White Sands National Monument

White Sands National Monument

National monument, south-central New Mexico, U.S. Established in 1933, it covers 225 sq mi (583 sq km) and lies between the San Andres and the Sacramento mountains. Its white gypsum sand constantly drifts into dunes 10–60 ft (3–18 m) high. The San Andres National Wildlife Refuge, White Sands Missile Range, and Holloman Air Force Base are nearby.

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White Sands National Monument

Parks Directory of the United States / US National Parks / National Monuments

Address: PO Box 1086
Holloman AFB, NM 88330
Phone: 505-679-2599;
Web: www.nps.gov/whsa/
Size: 143,733 acres.
Established: Proclaimed on January 18, 1933.
Location: On US 70, 15 miles southwest of Alamogordo and 52 miles east of Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Facilities: Backcountry campsites, picnic area (é), rest rooms (é), visitor center (é), self-guided tour/trail. Entrance fee required.
Activities: Camping, hiking, bicycling, auto touring, ranger-led walks and programs.
Special Features: The park contains a significant portion of the world's largest gypsum dunefield. The glistening white dunes rise 60 feet high and cover 275 square miles. Small animals have adapted to this harsh environment by developing light, protective coloration. Plants also have adapted, extending root systems to remain atop the ever-shifting dunes.

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See other parks in New Mexico.