Plan Your Visit

 
 

Where to begin? This "Plan Your Visit" section has all kinds of helpful information, including basic information on the park, things to do, eating and sleeping, safety, accessibility, and nearby attractions. As you dig deeper, you'll also find maps, directions, operating hours and seasons, a listing of fee-free days, information on fees and passes, brochures, and even details on permits and reservations.

NOTICE: Federal laws and policies prohibit the taking of sand and any resource from within the national park. 36 CFR - Code of Federal Regulations 2.1 (a)1(iv) prohibits the possessing destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or disturbing of natural, cultural and archaeological resources to include mineral resources.

The illegal taking of resources from within the national park is a Class B misdemeanor punishable with a $5,000 fine or 6 months in jail.

Alcohol consumption and/or the possession of alcoholic beverages or receptacles used to store alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the park from February 1st through May 31st for the purpose of protecting visitor safety during the busy spring season. Alcohol consumption the rest of the year is prohibited except in the Yucca Picnic Area, Road Runner Picnic Area, Primrose Picnic Area, and Group Use Area. Alcohol is prohibited in the Evening Program Area except during White Sands National Park sponsered events. (WHSA Superintendent’s Compendium §2.35).

 
Park Ranger handing out information.

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Basic Information

Make sure you are prepared to have a safe and fun time during your time here. Find operating hours and fee, permit, reservation and pet information as well as park regulations and current conditions here.

 
Close up of map with trails and visitor center marked

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Directions & Transportation

Find maps that will help you find your way to White Sands National Park. Regardless of whether you’re driving or flying, we’ll help you get here.

 
Orange and gray tent set up in area with white sand and grasses

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Eating & Sleeping

Limited food service and primitive camping are available in the park. The local area offers a number of car camping and RV campsites, hotels, and restaurants.

 
Visitor sledding on orange sled sledding down dune.

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Things To Do

A one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure with opportunities to discover the unexpected while having fun creating lifetime memories abound in this enchanted land. Let us help you get the most out of your visit.

 
Silhouette of ranger with hands extended

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Calendar

Don’t miss out on any of our upcoming events. Check here to learn about programs available to you to enhance your visit.

 
Illustration of two liter bottles for every one person.

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Safety

We want you to be safe while you delight in the beauty of our glistening white sands. Deserts have unique hazards. Your safety is your responsibility. Read the important safety information to ensure you have the best time possible!

 
Wheelchair handicap symbol

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Accessibility

Discover the areas of White Sands National Park that are accessible to those with mobility impairments. Share your journey with friends and family and, as always, service animals are allowed at all park facilities open to the general public.

 
Stalactites hanging from top of cave at Carlsbad Caverns

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Nearby Attractions

Southern New Mexico and Far West Texas have many unique and interesting activities for you to share with your friends and family. Learn about and explore the alluring landscapes of the Desert Southwest.

 

Last updated: October 30, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 1086
Holloman AFB, NM 88330

Phone:

575 479-6124

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