White Sands National Park: A Newly-Designated Wonder That's One-Of-A-Kind

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. Without further ado, here’s why you’ll want to add White Sands National Park, one of the most marvelous natural wonders in the US, to the very top of your outdoor bucket list.

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This National Park is located in the Tularosa Basin and it's one of the country's most recently dedicated parks.

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This national park features white gypsum sand. This sand is incredibly rare, as it dissolves when it comes in contact with water.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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 open 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.

Free Park Days: Throughout the year, the National Park Service offers a handful of fee-free days. This can be a great time to explore some of the nation’s most beautiful parks without having to pay a dime. Of course, keep in mind that the parks are often busier for this reason. Some of the free park days include the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 16th, the first day of National Park Week in April, the Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act on August 4th, National Public Lands Day on September 23rd, and Veterans Day on November 11th. Learn more about upcoming free park days when you visit the National Park Service website.

Restrooms: The main bathrooms at White Sands National Park are located next to the White Sands Visitors Center. There are also additional restrooms located along Dunes Drive.

To catch a glimpse of White Sands National Park, watch the brief video below. Prepare to be awe-inspired!

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.