When is entrance fee-free at Carlsbad Caverns in 2026?

Direct answer

February 16, 2026, May 25, 2026, June 14, 2026, July 3, 2026, July 4, 2026, July 5, 2026, August 25, 2026, September 17, 2026, October 27, 2026, November 11, 2026

Published dates

February 16, 2026
May 25, 2026
June 14, 2026
July 3, 2026
July 4, 2026
July 5, 2026
August 25, 2026
September 17, 2026
October 27, 2026
November 11, 2026

CRITICAL: an America the Beautiful pass covers the $15 entrance fee but does NOT cover the $1 timed entry reservation required to enter Carlsbad Cavern. Pass holders still have to book a timed entry reservation. The 2026 fee-free-day banner explicitly warns that timed entry or reservation fees may still apply.

Official source

National Park Service · reviewed August 27, 2026

All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to US citizens and residents (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply).

Official fee-free-day policy