Reviews of White Sands National Monument (Tourist Attraction)

Clare Holyhead

Decided to visit here at the last minute while we were in town. I really loved this place, it's so unusual and has an other worldly feel to it. The white sands glisten like diamonds and go on for miles. Great place and different from anywhere I've ever seen.

Donna Hargrove

Loved it. Kept expecting to see water with all that sand. Lol very beautiful. Was a bit too warm for exploring the day we visited. Wish they had the video shown inside for sale. Would have been fun to share it with family.

Joshua S

Tons of dunes. Very picturesque. A different experience being from the East Coast. Had fun sliding down in the discs we brought with us. Great gift shop too. Reasonable prices.

Athena Huckaby

The sunset stroll was wonderful. Our ranger was very earnest and sincere and kind, and was a dynamic storyteller. I learned so much. And my dog loved it.

David H. Nguyen

On our drive across West Texas and New Mexico, this is a MUST STOP. It is part of the National Parks system, so if you have their annual pass it is part of your admission. It's huge in size, but they have created a main road to allow you access to the dunes. I would recommend trekking too far out as everything starts looking the same after awhile and it can get really hot. Bring lots of water! The pictures are remarkable. The "Sand" is actually salt, so it's a true white and more dense than the sand you're generally used to. You can walk on it without it sliding underneath you. It was a very unique experience and pictures do not do this place justice.

Stephanie Thomas

Definitely something to see! Sunscreen and a plastic sled is a must. It is very beautiful with a lot of history to it!

Алина

What an incredible place! On the middle of desert there is a white sand patch. Absolutely worth making a trip.

Half Cooked

We visited here on vacation from Florida. Very interesting place. Make sure to come early or late in the day during the summer as the heat can be difficult to deal with.

Joe Vigil

Nice place to visit. Walking the dunes is nicer bare foot. Take sunglasses it's very bright on the sand.

Justin Stoner

White Sands is a beautiful and amazing place. The dunes are always moving so no visit is ever the same. Sand sleding is fun, especially after a light rain. It can be extremely hot and its easy to get lost so it is important to be careful.

Anne King-Cantu

When I was young we came to visit white sands. I was so excited to bring my kids to see the sands. It's so much fun to run in the sand with your shoes off and to slide down the dunes. Make sure to bring a sled or get one in the visitors center!

Marcy Fell

One of the most alien looking places I've ever been! It's amazing to see! I honestly don't think there is another place like it on the planet. Definitely worth stopping in to experience.

Kevin Copley

Worth the drive, we’ve been here many times over the years. Very easy to get to and simply beautiful. Bring a hat and sunglasses!

Lily Mendenall

Awesome at night. Would've been better if they would have had music like they were supposed to, but still incredibly amazing during the full moon.

Juan Soltero

Beautiful in its own way. Take lots of water and a compass. And or GPS. The trail isn't hard but there are little to no reference points and for someone with little experience in orienteering it can be fatal.

Amanda Riddle

Fun place! Just make sure to go when it isn't too hot. Dogs are allowed. Might even find some water if it rains.

Jerry Ilchena

An exceptional view at how our earth works. White sands is a great place to visit, hike and take your shoes off and walk along the cool white sands, hike the dunes. Come early and enjoy the cool weather.

R Cobb

What an awesome experience. Absolutely beautiful. Make sure to get there early as it gets hot.

Michael Nichols

Nice place to visit. The people from texas should learn to follow directions and not park in the road. I saw lots of tickets being handed out! Good for you law enforcement officers. We waited an hour to get out of the park.

Mick Swope

White Sands is beautiful! Something you have to see to believe. The board walk was interesting. We saw a couple of the lizards and some kind of gopher. We bought a used sled and some wax to try sledding on the dunes and it was nothing like you see in the videos. Maybe it works for small children but I can tell you that a 6'2" 160# man barely fits on a round saucer and I couldn't find a dune steep enough to actually sled.

Brian Meyers

This is arguably one of the coolest places I've ever seen in my whole life it's amazing how many ecosystems it seems like you go in and out of when you're in New Mexico you come out of one set of mountains and head towards the San Andreas Mountains and in that 13 Mile Stretch or so it turns into white sand dunes underneath mountains how amazing is this!!!!?? I cannot believe I never heard of this place before cannot wait to take my other kids back!!!!!

