Capulin Volcano National Monument
Capulin Volcano National Monument is a protected area in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 90/100 (≈ Bortle 2) — among the very darkest measurable skies in the American Southwest — the Milky Way casts visible shadows on moonless nights. The best month to come is typically September, when about 73% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 60/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 59%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at Capulin Volcano National Monument
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 58% | 60/100 |
| February | 63% | 63/100 |
| March | 65% | 64/100 |
| April | 65% | 65/100 |
| May | 60% | 61/100 |
| June | 60% | 61/100 |
| July | 56% | 59/100 |
| August | 59% | 60/100 |
| September ★ | 73% | 70/100 |
| October | 68% | 67/100 |
| November | 68% | 67/100 |
| December | 64% | 64/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near Capulin Volcano National Monument
Each place below is rated for the darkness at its own doorstep — stay dark, and the sky is yours from the parking lot.
- Check availability →
M&M Inn
12.5 km away · darkness at hotel: 81/100
Booking links are affiliate links — disclosure.
Nearby spots in New Mexico
- Clayton Lake State Park and Dinosaur Trackways — 63.5 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Lovers Leap — 99.8 km · Sky Score 64/100
- B-24 Wing — 105.8 km · Sky Score 64/100
- Cimarron Canyon State Park — 110.3 km · Sky Score 62/100
- Eagle Nest Lake State Park — 117.5 km · Sky Score 61/100