Capulin Volcano National Monument
Capulin, NM
A young cinder cone with a road spiraling to the rim and a one-mile trail around the crater. On clear days you see into four states.
Capulin Volcano National Monument is a volcanic national monument in northeastern New Mexico. It lies about 30 miles (roughly 48 km) east of Raton on US 64/87; from there you drive 3 miles north on NM 325 to the entrance. The visitor center at the western foot of the volcano shows an audiovisual program on volcanism.
The Crater Rim Trail leads to the volcano's highest point. In clear weather, the National Park Service says, the view reaches into four states: mountains in Colorado, volcanoes in New Mexico, Black Mesa in Oklahoma and land beyond Rabbit Ear Mountain in Texas, plus mountains some 80 miles away. Traces of historic overland routes are said to be visible from Volcano Road and the Crater Rim Trail.
Opening hours and fees change with the season, so check with the park beforehand. If you travel in a large motorhome, ask in advance about the road to the crater rim.
- Nearest town
- Capulin, NM
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 36.7810, -103.9700
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June, September and November. Hot in July–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Capulin RV ParkMotorhome stopover3 mi from Capulin Volcano National MonumentMotorhomes
All campsites in New Mexico · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Capulin Volcano National Monument?
Capulin Volcano National Monument is in Capulin, NM, at GPS 36.7810, -103.9700. It is about 27 mi from Raton.
Can you camp near Capulin Volcano National Monument?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Capulin RV Park, about 3 mi away; within 25 mi there are 1 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Capulin Volcano National Monument?
Capulin Volcano National Monument is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: On the Santa Fe Trail: Trinidad to Santa Fe.
What is there to see near Capulin Volcano National Monument?
Places worth a stop nearby: Black Mesa State Park (60 mi), Eagle Nest Lake State Park (74 mi), Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park (76 mi) and Fort Union National Monument (84 mi).
When is the best time to visit Capulin Volcano National Monument?
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in June, September and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)