White Sands National Park
146,344
Acres
702,000/year
Annual Visitors
$25
Entry Fee
October through April
Best Time to Visit
National Park Service
National Park
White Sands was protected as a national monument in 1933 and redesignated a national park on December 20, 2019. The park contains the world's largest gypsum dunefield, 275 square miles of blindingly white sand in the Tularosa Basin of New Mexico.
What White Sands Is Known For
White gypsum sand dunes
Sunset over the dunefield
Oryx wildlife
Missile testing road closures
Top Activities
Sledding down gypsum dunes
Hiking Alkali Flat Trail
Sunset photography
Backcountry camping in the dunes
Ranger-led full moon walks
Our Complete White Sands Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip. Trails, timing, tips, and the spots most visitors miss.
Our White Sands Articles

Educational Resources

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History
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Spring
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Educational Resources
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Plan Your Visit
Nearby National Parks
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