White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
On your visit to New Mexico, be sure to take the opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the state. At the White Sands National Monument, you can view and explore the white gypsum sand dune field in a variety of ways.The Visitors Center at White Sands can provide you with information about touring and exploring the dune field. You can find out about ranger-led tours and programs that may be available at White Sands during your visit a the Visitor Center. Dunes Drive is a 16-mile roundtrip that will take you to the heart of the dunes. You can drive or bike along the roadway. There are pull offs and parking areas along the way that provide plenty of opportunities for visitors to stop, walk around and photograph the sand dune field. Backcountry primitive camping is available at White Sands, but you must obtain a permit at the Visitors Center. Dunes Drive access as well as backcountry camping are prohibited when missile testing at the White Sands Missile Range is underway. You may wish to check online at NPS.gov for information about closures before your visit.