Carlsbad Caverns National Park

We had a short twenty-some mile drive from Carlsbad Walmart to the caverns, arriving near 10a.m. The natural entrance was quite large leading down, down, down, along the main corridor 1.25 miles to the Big Room.

natural entrance

last remaining daylight as we descended

At the bottom of the main corridor looking back toward where we walked in

We actually rode the elevator back up to grab our pack lunch and eat outside in the picnic area. Then 755 ft back down the elevator to peruse the different formations dimly lit along the walkway: stalactites, stalagmites, straws, drapes, popcorn, pillars, and pearls. There was even part of the cave in the bathroom toilet stalls where they quit tiling. It was a joint bathroom entrance to conserve space, arousing giggles from the girls. 

Almost Incredible... Fascinating... Mesmerizing...Surreal.

A quote from the park brochure: "I am wholly conscious of the feebleness of my efforts to convey in words, the deep conflicting emotions, the feeling of fear and awe, and the desire for an inspired understanding of the Divine Creator's work which presents to the human eye such a complex aggregate of natural wonders."  Robert Holly 1923

We drove back north looking for the perfect BLM lake camping spot, but opted for the safer town Mall paved lot. Nothing spectacular, but suitable.

just part of the scene that made us reconsider this recommended spot...
AND target practice on all signs or things standing

Have you ever been to Carlsbad Caverns? What impressed you?