If you're looking for a unique and breathtaking destination for your next family adventure, look no further than White Sands National Park in southern New Mexico. This incredible park, home to the world's largest gypsum dune field, offers stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and thrilling activities like sledding down the soft, white dunes. Whether you're road-tripping through the Southwest or planning a dedicated visit, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
The Magic of White Sands: A Gypsum Wonderland
Unlike traditional sand dunes made of quartz, the dunes at White Sands are composed of gypsum, a soft mineral that gives them their brilliant white color. Gypsum is typically dissolved by rainwater, but because the Tularosa Basin has no drainage to the sea, the minerals remain and form the dazzling dunes we see today. The result? A landscape that looks like something out of a dream—or a winter wonderland, despite the desert heat!
Sledding Down the Dunes: A Must-Try Family Activity
One of the most exciting and family-friendly activities at White Sands is sledding down the dunes. Because gypsum is softer than traditional sand, it’s much easier to slide down on a plastic sled or a disc. Here’s how to make the most of this fun experience:
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Bring a sled or buy one at the visitor center. If you don’t have one, the White Sands Visitor Center sells them, along with wax to help the sled glide more smoothly.
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Find a good dune. While many dunes are sled-worthy, look for one with a smooth slope and few footprints.
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Be mindful of safety. Make sure the slope isn’t too steep and watch for other visitors. Falling isn’t too bad since the gypsum is soft, but younger kids may need a little help climbing back up!
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Take goggles. You can see from the picture below our daughter was wearing her goggles, but the boys didn't bring theirs. Our youngest son on the dune in the photo below is covering his eyes because he was getting a lot of sand blown in his face.
Sledding at White Sands is an unforgettable experience.
A Peek into the History of White Sands
While the dazzling dunes are the main attraction, White Sands also has a rich history:
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Ancient Footprints: Archaeologists have discovered fossilized human footprints in the park dating back over 20,000 years, making them some of the oldest evidence of human life in North America.
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Indigenous Peoples: The Mescalero Apache and other Native American groups have lived in the region for centuries, adapting to the desert environment.
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Military History: The nearby White Sands Missile Range played a crucial role in World War II and the development of America’s space program. The first atomic bomb was tested at the Trinity Site, just north of the park, in 1945.
For families with older kids or teens, incorporating these historical elements can make your visit both educational and awe-inspiring.
Tips for Visiting White Sands with Kids
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Bring plenty of water. Even though the dunes reflect sunlight and stay cooler than traditional sand, the desert heat can be intense.
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Visit in the morning or late afternoon. Midday temperatures can soar, especially in summer. Early mornings and evenings provide cooler temperatures and stunning views at sunrise or sunset.
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Wear sunglasses and sunscreen. The white sand reflects the sun, making it extra bright.
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Pack a picnic. There are shaded picnic areas where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery. They have several covered picnic areas in the park. You should know, however, that we ate a lot of sand with our dinner. The wind was blowing almost constantly during our visit.
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Check for road closures. Because White Sands is near a missile testing range, the park occasionally closes for test operations. Be sure to check the official website before you go.
Why White Sands is Perfect for Traveling Families
White Sands National Park is an ideal destination for families looking for adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of history. Whether you’re sledding down the dunes, learning about ancient footprints, or simply enjoying the surreal landscape, this park offers something for everyone. So pack your sleds, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure at White Sands!
As if the fun and history wasn't enough, White Sands National Park has one more trick up it's sleeve - the sunsets. As the sun sets behind the mountains, the whole park begins to glow, creating the perfect opportunity for beautiful photos.
Waves in the sand create a beautiful pattern.
If you're hoping to visit, be sure to prepare with the tips I've provided here. This is definitely a must-see park.