FKit BAYLIFE

Awesome, the sand is gypsum. It was so cool and soft, yet firm because I didn't sink when walking uphill. The visitor center sells items for less cost than the gift shop right next door.

Mia Jerry

This is nature at its best, so amazing this is a must see!!! The park should do better at enforcing people to pick up there trash, they do allow animals like cats, dogs and horses, camels! We actually seen one. Very surreal #desert life. The natural dunes will given me an execerise, the sand itself was cool to touch walked barefoot.

John G

It's a lot of fun! We checked out the gift shop area first and watch a video that explains how the white sands were formed which was cool. You pay 5$ per adult to enter and you can drive you car through. I believe you can keep your receipt and re-enter for a week. There are several bbq setups which you can use if you like. The area is great for pictures, the views are pretty unique. Tip: Don't forget your: Sunscreen Sunglasses Hat

Emily P

An absolutely amazing national park, and completely worth a visit. The sand doesn't get hot in the summer, which is fantastic but still gonfilly loaded with sunscreen if you're going in the heat of the summer. And the visitors center sells sleds to use on the dunes for 20 dollars and you can sell them back to the visitors center for half of that. I made the mistake or bot buying wax alongside the sled and you will definitely want to have the wax, otherwise you will hardly move.

Michelle Mitton

One of the most beautiful places I've seen in the United States. Going early in the morning the sand almost looks shimmering and opalescent. A great place for photographs.

Cindy Denning

There's something magical about White Sands. You feel like you've left Earth for some beautiful landscape. It is absolutely worth the drive to come. A fantastic place to bring kids. Bring round sleds and water. Avoid the heat of the day.

Mark Lopez

Beautiful white sand and incredible dunes. Being your own boogie board or stop at the visitors center to get a disc. Then you want to go the full 8 or so miles to the back to find the best dunes to slide down. It's fun and make sure you bring plenty of water.

Gus Salinas

Fantastic example of our countries national parks. Rangers and all personnel very friendly. Park clean and fun.

Laughing Mclemore

Love this place! So vast and beautiful...sure it maybe sand you can find elsewhere but it won't be like this. Definitely worth the trip!

Theresa Montoya

I'm glad we went, but no reason to go again. I know I shouldn't be factoring in the heat, but it was unbelievably hot. There's really nothing to do but see and touch the sand. It's remarkable, but I was done after about 20 minutes.

Dinesh Shrestha

Awesome place. Great place to go for a short trip. Best time to visit this place is before 10 am and after 5pm. This place is usually hot so make sure to bring your water, sunglasses, hat, sunscream etc by yourself. You can also buy other stuffs at the visitor center.

John McAchren

The dunes are fun but bring lots of water, sunblock, sunglasses and high energy snacks. Don't forget the sleds but be prepared... it takes a lot of energy to run back up a dune.

Brittney Garcia

I love it is a great spot to go and I would not go after it rains because the sand turns cold win wet. If you are a forest I would definitely record visiting. You can also buy sleds there and was so the sleds go down faster.

Justin Morrison

Amazing place. We arrived around 3 PM so it was hotter than hades but we had plenty of water. It is worth the short detour thru the park even if you don't walk the dunes. Once you get into the park it feels like you were transported to another place. Be careful as the heat and lack of shade can be unforgiving.

Rebecca Pope

I love going there with the kiddos. It's so much fun. Buy some disks and ride them on the sand dunes.

Rein-Morgen Keener

Love this monument. Sleds are sold at the gift shop for $20. Go to a Walmart or order on Amazon before your arrival and save money. If you go early, free entry and cooler temps. Rangers are extremely friendly and helpful. Respect the park and everyone can have fun.

Paula Robinson

I Love Our National Parks! White Sands is amazing! The Ranger said it's not sand, but Gypsum in sand form! It's cool even on hot days! Bring SUNGLASSES, SUNSCREEN, WATER and snow disk and slide down the dunes. Bring your picnic, enjoy the day. There are individual canopied areas. I saw signs that stated horse unloading area. I saw people having fun, you'd think you were at the beach! Bring your National Park Pass! Clean up after yourself. And PLEASE, keep our parks Beautiful! My cell phone dimmed the pictures it was so bright!

Aubrey King

You better bring your sunglasses to the White Sands Missile Range. It is so bright with the sun on the white sand it'll blind you. They also have a handicapped sidewalk as you can see in some of my pics.

