White Sands National Park is exactly how it sounds — a park of white sand. Miles and miles of it. It’s one of two national parks in New Mexico and definitely worth a visit if you ever find yourself in the state. White Sands National Park is surprisingly easy to cover in just a few hours. Here’s what to do at White Sands National Park if you have just one day or less.
About White Sands National Park
What makes White Sands so special?
- The gypsum sand in White Sands National Park is rare as it can dissolve as easily as sugar in tea.
- This white gypsum sand covers 275 square miles of White Sands National Park.
- The beautiful, rare phenomenon of white sands has attracted thousands of people each year.
- White Sands finally became an official national park (instead of a national monument) in 2019.
What to Do at White Sands National Park
You really only need a day to explore White Sands National Park.
It’s not a large park, and the white sand dunes are really all there is to see.
That’s not to say it isn’t worth it!
We drove almost 800 miles and 12 hours from California to visit White Sands National Park, and I’d do it again in a heart beat.
Here is what to do at White Sands National Park.
1. Drive Dunes Drive
There is one main road that goes through White Sands National Park. It’s called Dunes Drive, and it is 8 miles long.
The cement road ends toward the back of the park and becomes a sandy road.
The road is suitable for all cars but it can be closed during inclement weather.
It doesn’t take long to drive the whole road, but it’s definitely recommended to make the whole drive to get a feel for the park.
Always check the park website for updated information before arriving.
2. Take Photos in the Sand Dunes
Photographing the white sand dunes should be number one on your list of things to do.
While there were quite a lot of people when we visited, it’s easy to find your own stretch of sand to take pictures without crowds.
Drive to the end of the park and start walking over the sand dunes — eventually you’ll find some space to yourself!
I brought my tripod in for this so my mom and I could take pictures together without having to ask anyone to do it for us.
It was a lot of fun to photograph the white sand dunes — they’re beautiful.
We also arrived a few hours before sunset and the sky that day was this dark, cloudy, moody scene.
3. Go Sand Sledding
The most popular activity is sand sledding.
You can purchase sand sleds in the visitor center but go early as the lines can get really long.
You can also bring your own sleds from home, but remember these dunes are made of sand not snow! So you’ll need a special wax in order for them to slide faster.
Check out this NPS video for more information about sand sledding.
4. Walk the Interdune Boardwalk
Sand can be tricky to walk on, so if you get tired of it, you can head to the Interdune Boardwalk.
It’s a nice little walk over the sand dunes that is accessible.
5. Take a Hike
There are 4 hiking trails within White Sands National Park, but they’re not traditional trails. The sand in the park moves around with the wind, so you’re not following a trail, per se. You’re following color-coded posts.
- Playa Trail: 0.5 mile trail (follow the green trail markers with a heart symbol)
- Dune Life Nature Trail: 1 mile trail (follow the blue trail markers with a club symbol)
- Backcountry Camping Trail: 2 mile trail (follow the orange spade trail markers)
- Alakli Flat Trail: 5 mile trail (follow the red diamond trail markers)
When to Visit White Sands National Park
Summer: Summer temperatures in White Sands National Park can reach over 100 ℉! It’s recommended not to go on a hike if the temperature is more than 85 ℉. Only brace the desert of White Sands in the summer if you are prepared for the heat. Take more than enough water, wear lots of sunscreen, and don’t forget your hat.
Winter: Days are shorter in winter, but the weather is nice and cool. I’d recommend visiting on one of the cooler winter days. This is when we visited, in December.
Fall/Spring: Visiting in fall or spring can sometimes offer cooler temps. Just check your weather app before arriving and plan accordingly.
Check for Park Closures Due to Missile Testing
Be sure to check the NPS website for any upcoming park closures.
There is a missile testing site nearby, so the park can be closed from time to time during the missile testing.
Entry Fees
It costs $25 per vehicle to enter White Sands National Park, and your entry is valid for one week.
If you plan to visit more than three national parks in a year, definitely get an America the Beautiful pass to save money.
Where to Stay Near White Sands National Park
You have two choices of where to stay near White Sands National Park — Alamogordo or Las Cruces.
Stay in Alamogordo, NM
Alamogordo is only 20 minutes from White Sands National Park, so it’s the most convenient area to look for a hotel.
The population is about 30,000 in Alamogordo, so it’s a smaller town.
Stay in Las Cruces, NM
We stayed in Las Cruces, which is 50 minutes away from White Sands.
Las Cruces is much bigger (a population over 200,000), so there were more restaurant and hotel options.
We were fine to do the longer drive and liked having a Corner Bakery Cafe to visit in the morning before heading off to our next stop.
We stayed at Hotel Encanto Las Cruces, which is a little outdated, not super impressive, but nothing to complain about.
Backcountry Camp in the Park
There aren’t any lodgings inside White Sands National Park, but you can backcountry camp inside the park.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting White Sands National Park
How much time do I need at White Sands National Park?
You don’t need much time as the park is not that big. One day is plenty of time at White Sands.
What is the number one thing people do when they visit White Sands National Park?
The number one thing people do at White Sands is go sand sledding! Be sure to also use the special wax on your sled in order to get it to slide down the dunes.
Is White Sands worth visiting?
Yes, it’s definitely worth visiting. White Sands is such a beautiful place.
Do you need tickets for White Sands National Park?
You don’t need tickets, but there is an entrance fee you pay upon entering.
What to take to White Sands National Park?
Be sure to take sun protection gear and sunscreen. White Sands is not only in the desert, but the white sand reflects the sun and can easily burn you.
Bring a sand sled and wax (or rent them at the visitor center).
Also bring an extra pair of shoes to change into after you’re done frolicking in the sand.
Can you do Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands in one day?
White Sands is about 3 hours, or 180 miles, away from Carlsbad Caverns.
You can, possibly, see both in one day, but you will need to wake up early and plan accordingly.
What is the best month to visit White Sands National Park?
I’d say the fall, spring, or winter months are the best months to visit in order to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
How large is White Sands National Park?
White Sands National Park is 275 square miles.
Can you drive through White Sands National Park?
Yes, you can drive on Dunes Drive for about 8 miles.
Other Posts to Help You Plan Your Trip to the American West
Best Way to See Carlsbad Caverns Big Room: Natural Entrance Trail vs. Elevator
Guide to Visiting Roswell, NM (All the Alien Lore)
Guide to Staying at Ten Thousand Waves Spa in New Mexico
One Day in Bryce Canyon National Park
One Day in Zion National Park (with Easy Hikes for Beginners)
One Day at Grand Canyon National Park
3 Day Itinerary for Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
2 Incredible Days in Yellowstone National Park
White sands is a crazy dream! Looks like snow but it’s sand just amazing! Definitely must visit at least once.