White Sands National Park Tours and Activities

White Sands National Monument showing a sunset and a sandy beach
White Sands National Monument which includes a beach, mountains and a sunset
White Sands National Monument which includes desert views, a sunset and mountains
White Sands National Monument featuring mountains and a beach
White Sands National Monument which includes a sunset and mountains


Hike, cycle, drive or surf across one of the most striking landscapes in the United States, a colossal area covered in sand dunes.

Spectacular dunes of snow-white gypsum sprawl as far as the eye can see at the White Sands National Monument. This spectacular natural landscape lays claim to being the largest gypsum dune field in the world and extends for 275 square miles (712 square kilometers) of desert.

Begin your adventures at the national monument with a stop by the visitor center, which was built in the 1930s and is an example of Spanish Pueblo adobe architecture. View exhibits and watch a movie about the monument before venturing out into the dunes.

There are several ways to explore the dramatic landscape, each offering a different perspective on their scale and magnitude. Get in your car for the Dunes Drive, an 8-mile (13-kilometer) scenic drive that departs from the visitor center. Stop at the numerous outdoor exhibits to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area. Find hiking trails, picnic areas and parking facilities along the route.

Walk on the elevated Interdune Boardwalk for a superb view of the dune field and the Sacramento Mountains. This wheelchair accessible walkway features several outdoor exhibits making it both picturesque and educational. Bring a camera to capture lifelong memories.

Hike the trails of the national monument, including the Dune Life Nature Trail, where you can walk on the sand. Cyclists can ride their bikes through the dune field on a hard-packed gypsum sand road or for some heart-pumping fun try sledding down the face of a dune. Sign up for a ranger-led program, including full-moon hikes and bike rides for a tailored experience of the dunes.

The monument is located between the cities of Alamogordo and Las Cruces and can be reached from either. You can even stay overnight in one of the campsites, which are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

The White Sands National Monument is closed on Christmas Day. There is an entrance fee, although children aged 15 years and younger can access the monument for free. Visitors are reminded to bring plenty of water as there is none is available outside of the visitor center.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near White Sands National Park

The Classic Desert Aire Hotel

The Classic Desert Aire Hotel

3 out of 5
1021 S White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM
The Classic Desert Aire Hotel
Days Inn by Wyndham Alamogordo/White Sands

Days Inn by Wyndham Alamogordo/White Sands

2 out of 5
907 S White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM
Days Inn by Wyndham Alamogordo/White Sands
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Alamogordo Hwy 54/70 by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Alamogordo Hwy 54/70 by IHG

2.5 out of 5
100 Kerry Ave, Alamogordo, NM
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Alamogordo Hwy 54/70 by IHG
Super 8 by Wyndham Alamogordo/White Sands

Super 8 by Wyndham Alamogordo/White Sands

2 out of 5
3204 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM
Super 8 by Wyndham Alamogordo/White Sands
Motel 6 Alamogordo, NM

Motel 6 Alamogordo, NM

2 out of 5
251 Panorama Blvd, Alamogordo, NM
Motel 6 Alamogordo, NM
SureStay Plus by Best Western Alamogordo White Sands

SureStay Plus by Best Western Alamogordo White Sands

2.5 out of 5
1020 S White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM
SureStay Plus by Best Western Alamogordo White Sands
Hampton Inn Alamogordo

Hampton Inn Alamogordo

2.5 out of 5
1295 Hamilton Road, Alamogordo, NM
Hampton Inn Alamogordo
Fairfield Inn & Suites Alamogordo

Fairfield Inn & Suites Alamogordo

2.5 out of 5
300 Panorama Blvd, Alamogordo, NM
Fairfield Inn & Suites Alamogordo
Home2 Suites By Hilton Alamogordo White Sands

Home2 Suites By Hilton Alamogordo White Sands

2.5 out of 5
3450 Mesa Village Drive, Alamogordo, NM
Home2 Suites By Hilton Alamogordo White Sands
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near White Sands National Park

At White Sands National Park in New Mexico, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking along scenic trails, sand sledding down the unique gypsum dunes, and stargazing under a clear night sky. For those interested in history, guided tours provide insights into the area's rich past. Whether you prefer exploring hiking trails or trying your hand at sand sledding, White Sands offers a distinct experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Recreation

Explore Aguirre Spring National Recreation Area, located 45.1km from White Sands National Park. Immerse yourself in the tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy hiking trails that offer stunning views and the opportunity to connect with nature, enhancing your overall wellness experience.

Adventure

The White Sands Backcountry Camping Trailhead offers a thrilling hiking experience located 9.7km from the park. Immerse yourself in stunning desert landscapes, where adventure awaits amid the unique gypsum dunes and expansive outdoor scenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers alike.

Nightlife

Experience the arts at the Flickinger Center for Performing Arts, located 40.2km from White Sands National Park. Enjoy a romantic evening filled with culture and entertainment, featuring live performances that cater to all ages and tastes.

Find the best attractions near White Sands National Park

While visiting White Sands National Park, you'll find intriguing attractions such as spacePark, a museum, and the visitorCentre, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts. Explore nearby points of interest like the stunning white sands and the national monument, offering outdoor experiences for all. This unique desert landscape invites you to discover its beauty while providing various activities suited to every traveller's interests.

  • White Sands Visitor Center: Located 17.7km from the park, this vibrant visitor centre offers outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Engage with informative exhibits and receive guidance from knowledgeable rangers about exploring the stunning gypsum dunes.
  • White Sands Missile Range Museum: Situated 45.1km from the park, this museum immerses visitors in the rich history of rocket testing and military operations. Delve into fascinating exhibits that highlight the cultural significance of this unique region.
  • New Mexico Museum of Space History: Also 45.1km away, this space park caters to families and offers entertaining displays about space exploration. Experience interactive exhibits that inspire curiosity about the cosmos and our place in it.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for White Sands National Park

To save money on your trip to White Sands National Park, consider visiting between January to February or August when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid weekends, particularly Saturdays, for better rates. Use Expedia's search tool to find eco-certified hotels and sort by price to uncover the best deals. Additionally, look for package deals that combine your hotel stay, flights, and activities to maximize savings. Keeping an eye out for specialty hotels near Anthony with rates around $63 can also help keep costs manageable.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around White Sands National Park are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and November to December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around White Sands National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around White Sands National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at White Sands National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.