Mégane PRIMAULT

We knew it would be beautiful but this park is breathtaking. The pictures don't do it justice. The contrast between the sand and the mountains is incredible. We wish we could have stayed for the sunset because it is suppose to be the best time to go. Great experience.

Seairth Jacobs

This isn't just "more dessert". It's an experience! Sled down dunes. Walk barefoot without getting burned. See a concert under full moonlight. Or just be dazzled by the sheer beauty of the landscape.

Sarii Rubio

We had a lovely time it was a bit windy but overall a great time. Take a lunch and some sleds which you can also buy there. Your $20 charge is good for 7 days also!

Karina Stephens

Amazing experience. I wish I had seen the sunrise or sunset. Beautiful park and I hope to return again some day!

Zadia Gauntlett

Been here so many times! Always a magical experience. Beautiful place!! Calming. Amazing sunsets

Shrihari Maiya

It feels great to walk barefoot on the white sands and one of the best place to see the sunset. There are lots of information regarding the formation of the white sands and the ecosystem. It is good to see that the place is being preserved for its uniqueness.

Oscar Jimenez

This place is great. You're better off buying your sled beforehand though. They're pricey if you get them here.

Marc Dearstyne

Very unique. Didn't know it was there. Took a drive through and walked on some dunes. 100 degrees and the sand was cool on the feet. Very strange but very nice.

Doby Phillips

An interesting and large area of approximately 275 square miles of gypsum sand dunes. The visitor's center has a good interpretive display discussing the geology and formation of the dune field. If you go, be sure to wear sun protection as the sand reflects sunlight. The dune field is located in a valley and the area can get quite hot.

Shannon Campbell

Although it was extremely hot, my friend and I managed to climb a couple of dunes. The sand is so white and beautiful! We enjoyed the visitors center and the pamphlets were very informative and educational! Looking forward to another trip when the weather cools off some!

carlos maglione

Pretty cool but bring your own disc for sledding, slight mark-up at the gift shop. Make sure you grab some wax from the gift shop to out on the bottom of the disc.

Claudi K

This place is REALLY cool make sure to bring a round sled to slide down the dunes. and plenty of water because it is actually really fun to just walk barefoot across the dunes!

Debra Robinson

Utterly beautiful even on an drizzly day. Even got a Wow out of my hard to impress husband.

Liam Maison

Beautiful gypsum dunes! The sand is so different from normal sand that you can walk barefoot even in scorching hot weather. Bring a slide, lots of water, and a camera! You are in for a fun adventure!

Livio Azzoni

Fantastic park, white sands in the middle of nothing... Almost otherworldly. Well worth the long trip to get there

Eleanor De Leon

Stunning views, very unique. We took our infant daughter in the evening and did a loop hike and watched the sunset from the dunes further back. Evening temp was perfect!

Keith Kellam

Absolutely beautiful! This is such a unique resource and it is being preserved and presented so well. What a fantastic and fascinating experience.

James

20$ entry fee, priceless experience. Open area for exploring, dunes are fairly firm and easy to walk on.

David Humphrey

Really neat thing to see. The sand is much brighter than I expected, it's almost like snow. Fun to walk across and sled down. Folks were friendly, and the park is pet friendly too.

Nicky1609 Cloud

So fun worth every cent. Beautiful place!!! No car camping. Has bathrooms. Pay about 20$ per vehicle. Or 10$per person.

Dillon Slaten

One of the most awesome places on earth in my opinion. This is a must see place! Kid friendly, pet friendly. If your into back country camping this is the place! Note take a lot of water if hiking on the dunes during the day of the summer months. And bring a coat for the night can get a little cool, if camping. At night it is magical!

Luigy Intriago

It's an unique place! Wonderful... you have to.come a visit it. Probably you want to enjoy this place if you like to take professional pictures. My advice pass by for the museum before to go to the white sands. It is amazing!!!!

Santosh C

Wow, this was awesome place to visit. The surprising thing was, the sand was not hot as much as normal sand and just bellow 2 inch wet sand. If you are visiting in summer, make sure you arrive early morning. Carry lot of water.

Aaron Maass

This should be a national park. It's like walking on another planet. And it's quiet, so so quiet. I would love to sleep on one of the dunes at night and look up at the stars...

