White Sands National Park
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Terrain // Dirt | Found On // Boondockers Welcome | Our Stay // March 8 – 10, 2024
Don’t Forget Your Shades!
Like a mirage, dazzling white dunes shimmer in the tucked-away Tularosa Basin in southern New Mexico. They shift and settle over the Chihuahuan Desert, covering 275 square miles—the largest gypsum dune field in the world. White Sands National Park preserves more than half of this oasis, its shallow water supply, and the plants and animals living here. The other half of the dune field is a restricted area where permits are required to enter. White Sands Missle Range surrounds the park, resulting in the park potentially being closed during missile range tests that average twice a week.
Since gypsum dunes are firmer and cooler than most sand dunes, many people enjoy sledding on these unusual dunes. We purchased one of the specialty sleds available at the visitor center for $30 to try our hand at dune sledding. It was not as anticipated 😅 Michael and I sank into the sand on most of our attempts down a dune. We’re blaming it on the flimsiness of the sled. That said, I did get 1-2 quick slides down a handful of dunes.
Things to Consider
Weather Conditions // Check the weather forecast as temperatures vary greatly between seasons and throughout the day. Beware of lightning. During a lightning storm, take cover in a closed building or vehicle. If you are not near shelter, squat low to the ground, place your hands over your ears, and put your head between your knees. Be aware of what time the sun sets.
Know Where You Are // Wind erases your tracks, and GPS can be unreliable. Use trail markers, a compass, and landmarks. Never hike alone.
Sun Protection // Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from the intense desert sun. The sun is no joke in this exposed environment. Plus, the sand reflects the sunlight.
Water and Hydration // Carry plenty of water, as dehydration can occur quickly in the desert environment. The park recommends one gallon of water per person per day. Bring and eat plenty of high-energy snacks to keep you going.
Clothing // Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing that provides sun protection and can be layered for temperature changes.
Activities // Research and plan your desired activities, whether hiking, sledding on the dunes, stargazing, or photography. We don’t recommend the park sleds for adults, though they may work better for children.
Where We Stayed
Boondockers Welcome // Ranger Bruce
This Boondockers Welcome spot was about 45 minutes from White Sands National Park. They had a nice plot of land in a large culdasack where we had access to electricity and good satellite reception for Starlink. Our hosts were friendly and kept to themselves.
Hiking
Alkali Flat Trail is a 4.4-mile loop marked by red trail markers with a diamond symbol. The trail skirts along the edge of the last remaining section of Lake Otero, providing a challenging hike through rough terrain. You will encounter dunes throughout the entire journey, with a beautiful mountain range visible in the background. It is important to bring ample water and sun protection as the trail is fully exposed to the sun. Full disclosure: Michael and I got about halfway through the hike and opted to cut back through the middle of the loop instead of completing the full thing because we were super hot and over it a little. 😅
Resources
National Park Pass
It’s roughly $30 / vehicle to enter most national parks. If you plan on entering any national park at least three times in a calendar year, we highly suggest getting an Annual Park Pass. It’s $80 for a whole year (cheaper for seniors), and the pass covers entrance or day-use fees to all National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands for one personal vehicle, including rentals and RVs/motorhomes, plus entry to 2,000 Federal Recreation Sites.
BOONDOCKERS WELCOME MEMBERSHIP
Boondockers Welcome is a subscription service where locals invite RVers to park on their property, share their stories, and get a good night’s rest for free! It’s a perfect way to break up long drives without paying campground fees. Some hosts offer electric hookups and other amenities for a small donation.