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White Sands National Monument Lighting storm over the dunes
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 Like No Place Else on Earth

Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin is one of the world's great natural wonders - the glistening white sands of New Mexico. Here, dunes have engulfed 275 square miles of desert creating the world's largest gypsum dunefield.

White Sands National Monument preserves this dunefield, along with the plants and animals that have adapted to this constantly changing environment.
 
Ranger in classroom

For Teachers and Students

Thinking of bringing your class to White Sands? Or perhaps you'd like a ranger to come to your classroom or to reserve one of our Teacher Resource Trunks? Whichever you prefer, we are happy to accommodate! For more information...

Imagine working as a park ranger for the summer at White Sands and gaining excellent career building skills. We have several positions open this summer for college students in interpretation and resource management. Read the announcements below for more information about these great opportunities and how to apply!
Interpretive Park Ranger   Physical Science Tech
Archeology Crew Member  Biological Science Tech
 
Visitor center and luminarias

Park Events

Dunes at Dawn Hikes
Come join a ranger and watch the first rays of sunlight push 
up over the Sacramento Mountains.  For more information...

Sunset Stroll
Join a ranger on a leisurely stroll through the dunes and learn
about the unique geology of White Sands National Monument
and the plants and animals that live here. The stroll is held 
every evening of the year, weather and staffing permitting.
Learn more...

Lake Lucero Tour
Have you ever wondered how the white sands formed? Take a tour to Lake Lucero with a ranger and learn about the formation of the sands. The tour is given once a month, weather permitting. Reservations are required.  
Reserve your spot...
 
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Park Closures

The Dunes Drive is periodically closed to travel due to missile testing on the adjacent White Sands Missile Range. For more information on closures...
 
Social Networking

Social Media Networks

Are you on Facebook? So are we! Friend us there to keep up to date on all upcoming park happenings. We'll be posting everything from events to park management concerns.

You can also follow us on Twitter!
 
 

Write to

White Sands National Monument
PO Box 1086
Holloman AFB, NM 88330

E-mail Us

Phone

Park Information
(575) 479-6124

Climate

The Tularosa Basin, a high desert area, averaging 4,000 feet (1200 meters) in elevation, is subject to harsh, and sometimes rapidly changing climatic conditions. Spring is windy season. Summers are hot, averaging 95°F. (35°C.) highs  with occasional readings over 100°F. (38°C.). Winters are relatively mild, but night-time temperatures often go below freezing (0°C.) Snowfall is infrequent, but heavy snows have occurred on occasion. Precipitation averages about 10 inches (250 mm.) per year, with most falling during summer thunderstorms, often accompanied by lightning and hail.
more...
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Photo of white lizard

Did You Know?
Three species of lizards, one pocket mouse and numerous species of insects have evolved a white coloration for survival in the white sands.
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Last Updated: November 28, 2011 at 13:56 MST

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