White Sands National Park is a natural wonderland of stunning landscapes and wildlife. It is located in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico, and it is the world’s largest gypsum dunefield. White Sands National Park offers visitors the chance to explore the vast desert wilderness, while also enjoying a variety of recreational opportunities.
Camping in White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park offers both front-country camping and primitive backcountry camping for visitors. Front-country camping is available at White Sands Campground, which offers 24 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads.
The campground has flush toilets and potable water is available from a hand pump. Campers can enjoy fishing, hiking, biking and birdwatching within the park’s boundaries.
Backcountry camping is also allowed in certain areas of White Sands National Park with a valid permit. Backcountry camping requires that campers carry all necessary supplies and equipment with them, as there are no facilities available in the backcountry area. There are several trails that lead into the backcountry area where campers can set up their campsite for overnight stays.
Things to Consider When Camping in White Sands
When camping in White Sands National Park it is important to be prepared for extreme temperatures that range from hot during the day to very cold during the night. It is also important to be aware of your impact on the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles such as packing out all trash and respecting wildlife. Additionally, campers should be aware of potential hazards such as flash flooding during monsoon season which runs from July through August each year.
Can You Camp Anywhere in White Sands National Park?
The answer to this question depends on what type of camping you are looking for; however, both front-country and backcountry camping are allowed in White Sands National Park with a valid permit or registration. For front-country camping there is one designated campground available within the park boundaries; however, for those who want an even more remote experience backcountry camping opportunities are available throughout certain areas of the park with a valid permit or registration.
Conclusion: You can camp anywhere in White Sands National Park if you have a valid permit or registration; however, before heading out into this majestic desert wilderness it is important to be prepared for extreme temperatures and potential hazards such as flash flooding during monsoon season each year.