Shanakay Reynolds

The sand is actually white, oh my. It’s a place where you can sit back relax or do some tobogganing down some pearly white sand dunes. It is a beautiful site to see and be at. My advice for summer/sunny visits, bring a gallon of water for each person, wear a wide brimmed hat, sunscreen and sun glasses... and don’t forget the cameras, please don’t.

alwaysdte

Breathtaking, it is beautiful in real life. Bring sunglasses, water and sunscreen. We drove around and picked a good spot and then we walked all the way out into the sands. Amazing! I’ll def come back again!

Nate Stalzer

Nice oasis in the middle of NM. A little on the small side, but plenty of dunes to lose yourself. The white sand has a cooling effect on the area, but don't be fooled - it's still a desert. Bring plenty of water.

Chiwetalu Peter Odo

it’s just as amazing as the pictures make it look. We arrived at around 6am to ensure we had a permit to spend the night there at one of the 10 campsites available. This can’t be stressed enough, MAKE SURE YOU CARRY ENOUGH WATER and suncreen. It’s gets way too hot during the day. I suggest you arrive early to reserve a campsite, set up, then go into town to spend the day and come back in time to watch the sunset.

Tiffany Martin

My mom and I traveled over from Hobbs to see White Sands. It was much larger than we expected for the area we were allowed to explore. It's absolutely gorgeous! We had so much fun and the doggos loved every minute of it also! When we left, we felt we had not allowed enough time, when we originally thought we'd get bored. There's so much to explore and admire. And seeing it at sunset is absolutely stunning!

Angel W

This place was so cool. Literally, the sand under your feet is cooled by an underwater lake.

Alyeris Arias

So beautiful! Plenty of space to have privacy with your family! Mountains from every view!

Reed Leverton

White Sands is a great place to visit, especially with kids. Take plastic snow discs with ski or surfboard wax. Wait until the circle road to stop. That's where the big dunes are. Don't go if it's windy (20+ mph). Fun trip from El Paso is to go to the space museum then on to White Sands. Long day but fun.

Bella S

Beautiful, Natural & Historical. The Guided Sunset tour was fun & informative. Make this a Southwest stop!

Tristian Barragan

Awesome experience. So cool to see so much sand in one area. The visitor center was very nice as well lots to learn.

Trinity Zavala

Gorgeous amounts of white Sands farther than the eye can see! So much fun to sled down!

heyitsmekasey

Lots of fun!!!!! Highly recommend buying or borrowing a sled to ride down the dunes. My 60 year old mother even did it a few times! The park opens at 7 am, but the gift shop and visitors center does not open until 9 am.

Darrell Zeller

Big surprise. Thought it would be boring. Or just a hike through the desert. Kids had a blast. Well worth the drive. Would love to camp there in the fall or early spring. Little to hot still 100 degrees. But still had a great time. Bring plenty of water non out at dunes. Biggest advice go to back of park. Most cars stopped where pavement ended. Road is easily passable by any car.

KDB Rodriguez

A W E S O M E ! It is best to come early in the morning or close to evening time. Super hot during the middle of the day. October is the best month to come to avoid the heat. Bring tons of water and snacks.

Emily Applegate

The park is really nice! But go the speed limit!!!! The park ranger is not a nice guy or forgiving person.

Terran Helland

This place was absolutely breathtaking. So underrated. I was shocked to see that it was not crowded. Sand sledding is a must and catch the sunset over the White dunes. Stunning.

Alexander O'Connor

It is certainly a unique experience and a must see if you're only visiting the area. It's great for all ages and there are options of enjoying the dunes Independently or under guided tour. If you choose to set off on your own be cognizant of what you're doing and where you're going so you do not disturb the area, and also so you don't get lost. It's very easy to loose your way if you wander too far. Be smart, be safe. There's a gift shop at the welcome center also for your enjoyment.

Lesley Sanders

Beautiful White Sandy hills all around, you can walk around and play on the sand and bring a sled to slide. There are bathrooms and a gift shop at the front. It's very warm and sunglasses are a must, you can't see without them. A must see each time we are passing through?

Jeanne Dobson

Kind of an weird place to have all this white sand. They have a nice little gift shop. They have a cold concession in the back. BRING PLENTY OF WATER!

Karis Brennan

Great place for families, highly recommended watching the sunset over the Organ mountains while here. Bring sleds and ski wax for sliding down the dunes!

