• The dunes in soft light

    White Sands

    National Monument New Mexico

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  • Closures and Missile Tests

    Upcoming Missile Tests: From time to time the missile range that surrounds us performs missile testing that may require the closure of the park or Highway 70. Please follow the link below for up to date information on closures More »

Things To Know Before You Come

Schedule of Events
We offer a variety of programs year round. For more information, download a copy of our schedule of events.

Trip Planning Information
Are you planning a trip to White Sands National Monument? Download the following brochures for more information on how to plan your visit, area attractions, and local campgrounds.

 
Park Closures and Missile Testing
White Sands National Monument is surrounded by military neighbors on all sides. From time to time, White Sands Missile Range will perform missile tests that require us to close the Dune's Drive for their duration in order to ensure visitor safety. Some of these tests will even close Highway 70 down as well. Read more...
 

Western National Parks Association
Our bookstore is run by the Western National Parks Association (WNPA). A non-profit organization, the WNPA was founded in 1938. Since that time, it has been dedicated to aiding and promoting the educational and scientific activities of the National Park Service. Visit WNPA's website...

 

Your Safety
Making sure that visitors have a safe, enjoyable experience is our primary concern. Please take a moment to review our tips for staying safe while visiting the monument. Read more...

 

Hours of Operation and Seasons
Unlike other parks, White Sands National Monument is unable to be open to the public 24 hours a day due our unique location. Surrounded by the military on all sides, our partnership with White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base dictates that we are open for specific hours throughout the year. For more information...

 
 
 
 
 

Did You Know?

Photo of animal tracks

Most desert animals are nocturnal, coming out to feed only at night when temperatures are cooler. Every animal in the white sands makes tracks on the dunes as it moves, leaving clues to its nocturnal activities.