WHITE SANDS NATIONAL MONUMENT

A marvel, a jewel! There are not enough words to describe this wonderful park, which is full of surprises. Immerse yourself in the dunes, glide across the white of another planet. One of the most beautiful natural parks in the country, and certainly one of the most astonishing. Although the park is vast, you can only stay in the south-eastern part. The Dune Drive leads from the entrance (near the visitor center) 13 km into the dunes, and is the only way to visit by car. From this main road, there are four signposted trails (the longest of which is 5 miles long) that allow you to explore the dunes on foot, passing through magnificent scenery. The trails are marked by small posts along the dunes, to help you find your way around this confusing desert. Don't venture too far or you'll get lost, and watch out for rattlesnakes, which are very common in the area. Here lies the heart of a unique ecosystem where you can picnic or go tobogganing.

Unfortunately, the campsite is currently closed due to the rehabilitation of camping sites. No date has yet been set for its reopening. In addition, you should find out in advance about forthcoming missile tests, which take place on a fairly regular basis in the park, causing it to close for several hours. Visit the website for more information. It would be a shame to go there and not be able to get in!