. The rangers at Guadalupe tend to be flexible and helpful—so don’t hesitate to call and ask questions. A little insider info can go a long way when you’re planning a ride in the high desert.