Ray Colin

White Sands National Monument is really a fascinating place. It has a nice gift shop, and you can sled down the dunes, but the dunes themselves, and all of the activities the park rangers do, is really what is worth your time. Investigate what activities are available, like guided trails, presentations, and a sunset walk and tour, just to name a few. Spend time climbing up and down the dunes. It is very relaxing and sometime almost magical. It has a stark beauty that must be experienced.

Jennifer Moczygemba

Great place for families. Dunes are easy to access and not that difficult to climb. Photographer's delight. Beautiful sunsets.

Erin Kibbey

Truly gorgeous! Beautiful white sands for miles with the mountains as a gorgeous background. Take the Alkali Flat trail at the end of the scenic drive and your are bound to find dunes without a trace of footprints. The sand wipes off easily so I wasn't as worried about camera equipment as I thought I would be. Better than expected!!

Connor Cleveland

Truly astonishing. We arrived during the afternoon and stayed until sunset. Would do it all over again in a heartbeat. One of the most amazing sunsets I’ve ever seen. After taking all your photos of the beautiful landscape and dunes, do be sure to take a moment to look out along the horizon to really take in the scenery. Quite unforgettable.

Ismael Castillo

Awesome awesome awesome awesome is all I can say. You must see this place to believe it. Well worth the detour if driving through roadtrippin. Bring a sled for some fun. They sometimes have some for sale at the store . Bring plenty of water because it does get very hot. Wear sunglasses as it is very bright. Have lots of fun and take plenty of pictures.

joi hardin

Wonderful place to go with the entire family and your fur babies! We came around 5pm on 7/8/2019 and got a covered picnic bench. It's about 4 miles up on the drive route in the monument. We brought food and beverages, sunglasses and a couple sleds! Get your own glasses and sleds (they are expensive there but you can buy used sleds instead of new ones there). We had a good time and spent about 2 and a half hours here. We came with two cars worth of family. There was a family across from us that had the double covered tent and they brought lots of family and seemed to be really enjoying themselves as we were! Best time to go is in the evening 5-6 pm. Park closes at 9 but you will be ready to go before it gets too dark. This will definitely be a family tradition in our new town!

Shauna Morgan

White Sands is neat and pretty. Looks like a bunch of snow. Make sure if you're walking very far that you bring something too make landmarks with or watch whether you're going and pick something significant for a landmark otherwise you will get lost. Bring something to slide on or buy rent one at their shop. Bring lots of water and lots of film. Totally cool!

John Wolkenhauer

This place is great, for families or single folks. Lots of hiking, camping or just playing in the sand. Make sure you bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lots and lots of water. There are plenty of bathrooms, but no water and little shaded areas, so plan accordingly. I met Mitchell the camel here today ! He is a really friendly camel and he likes the white sand park. Come and see him in the afternoon.

Pat Elliott

Such a unique and beautiful spot. Rent a sled and enjoy the ride! I think the feel is $7 to rent. Entry fee was waived when we were there due to systems issue but I think it would have been $5

Diego Ferrario

Spectacular and very suggestive park. I suggest ti visit the park the visit until evening to admire the sunset. I never saw similari place, very fine and white sand. It's recommended to bring much water and sunscreen if you want to stay for a long time.

Yaned Ivens

Most amazing place! Very well organized visitor's center. Must do the sledding

Jennifer Doan

Definitely a sight to see. We went on the alkali flat loop trail and it beautiful.Vast beautiful white sand dunes. The sand was surprisingly cool to touch. We walked it barefoot and it felt amazing. Be sure to bring a map or make sure you have your phone because you could easily get lost on this trail. Water and sunscreen is a must when visiting because it is hot!

Jax Burton

It was beautiful as were the displays. It wasn't what I expected though. The sand is not like talcum powder at all.

Cindy Marshall

Our family was there in May 2019 at it was beautifull. It was a very peaceful place and I felt so peaceful there. My husband was there in the early 60's with his family. I will go back again someday. We are from Ohio and it is about an 16 hr drive but well worth it.

Dennis Neuber

Amazing place to visit. Make sure you bring plenty of water because it is hot. But well worth the detour. Staff was very friendly and help. If you are in the area make sure you make this trip.

Bridget Fain

I loved this place. It's very gorgeous and they have a sunset walk that is worth the walk. Definitely worth the visit

Olga Y

Pretty awesome place to stop by. So amazing how there is a platform of perfectly white sand in the middle of nowhere. So worth the stop.

Zylie

Not a huge amount to do. You can walk around, drive the loop, sled on the dunes. But it is stunning! Well worth it imo.

