About Fort Stanton Cave Campground
Surrounding the Fort Stanton Cave Campground is the Fort Stanton Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area (NCA). At around 6300' elevation the NCA offers a diverse habitat of High Desert cedar/juniper hillsides with Ponderosa Pine stringers and hardwoods meandering through the canyon bottoms. Within the NCA is Fort Stanton Cave. At over 44 miles, it is the second longest cave in New Mexico, the 9th longest cave in the U.S., the 40th longest in the world, and the largest cave managed by the BLM. Fort Stanton Cave Campground features several shelters, tables and fire rings, as well as a vault toilet. All sites are dry and on a first-come, first-served basis. The access road off of U.S. Route 380 is graveled. This site provides a convenient location for camping, hiking, and exploring the history of the local area.
How to Get There
From the east side of Capitan, NM, drive east on US 380 for approximately 5.78 miles to Cave Canyon Rd. Once on Cave Canyon Rd. (to the right), drive approximately 1.12 miles to the campground. From the west side of Lincoln, NM, drive west on US 380 for approximately 6.18 miles to Cave Canyon Rd.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Fort Stanton Cave Campground
Heading to Fort Stanton Cave Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Fort Stanton Cave Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Fort Stanton Cave Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10083557) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Fort Stanton Cave Campground?
From the east side of Capitan, NM, drive east on US 380 for approximately 5.78 miles to Cave Canyon Rd. Once on Cave Canyon Rd. (to the right), drive approximately 1.12 miles to the campground. From the west side of Lincoln, NM, drive west on US 380 for approximately 6.18 miles to Cave Canyon Rd.
How do I contact Fort Stanton Cave Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 575-322-0030 or email: BLM_NM_PDO_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
