What else is there to do around White Sands?
New Mexico Museum of Space History Heart of the Desert Alameda Park Zoo White Sands Missle Range Museum Oliver Lee Memorial State Park International Space Hall of Fame Shroud Exhibit and Museum Tularosa Basin Museum of History
How long do you need at White Sands National Monument?
If you just plan to drive thru and look at the dunes, play in the sand a bit and spend some time in the visitor center then 2-3 hours should be enough time over a year ago 2 hours in the dunes and one in the visitor center You can watch a free small 10-15 min video in the visitor center
Is White Sands National Monument worth it?
White Sands National Park (on Mescalero Apache and Tampachoa native land) is an extremely beautiful place and definitely worth the stop if you find yourself near southern New Mexico The white sand dunes are like nothing I’ve ever seen before, comprised predominantly of the mineral called gypsum
How can I enjoy White Sands National Park?
5 Things to do at White Sands National Park Go sledding By far one of the best things to do at White Sands National Park is going sledding! Hike one of the trails Drive down Dunes Drive Visit Lake Lucero PLAY!
How much are sleds at White Sands?
The sleds are 1699 each and you get a five dollar refund if you bring it back They do have used sleds for ten but they are rarely available This is so much fun for kids It’s worth it just to watch them run up and down the hills
Can you ride ATVS at White Sands?
White Sands Missile Range opened a nearly 15 acre ATV course for community members with all-terrain vehicles to ride within the range, Jan 13
Is White Sands open during Covid?
Phased reopening – some locations closed due to COVID-19 The Dunes Area, Hiking Trails, Picnic Areas, Visitor Center, and Gift Shop are open Backcountry camping is unavailable
Are there showers at White Sands National Park?
there are no bathrooms or showers near the campsites for over a mile i believe the NPS web site has tips for camping and hygiene
What is the best time to visit White Sands National Monument?
Probably the best time to visit is late October / early November when the Cottonwoods are changing color By mid November most of the Cottonwoods have changed color
Are there snakes in White Sands?
This large, heavy-bodied snake averages about four feet in length but can grow up to seven feet The underbelly of those in White Sands is often creamy as opposed to yellow, beige, or tan as it is in other areas However, the preferred prey of choice at White Sands is the pocket gopher
Do I need a reservation for White Sands National Park?
Reservations are not needed to enter the park; however, some of our interpretive programs require advance reservations National parks, like White Sands National Park, are special places for all to enjoy now and into the future
Is White Sands open to out of state visitors?
White Sands and other national parks in New Mexico are not subject to the amendment because they are managed by the National Park Service This means that out-of-state residents cannot visit New Mexico state parks and only may visit national parks in the state after quarantining for 14 days
Can you take sand from White Sands?
Otero County Commissioner called out for taking sand from White Sands National Monument However, according to the National Park Service website, taking sand from the monument is against the law “We allowed people to take little bags of it home and they were real appreciative of it,” Griffin said
What animals live in White Sands?
Many species of mammals make their home in White Sands National Park, including foxes, rodents, coyotes, bobcats, badgers, rabbits, and porcupines Learn more about the interesting behaviors and unique adaptations of these mammals
Where do I enter White Sands?
The entrance to the park can be found between mile markers 199 and 200 on Highway US-70 Head west on Highway US-70 towards Las Cruces The visitor center is located about 15 miles (24 km) west of Alamogordo on the north side (right-hand side) of the road Head east on Highway US-70 towards Alamogordo
What do you wear to sand sledding?
Bring a hat, gloves, wool socks, and a warm jacket for the night year round, because temperatures can drop For sun and sand protection, pack a sun hat, sun gloves, sunglasses, long-sleeve shirt with UPF sun protection, and a bandana or lightweight face and neck cover like a Buff or Discrete neck buff
What can I use for sand sledding?
Sandboarding and Sand Sledding Don’t waste time with snow sleds, saucers, cardboard, or soft plastic items Sandboards and sand sleds are specifically made for sand, featuring a special design with extra slick base material and special wax; these work best for sliding in most conditions
Can you go off roading in White Sands?
Visitors planning to explore by motorcycle or bicycle should be aware that they are only allowed on Dunes Drive and not on hiking trails or off-trail in backcountry areas While motorcycles and bicycles are allowed on the road, it is not without its hazards
Can you see white sands from 70?
It is located right off of off of Highway US-70 between the cities of Alamogordo and Las Cruces The entrance to the monument can be found between mile markers 199 and 200 on Highway US-70 You really can’t miss it! Just stay on US Hwy 70 and you’ll easily find it!
Are dogs allowed at White Sands?
Pets love White Sands! To them, it’s full of new scents, sights, cool, soft sand, and excitement! You’ll love bringing your furry companions with you to the park, tooas long as they are non-disruptive, on a leash no longer than six feet, and are under physical control at all times