Natural swimming hole
Sitting Bull Falls
Waterfall · New Mexico
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
A 150-foot desert waterfall pouring into travertine pools in the Guadalupe Mountains. Sitting Bull Falls' pools are swimmable in the designated areas, though the plunge pool directly beneath the falls is off-limits. The oasis setting, with cottonwoods and canyon walls, is pure Chihuahuan Desert magic.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Depth | wading to ~10 ft in pools |
| Best season | March-October |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | sunrise-sunset |
| Parking | Day-use lot |
| Amenities | restrooms, picnic tables |
| County | Eddy County |
| Nearest town | Carlsbad |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; swimming restricted near falls; slippery travertine |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Sitting Bull Falls?
Yes — Sitting Bull Falls is listed as a natural swimming spot in New Mexico. Heads-up: No lifeguard; swimming restricted near falls; slippery travertine. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Sitting Bull Falls require reservations?
No reservations are required at Sitting Bull Falls based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Sitting Bull Falls?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Sitting Bull Falls?
The best season is typically March-October.