The United States is home to some of the most gorgeous, mesmerizing beaches. However, if you truly want to see a marvel, White Sands National Park in New Mexico is a sight to behold. This stunning and unique national park features miles of beautiful gypsum sand that is fascinating, beautiful, and inspiring.
White Sands National Park is located in the southern part of New Mexico, outside of the town of Alamogordo.
The Open Road Images Via Getty Images This National Park is located in the Tularosa Basin and it’s one of the country’s most recently dedicated parks.
This gorgeous region was preserved as a national park in 2019, but it has been drawing visitors for generations.
Mark Newman/The Image Bank Via Getty Images
This sprawling sand dune system is not only breathtaking and beautiful, but it is also unique. You won’t find another area like it.
Hundley_Photography/ iStock Via Getty Images Plus This national park features white gypsum sand. This sand is incredibly rare, as it dissolves when it comes in contact with water.
White Sands National park features 275 square miles of this gorgeous, white sand. However, a large portion of it is off-limits to visitors, as it has been preserved for the plants and animals in the area.
Peter Unger/ Stone Via Getty Images
Fear not, though! There are a lot of ways in which you can experience this unique ecosystem. There is much more to do than just bask in the beauty of the White Sands National Park.
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Backcountry camping, cycling, and horseback riding are popular activities in the park.
Carrie M. Cooper/ iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Hiking the gorgeous gypsum dunes is a must-do activity as you explore this national park.
CHBD/ E+ Via Getty Images There are five established trails in the national park. This includes the Playa Trail, Dune Life Nature Trail, Backcountry Camping Trail, Alkali Flat Trail, and the Interdune Boardwalk.
The Interdune Boardwalk is ideal for individuals with mobility challenges and for strollers.
Peter Unger/ Stone Via Getty Images
Make sure you bring a sled on this memorable outdoor adventure!
R. Tyler Gross/Cavan Via Getty Images Sledding down the gypsum dunes is one of the most popular activities at White Sands National Park. There are designated areas in the national park for sledding. These areas are away from wildlife and plants, so you don’t have to worry about your ecological impact.
If you want to experience as much as possible at this national park, take the 16-mile Dunes Drive.
Mark Newman/ The Image Bank Via Getty Images This scenic drive takes just under one hour and is the perfect way to capture gorgeous photos, see remarkable wildlife, and find some stunning picnic areas.
This is one bucket list destination where you certainly will want your camera. The sand creates some stunning images and you may see more than 600 different species of animals during your visit.
Paul Omernik/ Moment Via Getty Images
There are no hotels or RV/car camping options at the White Sands National Park, so if you’re staying the night, be prepared to tough it out and camp in the backcountry.
ferrantraite/ E+ Via Getty Images If you would rather enjoy modern amenities, you can find several private and public campgrounds outside of the park. You will also find luxurious lodging in nearby towns.
If you want to stay overnight in the dunes, backcountry camping will give you astounding views.
CHBD/ E+ Via Getty Images
While the night sky is absolutely stunning, make sure you are up early to catch a gorgeous sunrise over the white sand dunes. The colors and reflections of the sky are a sight you’re sure to always remember.
Thomas Roche/ Moment Via Getty Images
Visiting White Sands National Park is educational, beautiful, and memorable. You’ll want to plan multiple visits to this national park to truly experience all it has to offer.
The Open Road Images Via Getty Images
This National Park is located in the Tularosa Basin and it’s one of the country’s most recently dedicated parks.
Mark Newman/The Image Bank Via Getty Images
Hundley_Photography/ iStock Via Getty Images Plus
This national park features white gypsum sand. This sand is incredibly rare, as it dissolves when it comes in contact with water.
Peter Unger/ Stone Via Getty Images
Raphael Leite/ 500px Prime Via Getty Images
Carrie M. Cooper/ iStock Via Getty Images Plus
CHBD/ E+ Via Getty Images
There are five established trails in the national park. This includes the Playa Trail, Dune Life Nature Trail, Backcountry Camping Trail, Alkali Flat Trail, and the Interdune Boardwalk.
R. Tyler Gross/Cavan Via Getty Images
Sledding down the gypsum dunes is one of the most popular activities at White Sands National Park. There are designated areas in the national park for sledding. These areas are away from wildlife and plants, so you don’t have to worry about your ecological impact.
Mark Newman/ The Image Bank Via Getty Images
This scenic drive takes just under one hour and is the perfect way to capture gorgeous photos, see remarkable wildlife, and find some stunning picnic areas.
Paul Omernik/ Moment Via Getty Images
ferrantraite/ E+ Via Getty Images
If you would rather enjoy modern amenities, you can find several private and public campgrounds outside of the park. You will also find luxurious lodging in nearby towns.
CHBD/ E+ Via Getty Images
Thomas Roche/ Moment Via Getty Images
General Information:
Accessibility: White Sands National Park is accessible to those with mobility and visual impairments. The visitor’s center, gift shop, museum, and other main areas are wheelchair accessible. The Interdune boardwalk is a wheelchair-accessible trail and you can find wheelchair-accessible restrooms and picnic tables in the park as well.
Pet-Friendly: White Sands National Park is pet-friendly. You are welcome to bring your furry family member on your adventure if your pet is kept on a leash at all times. Keep in mind that no animals are allowed in the visitor center or the gift shop. Read here to learn more about the pet guidelines in this national park.
Parking: There are several parking areas throughout White Sands National Park, making it easy to view the incredible scenery and complete all desired activities. There is no public transportation inside this national park.
Seasonal Access: White Sands National Park is opened year-round except for December 25. Park hours are affected by the time of year. Some national holidays may also affect park hours.
The nearby White Sands Missile Range conducts missile tests on a frequent basis. During these tests, certain parts of the park may be closed. Some outdoor activities may also be prohibited at this time. Visit here to learn more about upcoming park closures and the current hours of the park.
Cost: There is a $25 entrance fee for each vehicle entering the park. This fee will provide valid entry for up to seven consecutive days in the park. If camping, you will be required to pay an entrance fee into the park as well as a camping fee. You must pay a $3 camping fee for each camper over the age of 16 and $1.50 for each camper under the age of 15. Be aware that certain activities such as commercial photography, weddings, or staying late in the park require additional fees and permits.
Have you ever been to White Sands National Park? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Click here to learn more about this incredible and fascinating national park.
Feeling inspired to fill your Bucket List? Check out our previous feature of Maroon Bells in Colorado, Ruby Falls in Tennessee, and Acadia National Park in Maine, then subscribe to our weekly Bucket List newsletter to discover new destinations across the country that definitely deserve a visit.
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Address: White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA
