The Mudgetts WSA is located in southern New Mexico about 30 miles southwest of the city of Carlsbad. The WSA is contiguous with Carlsbad Wilderness (managed by the National Park Service). The area is characterized by steeply rolling limestone hills and canyons covered in desert shrubs and cactus with scattered sotol, a
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
This site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- Source Official / Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.blm.gov ↗
- Contact 575-234-5972
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Mudgetts Wilderness Study Area — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Mudgetts Wilderness Study Area?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Juniper Ridge Trail. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
NPS / Michael Larson National Park Service Carlsbad Caverns National Park
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $1 park entrance fee.
La Cueva Non-Motorized Trail System
ConfirmedThis site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.