• The dunes in soft light

    White Sands

    National Monument New Mexico

  • Closures and Missile Tests

    Upcoming Missile Tests: Friday-Saturday, April 27-28 -- Missile test scheduled on both mornings. Highway 70 will be blocked at Red & Yellow checkpoints. No backcountry camping on Thursday and Friday, April 26 & 27. More »

  • High Winds

    We are in our windy season, so please be aware of possible high winds.

  • Backcountry Camping

    There will be no backcountry camping available the night of Saturday, April 7, 2012.

Research

Paleontology
White Sands National Monument isn't just about sand and yuccas! Take a look at some of the exciting stuff being uncovered in the dunefield.

 

Geology
If you're looking for current research on the geology of White Sands National Monument and the Tularosa Basin, you'll find it here.

 

Mammals
Here, you'll find studies on mammals found within the park, such as the pallid bat and more. 

 

Pupfish
How many fish do you think live within the boundaries of White Sands National Monument? Just one-the pupfish! 

 

Reptiles
The unique adaptation of the lizards and other reptiles within the monument has been the subject of some pretty interesting research.

Did You Know?

Aerial photo of parabolic dunes.

Not all sand dunes are alike. Dunes may take many forms, depending on the amount of sand available, the strength and direction of prevailing winds, and the type of vegetation in the area. Four types of dunes can be found in the white sands dunefield.