Camping White Sands National Park: A Detailed Guide for an Unforgettable Experience
Are you looking for a unique camping destination that combines stunning natural beauty with a touch of the surreal? Look no further than White Sands National Park in New Mexico, USA. This extraordinary park offers an otherworldly landscape that is sure to leave you in awe. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about camping in White Sands National Park, from planning your trip to enjoying the unique experiences it has to offer.
Getting to White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park is located in the Tularosa Basin, approximately 45 miles south of Alamogordo, New Mexico. The park can be accessed via U.S. Highway 70. If you’re flying into the area, the closest major airport is El Paso International Airport, which is about a 2-hour drive from the park.
When planning your journey, keep in mind that the park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months of October through April. During the summer, temperatures can soar above 100掳F, making it challenging to enjoy the park’s amenities and activities.
Accommodations: Camping in White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park offers two camping options: the Dunes Backcountry Campground and the Alibates Visitor Center Campground.
Dunes Backcountry Campground
This is the only campground within the park and is located near the Dunes Life Support Area. It features 52 sites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill. The campground is open year-round, but reservations are required from May 1 through September 30. During the off-season, reservations are not required, but sites are first-come, first-served.
Alibates Visitor Center Campground
This campground is located near the park’s visitor center and offers 16 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. It is open from April 1 through October 31 and reservations are required year-round. The campground is a great option for those looking to stay close to the visitor center and enjoy the park’s amenities.
Facilities and Services
White Sands National Park provides a variety of facilities and services to enhance your camping experience:
Facility/Service
Description
Restrooms
Complimentary restrooms are available at the Dunes Backcountry Campground and the Alibates Visitor Center Campground.
Water
Water is available at the Dunes Backcountry Campground and the Alibates Visitor Center Campground. Please note that water is not available at the Backcountry Campground during the winter months.
Laundry Facilities
Laundry facilities are available at the Alibates Visitor Center Campground.
Firewood
Firewood is available for purchase at the park’s visitor center. Please use only dead and down wood to protect the park’s unique ecosystem.
Activities and Things to Do
White Sands National Park offers a variety of activities and experiences that cater to all interests:
Guided Tours
The park offers a variety of guided tours, including moonlight tours, full-moon tours, and dune buggy tours. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the park’s unique landscape and learn about its fascinating history.
Backcountry Camping
For those who want to experience the park’s remote beauty, backcountry camping is available. You’ll need to obtain a permit from the visitor center and follow the park’s regulations to ensure the preservation of this delicate ecosystem.
Photography
The surreal landscape of White Sands National Park is a photographer’s dream. Capture the beauty of the dunes, the vibrant colors of the sand, and the unique shadows created by the sun.
Stargazing
The park’s remote location makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. The lack of light pollution allows you to see the Milky Way and other celestial wonders with ease.