Bernardo Martinez

Its very nice and quiet. There are some hiking trails and you can also have fun with your family and friends sliding doen the dunes. There are a lot of bbq areas and toilets.

Terri Wade

So beautiful! Stunning! If anybody is hesitating to go please do not hesitate anymore. It is so worth it! But remember the gift shop closes at 5 so get there and then the park closes at 8! Make sure you take lots of water and stay hydrated. That's very important. We had the best time.

Jennifer McKenna

Lovely! But maybe don’t go in summer & be sure to bring a few litter water bottles! My husband and I went to take photos. We scoped it out the afternoon before and got overheated just being out for 20 mins & we’re from Texas. We went when the national monument opened the next day and it was 100% better!

Jatin Agrawal

Amazing place and so much white sand in middle of nowhere. It's best to go in evening, so the weather is cooler and can enjoy the sands

John Saint Jean

Great places to explore and especially take tons of pictures with the fam/friends/significant other... Most importantly watch the sunset!

Brian Kellogg

Beautiful and serene, especially if you can find a spot away from other people, which isn't hard to do. My wife wasn't real into it initially, but while we were visiting, she thanked me for bringing her out there. It's something everyone should see at least once.

Laura Trueblood

We truly loved this place! It’s an oasis in the middle of the desert. Highly recommend going in June if you’re in the Riudoso area. Great fun for all ages. Lots to learn about its creation. One of our favorite spots to visit this summer.

Ramesh S

Oh my goodness! This is such an awesome place to visit. One should definitely visit this place in their life. White sand dunes are beautiful. The white sand formed naturally was shining in the sun. We got really good memories as we got to see rainbow

Dx Niets

This place was amazing, the views were incredible and the sunset was gobsmaking. The kids had a complete blast and it was the perfect place to have a picnic. Just loved everything about it. Some of our family members had some problems with the entrance lady but we were just fine. Definitely would come back

Dr. Dean Aslinia

Amazing place! Must see! Seems like out of this world! To stand there and imagine you’d be drowning in the deep sea 250 million years ago is surreal! I’d say it’s a top 10 place to the in the US! If you drive by it and don’t stop in, you’ve lost an amazing experience!

Karen John

Beautiful, peaceful, and other worldly. I can't wait to go back.

Magda Marczewska

One of my favorite spots in New Mexico. Pure beauty, especially luminated by magical sunset light. White desert, where the soul can really rest

Tz Y

Pure white sands!!! Its a must visit place if are near. The day is HOT but the sands are cool. So cool that you can walk bare footed and won't feel the heat.

Jennifer Johnson

Very unique experience, sledding on the gypsum sand! Morning would be a more pleasant time to visit, but there is sunset tours also, or just wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses and have fun! Sleds can be purchased and resold to the gift shop, along with wax, which is very helpful for sledding on the sand.

Davidson Koay

Very unique place, the sand are so white like snow and fine like powder. Is a very interesting place and the comfortable climate. The wings constantly blow and feel very nice even under a strong sun. Recommended to bring the sunglasses because the reflection of the sun from the sand are really hurt our eyes without sunglasses.

Kim Derrick

Get there early to buy a sled. Take PLENTY (1gallon per person) of water. Picnic tables to have a family reunion or relaxation while the kids play.

L Sorenson

Such a fun place to visit! We really enjoyed sliding down the dunes. And the gypsum was cool to the touch, not hot like we expected!

Kimberly Riggle

Absolutely breathtaking. Cool sands even in the 90 degree heat. We sat and watched the sunset and it was such a special moment. Highly recommend stopping in to visit even if you just drive through.

Philippe Jacques Kradolfer

A very interesting place, White Sands National Monument. On a clear and sunny day the sand looks like snow! A cool place to visit as a family to just walk around, take fun pictures and slide down some of the hills around with a sled. The white sand extends for miles with some vegetation including flowers. Some of the flowers are a beautiful subject for close up pictures. This is also a fun places to take family pictures!

