Rattlesnake Springs Historic District

Rattlesnake Springs is a historic district in Eddy County with a natural water source and buildings from the 1930s, located within Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The area includes residential structures, utility buildings, and irrigation systems that shape the appearance of an early park development site.

William Henry Harrison built the first irrigation system at this spring in 1880 to use the water supply. The National Park Service later took over the system to supply Carlsbad Caverns National Park and continued developing the site.

The buildings showcase Pueblo Revival and Territorial Revival styles, designed by Park Service architects Ken Saunders and Del Jones. These structures shape how visitors experience the district and reflect how architects blended local traditions with the needs of a developing park.

A visit combines easily with a Carlsbad Caverns tour since the site lies within the park boundaries. Early morning or late afternoon is best for visiting, when temperatures are milder and wildlife watching is more rewarding.

The wetland is fed by a natural spring and supports over 350 bird species plus numerous amphibians in the otherwise dry Chihuahuan Desert. This rich animal life exists because the water transforms what would otherwise be barren landscape.

Location: Eddy County

GPS coordinates: 32.11000,-104.46778

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:44