Carlsbad, NM
We spent 2.5 days in Carlsbad Caverns, and it was incredible! It started off a bit rough though.
Liz found a remote boondocking campsite through Campendium, and followed a bumpy rock path and instructions like “turn right at the cow gate” to reach it. We were also getting hit with ~50 mph gusts of wind broadside and had to reorient the trailer for safety.
It was too late to enter the cave, but the visitor center was still open. James earned another Junior Ranger Badge, and Liz and I even decided to earn our first. Doing the activities helped me recognize the formations in the cave and enjoy the tours more.
On day two, we entered the cave through the Natural Entrance (1.25 mi) and then circled the entire Big Room (1.25 mi). We could go at our own pace, so the kids did really well.
Pool of water. I loved the deep greens and blues in the middle of darkness. 
Almost like a map of the cave inside the cave. 
“Lions tail” from popcorn on the end of a stalactite. 
Ben liked the “jellyfish”
On day three, we joined a Ranger for a tour of the King’s Palace. We strolled under giant draperies in the Queen’s Room and even saw cave bacon. The lights went out unexpectedly (it’s a normal part of the tour, but I didn’t hear the ranger because the kids wouldn’t stop talking) and we sat in pitch blackness and blissful silence for a good minute.
The bashful elephant 
Cave bacon 
Drapery in the Queen’s Room 
Green Lake 
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