Montana Poor

Beautiful to drive through. The boardwalk was an easy stroll with fun facts sprinkled along the way. Sand sledding was also fun. A bit difficult to get started but totally worth it

DammitJoeBandit

What a great place! 20$ for a six day car pass. Even if you go for just one day, it's worth it. They have a nice sunset tour guide. They take you on a nice, one hour (barefoot optional) walk. Keeping you very entertained with facts and knowledge of the white sands. Then the trip ends with a beautiful view of this sunset, that I was able to get a great pic of. Plus you can rent or bring your own sleds to slide down the sand dunes. See my Instagram for more pics @Garden_Bandit

Sue Wood

So much more interesting than I thought it would be. Get a sled and slide down the cool sand dunes. It was worth the drive

Courtney Hill

I have been here for 2 photo shoots. It is beautiful, clean, and fun. The images I have captured are ahhhmazing! I live 5 hours away or I would shoot here all the time!!! Go 2 hours before sunset!!!

Shannon Stanley

No place on earth quite like it.... Tons of parking for all type's of vehicles, picnic area's

Sandra Balboa

A perfect place to escape reality, the view is otherworldly and a photographer's paradise. A must-stop if you want to witness spectacular sunsets! (Just remember to bring sunscreen and plenty of water)

Tyler Watt

Beautiful landscape, but very hot! Did a bit of “sledding” on the dunes, but it was relatively hard to find a good slope. Be sure to pack lots of water, as well as sunglasses.

Nicole Tolbert

Very cool place to visit. Unique sandy environment. Can get disks to slide around the dunes on. Take plenty of water to drink with you, wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat!

Stefania Costantini

Fantastic place, left to us by an ancient ocean and a gypsum soil. The impression is to be on the mountains covered with snow. A young female ranger told us everything about geology, and about the (surprisingly many animals and plants that live there). Better to go after 4:00pm when the high temperature decreases, waiting for the memorable sunset.

Matt Irvin

Surreal beauty to be found in the expansive gypsum sands. The further in you drive, the less vegetation and the more sand. You can walk on the dunes and there are exhibits to explore. The Boardwalk is an easy and fun hike if you are not up for dealing the with sands. If you do hike on the sand, make sure to bring an extra pair of socks...it gets everywhere!

Monique Howard

It was nice for my first time going, but with the sun beaming it was to hot!!! I'll come back when it cools off. I took some nice pictures though before we left. My experience was worth the time!!!!

Kelsey Lauder

Awesome! It's like being on Mars. Dog friendly but be careful as when we were there it was getting pretty hot. We skipped the longer walks for our pooch's sake, though she did have fun in the sand (not too hot for her paws because of the moisture in the gypsum). The visitor's center is not dog friendly though. Horses are also allowed in certain parts of the park. Would be a dream to ride through the dunes.

Meleisa Greene

Love it. And its so dry the sand doesn't stick to you. You can tent fun disk at the gift shop. Waterless beach in the middle of nowhere.

Cat Lee Jones

Just awesome. A magical place. Well worth even a long drive. Love it!

Pamela Eilertson

Cool all year. White sand does not absorb heat. Beautiful. Go sledding.

Cody Adams

Awesome, unlike anything I have ever seen! Recommend for the family but definitely bring sunblock!!!

Priscilla Houle

We enjoyed going and walking around. The sand was nice and cool to walk on. We had a great time, worth your time visiting.

Somar Creations

It was very interesting to see but after 2 attempted slides down the dunes I was done. No need to buy more than 2 sliding discs as everyone can share. You do not slide down as fast as one would think. I enjoyed the hikes on the trails more and take plenty of water.

Katie S

Dog-friendly on-leash. Out of this world awesome! We came in the late afternoon and there were no crowds. I'm not sure if there normally are, but it was nice to only see a few other small groups. It felt surreal! We bought used sleds for $10 each (brand new was $20 ea) and they said normally they don't have used available so we got lucky. We bought wax and headed to the dunes! The gypsum sand is shockingly cool on your feet. We could have spent hours here but we had a long day of travel and were tired. I could see packing blankets, picnic basket, lots of water, and spending a long afternoon or morning here!

William Watson

Beautiful dunes of sugar white sand and natural gypsum. The cool breeze made it seem like a day at the beach! We also were swept up by a sudden high wind sandstorm! What a great adventure!

David Colburn

Rather stunning anomaly from surrounding area. Pretty good visitor center. 4 stars simply because you're constrained to the one drive, and can't get out away from all the sledders and others, even though the little trails they have are nice. Still, glad I went, got some good pics.

Trade Mark

Extremely hot (for me) but that is why it is a desert! Gorgeous white sand dunes and the sand 'waves' naturally created by the wind. Try to visit early in the morning or near dusk for stunning pictures (and less intense temperatures)

Karen Bishop

Really neat place to go. Watch the film before you venture out. Take a sled! I was talked out of it but it looked like so much fun! Informative and unbelievable!

