Carlsbad RV Park and Campground (14-18 Apr 23)
And onward we go! Our first trip into New Mexico was a stop in Carlsbad. Everyone is aware of the Carlsbad Caverns National Park and that was our driving factor in stopping here. And good thing that was our goal because there is not a whole lot else to see! Don’t get me wrong. Carlsbad is actually a nice little town and has much potential, especially when it comes to the biking/walking trails and business potential. And we also sought out the only craft brewery that we could find in town.
So, without further delay, I will write about the sequence of events as they unfolded in Carlsbad. First stop, perhaps not accidentally, was “Milton’s Brewing” located in the heart of downtown. Great little brew pub and Sam, our bartender, was a fountain of knowledge on the beer offerings. He was also interesting to talk to regarding his past association with the Navy and life in San Diego. As far as the beer – Tina had the sampler and decided her favorite was the ‘Caveman Cream Ale.’ For me, it was the ‘Karlsbad Kolsch’ all day long!
We have mentioned it in the past, but another of our favorite reasons to visit local micro-breweries is meeting other customers, especially other RVers, which happens often. On this particular day, we met two separate couples and compared notes about our travels. We thought it was cool that Laura was on her way to Bandera, TX for the “Texas Bluebonnet Casita Rally.” For those that are not aware, Tina’s folks are longtime residents of Bandera, and we just spent the majority of the winter season there. Small world! Laura is traveling with Jeff – sort of, as they are in individual rigs, but they are coordinating meeting locations over the summer. We also met Charlie and Tammy who are out on their summer trip in their Class ‘A’. They are headed to the Grand Canyon over the same dates as we are, and we look forward to meeting up with them there!
As you know, (pretend you do), we do like to get in a nice bike ride when we can and where there are prepared bike trails. Carlsbad is no exception and there are several choices. We chose the Riverwalk Trail which follows the shoreline of a small lake formed by a dam on the feeder river (Pecos?) just on the edge of town. It was an easy, scenic drive with parks, a beach and a couple of eateries. The potential that I mentioned earlier goes to the pollution in the water and opportunities for other businesses to fill vacant storefronts. There were numerous species of ducks and geese along the drive as well as much fishing, so the possibilities are there. It would be nice to see the water cleaned up because it would make a 1000% difference in the appearance! Otherwise, the weather was perfect and the ride was easy!
On our final day, we visited the reason for this stop – “Carlsbad Caverns National Park” about half an hour south of camp. The weather was awesome and the drive was scenic for it being in the middle of the desert! Scenic . . .but barren! The caverns on the other hand were spectacular! This year is also the centennial anniversary of caverns which was started in 1923. Doubtless, there have been many changes since then, but the self-guided tour we took today was incredible. I will attach way too many pics with this article, and I am sure I did not do the actual experience justice. Being 800 feet underground in these cathedral rooms and formations is memorable and will be the highlight of this stop.
The “Carlsbad RV Park and Campground” was a great campground. Another Good Sam campground, it has ample parking sites, cable TV, some shade and a very courteous and helpful staff. Near town and close to restaurants, stores, etc., it is an easy in and out campground. Would stay here again if in the area!
Camping up with the Joneses 