White Sands National Park in New Mexico is one of the most unusual landscapes in the country. With miles of soft white dunes made of gypsum crystals, the park looks more like a beach than a desert. But it’s not just about the views.
The park and nearby Holloman Lake offer a unique mix of natural wonder, wildlife, and history, with some things to watch out for. While the park dazzles with endless gypsum dunes, the lake hides ecological secrets beneath its serene surface. This article uncovers what makes these destinations unique, from unexpected wildlife to hidden dangers, and how to explore responsibly.
1. What Makes White Sands So Special
Designated as a national park in December 2019, White Sands protects the world’s largest gypsum dune field. It spans across 712 sq km (275 sq mi) of the Tularosa Basin. Unlike typical quartz sand, these dazzling white dunes consist of gypsum crystals that remain cool to the touch even in scorching summers.
This park is home to the world’s largest gypsum dune field. At a glance, the park’s environment might appear barren, but it hosts remarkable biodiversity. Plants and animals have developed fascinating adaptations to survive in this harsh landscape. Some species, like the bleached earless lizard, have evolved white coloration to blend with the sands, a perfect example of natural selection.
According to the National Park Service, White Sands hosts more than 800 animal species, including invertebrates, birds, and reptiles found nowhere else on Earth. One standout, though controversial, resident is the South African oryx. Introduced in the 1970s for hunting, these large antelope now thrive in the region. SFGATE reveals this area is their only wild home in North America.
As of present, 6,000 oryx consider the White Sands their home, and while admired by many, their ability to breach park fences has raised concerns.
2. Are the oryx at White Sands dangerous?
While beautiful, the oryx are large wild animals with sharp horns. Park officials warn visitors to keep a safe distance and never approach them, and even though they typically avoid people, most issues happen when vehicles hit them or if they feel threatened. It is crucial for park rules to always be followed if you see one during your visit.
3. Holloman Lake: Great for RVs, Not for Swimming
A few miles from the park lies the Holloman Lake. It’s a popular free camping spot, especially for those with RVs. Visitors rate it highly for quiet nights, desert views, and easy access. Many travelers see it as a peaceful place to rest near the park, but there’s one big warning: don’t swim here.
The lake is full of PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals often called “forever chemicals” and these come from firefighting foam used on the nearby Holloman Air Force Base. The lake and its vicinity have some of the highest PFAS levels recorded countrywide, and even local fish and birds show extreme levels of contamination. January’s health advisory confirms just how bad it is. The New Mexico Department of Health has asked those who ingested waterfowl from Holloman Lake between 2010 and 2024 to get their blood tested. The reason is that the chemicals have reached plants and animals throughout the area.
For instance, experts discovered a Merriam’s kangaroo rat’s liver with 120,000 nanograms per gram (ng/g) of PFAS. This exposure is the highest verified count of PFAS in any wild animal globally. Similarly, a salt cedar extract recorded 30,000 ng/g of PFAS, possibly another global record for PFAS levels in a plant.
This contamination ties into ongoing legal discussions, including the AFFF lawsuit, which addresses accountability for PFAS pollution linked to firefighting foams. Many communities near military bases are now involved in similar cases. They’re raising concerns about water safety and long-term health risks from these chemicals.
TruLaw reveals over 8,920 cases have been filed in the litigation, with nearly 500 new cases filed this month. So while the lake might look calm and inviting, it’s best viewed from a distance.
4. What time of year is best to visit White Sands?
Fall and spring offer the most comfortable weather, with cooler temps and fewer windstorms. Summer can get very hot by midday, and winter nights are cold. Try to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for ideal lighting and fewer crowds.
5. Exploring White Sands National Park
When visiting White Sands, you can choose from hiking trails, from easy boardwalks to challenging dune hikes. The Alkali Flat Trail offers a more strenuous 8 km (5 mi) roundtrip across the heart of the dunes, while the Interdune Boardwalk provides an accessible 0.6 km (0.4 mi) experience with informative signs about the ecosystem.
One of the most popular activities at White Sands is sledding down the dunes, and plastic sleds are available at the visitor center gift shop, and the park staff can direct you to the best sledding spots. Rangers suggest visiting early in the morning or near sunset to avoid the heat and catch the best views.
For photographers who’d like to capture the essence of this place, early morning and late afternoon offer the most dramatic lighting, as the low sun creates striking shadows across the rippled dunes. The park occasionally offers full moon walks when conditions permit, providing a magical nighttime experience.
In March 2025, the park welcomed over 91,000 visitors, a 13% drop compared to last year, but AOL mentions that even with the decline, visitor engagement remained high. More than 2,000 people joined the popular sunset strolls, while nearly 50 attended a special Lake Lucero tour mid-month. A moonlight hike held on 14 March brought in another 46 visitors.
While you won’t expect signs of early human life here, recent discoveries prove otherwise. Just last year, archaeologists found 70 artifacts like flake stones and a unique instance of a primal ground stone at Holloman Air Force Base. Station officials said geomorphologists and officers from the 49th Civil Engineer Squadron environmental flight discovered the site in early March.
These items belong to the state’s earliest colonizers and are over 8,000 years old. According to the Military Times, the site is among the 400 prehistorical findings uncovered within the limits of Holloman. These details emphasize the area’s cultural significance.
6. How were the white sands formed?
The white sands started as gypsum in nearby mountains, and as rain dissolved the gypsum rock, the rivers carried this dissolved material into the Tularosa Basin. As the water dried over time, the gypsum crystals were left behind, and with the assistance of winds these were then broken into fine sand and shaped the large dunes.
7. Leave No Trace: Protecting This Unique Environment
As you explore the glistening dunes of White Sands, remember the delicate nature of this ecosystem. Stick to marked trails, pack out everything you pack in, and avoid disturbing the fragile plant and animal life. Your respect will help preserve this extraordinary landscape for future generations.
8. Capture the Magic, Respect the Distance
The stark white dunes offer incredible photographic opportunities. However, always prioritize safety and respect for wildlife, so use zoom lenses to capture the beauty of the oryx from a distance, and be mindful of their space. Your memories will be richer knowing you observed them responsibly.
9. Stay Informed and Heed Warnings
The story of Holloman Lake serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of human activities on the environment. Pay close attention to all posted advisories and health warnings. Staying informed ensures your safety and contributes to a greater understanding of the environmental challenges in the area.
10. A Landscape That Lingers
A visit to White Sands National Park is an experience unlike any other. The surreal beauty of the gypsum dunes and the intriguing ecological story of Holloman Lake will leave a lasting impression. By embracing the park’s wonders with respect and awareness, you’ll take away memories that go beyond just stunning scenery.
In conclusion, White Sands National Park and Holloman Lake embody the Southwest’s beauty, history, and complexity. While the dunes are safe and stunning to explore, the nearby lake serves as a reminder that not all water is safe. By visiting mindfully, you’ll leave with awe of the landscape and awareness of its fragility. Plan ahead, stay curious, and let these destinations surprise you.