Dusty Treese - Poust

Stunning! Got there late afternoon, enjoyed the beautiful weather, got to watch the sun set! The gift shop sells sleds for the kids to go sled riding in the find sand... It looks like sugar, glistening like snow! Make sure you have sun glasses, you can become snow blind quickly! The sand, the history the views are all stunning! A Must see!

Patt Intarakamhang

This place is beautiful. It's well maintained and the staff is all friendly and knowledgeable. There's lots of spots you can pull off and wander around. I recommend you go towards the end of the loop if you want to be purely in the White Sands.

Kavana Udayakumar

I could go here every time and never feel bored even if I choose to sit in the same spot as the dunes change everytime with new deposits of gypsum. Take your kids for an educational tour and don't miss the Sunset stroll event, which is guided and they explain how the dunes were formed, their composition, vegetation and variety of animals.

Nancy Haworth

This is a beautiful and incredible place to visit! The visitor center and gift shop were nice. The dunes are amazing to see, and no photo can do this place justice. Definitely bring sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, and water with you! Be prepared to wash your vehicle afterwards as it will get covered in a thin film of sand.

John M.

I really enjoyed visiting this park. Definitely a must for any photo enthusiastic. you wanted the sunset tours if possible. Spend at least a day if you can

Christina Stalnaker

BEAUTIFUL!! The best scenery we have seen on this out west trip..Take plenty of water and fill up your bottles before any hikes even small ones it does get very hot..for the adventuresome either take or buy a sled to slid down the sand dunes..you can purchase them at gift shop either used or new and they buy them back at the end of the day for a small return..Used ones are like 10 and they will give you 3 to return it ..never depend on your footprints to get you back there one minute gone the next..Great day trip for both the young and old..

tnvp214

I had never seen sand this white before. Wonderful stop for photos. Bring plenty of water, we go at 8am in mid July, temperatures said 77°F but felt much hotter than that. You have to take off your shoe and feel the sands, fine soft and cool.

Krisanda Nunley

Great place to have some fun and explore. Is usually very hot, make sure you take lists of water. If you are a local I recommend purchasing the yearly pass.

Angie Rigg

Very awesome place to visit! Breathtakingly beautiful! Make sure you arrive with plenty of time to explore! Also the bugs are fierce so take plenty of bug spray. My other advice would be to bring plenty of water & snacks. Its a very good size National Park. Absolutely worth the money & you can use a America the beautiful National Parks pass to get in. Make sure to use the rest room before going as even on the way its a long route to get there with no restroom. Plan ahead & you will love it

Carol S

Just beautiful! We went during the week and it wasn't busy. The sand is cooler then beach sand in the summer. You won't spend a lot of time here unless you have kids with you who want to play in the sand and do some sledding. If you do sledding, bring you own plastic saucers and wax. They do sell them in the gift shop for $18 new and $10 used.

Tyler Schellie

This place is incredible, and definitely a must see. I recommend getting out of your car and walking around in the sands. If your looking to get more active, you can rent sleds and ride down the massive mounds of pure white sand. Gift shops are stereotypical, expensive and things you don't neccesarily need, but check it out you never know.

Clarke Moyer

Great fun. Our hotel even had sleds to take out with us for free. We still bought the slide wax you need to go extra fast. The kids both had fun. Would recommend visiting.

k white

Great place to visit, close to an hour from Fort Bliss. One of the worlds great natural wonders. Bring plenty of water! Also bring a cooler, snacks, a disc to slide down the dunes and a great attitude. You'll enjoy the scenery, reading about the history, and spending time with one another. Bring your military or retiree ID.

Tara Stanton

I loved it, it is so beautiful and fun going sledding. The sand is cool beneath your feet, so clean and soft. This is definitely so much better in person than it is in pictures. I can believe I lived so close all this time. The sunset walk was beautiful and free, also informational.. it was a learning experience, fun, and I recommend it to anyone. Especially if you dont live around New Mexico/Mexico/Arizona/Texas/Colorado Shoes are optional but water is not. Go sledding down the dunes with a disc from the giftshop.

D. Duplichen

Great place to experience. I wouldn't spend all day unless camping though. The place is a must see/experience. The cantina does a nice job also.