Capulin Volcano only accepts credit/debit cards for entrance fees. Our cooperating association Park Store accepts cash, credit/debit cards, and checks. There are limited cash only entrance passes available through our cooperating association Park Store.
Full details →+2 more active alerts
Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
Located in New Mexico, Capulin Volcano National Monument preserves a remarkably unique landscape. Unlike typical tourist hubs, this national monument is cherished by locals and outdoor enthusiasts for its quiet trails, scenic views, and raw natural beauty.
About Capulin Volcano National Monument
Capulin Volcano National Monument is a national monument located in New Mexico. Elevations range from 7247 feet at the park visitor center to 8182 feet on the crater rim trail. Summers usually have mild temperatures with highs averaging in the low to mid 80s F/30C with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Winters average from 40F/5C to 50F/10C, but temperatures vary. Snowfall is most common from December into April and may cause temporary closures of the volcano road. Sunny winter days are beautiful days to be in the park. Check weather conditions before visiting.
Capulin Volcano National Monument is located in northeast New Mexico. The monument is located 33 miles east of Raton, NM, and 57 miles west of Clayton, NM on NM325 3 miles north of US64. No public transportation systems serve the park.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
General entry to Entrance - Education/Academic Groups is free. General admission passes are not required.
🥾 Things to Do
Capulin Volcano National Monument offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Astronomy, Stargazing, Biking, Road Biking, and 9 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Capulin Volcano
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Capulin Volcano
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Capulin Volcano before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 3 active alerts for Capulin Volcano. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Altitude & Hydration: The thin air and dry heat in this region will dehydrate you quickly. Pack at least 3 to 4 liters of water per person per day and pack electrolyte replacements.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Capulin Volcano. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Part of the 8,000 square mile Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field, Capulin Volcano showcases the volcanic geology of northeastern New Mexico. The views are spectacular day or night, with views of 4 different states from the volcanic rim and one of the darkest night skies in the country. Whether it's a quick stop or a day's trip, enjoy exploring the landscape of this unique volcano!
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Capulin Volcano
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
More Parks Nearby
Butterfield Overland
In 1857, businessman and transportation entrepreneur John Butterfield was awarded a contract to establish an overland mail route between the…
Carlsbad Caverns
High ancient sea ledges, deep rocky canyons, flowering cactus, and desert wildlife—treasures above the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert. Hidden…
Chaco Culture
Explore the monumental structures and breathtaking landscape at Chaco, a thriving regional center for the ancestral Pueblo people from 850…
El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro
Travel along El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail to experience and learn from a complicated legacy of…
El Malpais
The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais (el-mal-pie-EES) offers solitude, recreation, and adventure. Explore incredible geologic features such as…
Fort Union
Exposed to the wind, within a sweeping valley of short grass prairie, and along the eroded Santa Fe Trail, lie…