Carlsbad is in
Eddy County, and in the
Southeast New Mexico region (is the county seat). It lies on the banks of the
Pecos River south of
Roswell, between Whites City and
Hobbs. Carlsbad also is along U.S. Highway 62 near Avalon Reservoir and Salt Lake, just north of the Texas state line.
Founded around 1888, the settlement was named Eddy after local livestock entrepreneurs Charles B. and John Eddy. In 1899 it was renamed after a Bohemian (now Czech Republic) spa, due to area mineral springs.
Today Carlsbad, population 25,625, is sustained by potash mining and refining, agriculture and tourism. The Pecos provides sustenance to residents and visitors as it winds through Carlsbad.
The area offers desert recreation at such locations as Pecos River Beach & Picnic Area and Living Desert State Park. The famous Carlsbad Caverns are nearby. Another point of interest is the Southwest New Mexico National Environmental Technology & Training Center. The community enjoys sunshine 350 days a year.