Camping In White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is a unique wilderness area located in southern New Mexico, known for its stunning white sand dunes and unique geological formations. Camping in the park is a popular activity for visitors, offering the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park and experience the tranquility of the desert environment. In this article, we will explore some of the camping options available in White Sands National Park.

Camping at the Park

White Sands National Park offers two campgrounds for visitors, the White Sands Loop Campground and the Backcountry Camping Area. Both campgrounds provide visitors with a unique camping experience, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and easy access to the park’s hiking trails and other recreational activities.

White Sands Loop Campground

The White Sands Loop Campground is the only developed campground in the park, offering a range of amenities for visitors. The campground features 10 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire pit. The campground also features flush toilets and potable water, making it a convenient option for visitors looking for a more traditional camping experience.

The campground is open year-round, but availability may be limited during peak season, so visitors are encouraged to make reservations in advance. The campground is located near the park’s visitor center, making it easy to access the park’s facilities and amenities.

Backcountry Camping Area

For visitors looking for a more remote and secluded camping experience, the Backcountry Camping Area offers a unique opportunity to explore the park’s wilderness areas. The Backcountry Camping Area is located in the park’s eastern section, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and easy access to the park’s hiking trails.

The Backcountry Camping Area features 10 designated campsites, each located at least one mile from the nearest road or trail. Visitors are required to obtain a free backcountry camping permit from the park’s visitor center before camping in the area.

Backcountry camping in White Sands National Park is a unique experience, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and solitude. Visitors should be prepared for primitive camping conditions, with no facilities or amenities available in the backcountry camping area.

What to Bring

Whether camping at the White Sands Loop Campground or in the Backcountry Camping Area, visitors should come prepared for the unique challenges of camping in a desert environment. Here are some essential items to bring when camping in White Sands National Park:

Water: The desert environment can be harsh, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Visitors should bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.

Sun Protection: The park’s white sand dunes can be blindingly bright, with the sun’s rays reflecting off the sand and causing sunburns and eye damage. Visitors should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect themselves from the sun’s rays.

Camping Gear: Visitors should bring all necessary camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking equipment. Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings in the White Sands Loop Campground, but not in the Backcountry Camping Area.

Hiking Gear: White Sands National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from short nature walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Visitors should bring appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy footwear, a daypack, and plenty of water.

Insect Repellent: Insects, including mosquitoes and biting flies, can be present in the park, especially during the summer months. Visitors should bring insect repellent to avoid bites and stings.

Wildlife

White Sands National Park is home to a variety of wildlife species, many of which can be seen while camping in the park. Visitors may spot desert species such as kit foxes, coyotes, and jackrabbits, as well as a variety of bird species, including roadrunners and horn