The phenomenal 275-sq-mile White Sands National Park (nps.gov/whsa; $25 per vehicle) is nowhere near the ocean, the dunes are actually made from powdered gypsum crystals that blew from an ancient sea over the San Andres and Sacramento Mountains 4000 to 7000 years ago.
Drive
From the visitor center, drive the 16-mile scenic sandy loop (fine for cars and RVs) and stop along the way to sink your toes in the dunes.The temperature can change by 50°F in a day. Bring lots of water (1 gallon per day per person). Picnic areas along the drive offer shaded benches for lunch.
Walk
Walking in the silence and solitude of the dunes is almost a spiritual experience, especially at sunrise or sunset when the sea of sand sparkles. Escape the crowds on the Alkali Flat, a 5-mile round-trip backcountry trail through the heart of White Sands (follow the markers as it's easy to get lost). It's really a winter trail but possible to hike if you come early before it's hot. Or try the simple 1-mile loop Dune Life Nature Trail, which climbs two steep dunes rich with desert plant life.
Slide
Tumble down the dune or slide down on a sled or sandbar of your choice. You can buy/rent a plastic saucer ($24.99/15) at the visitor-center gift shop. You can rent a board for $25 to surf the dunes. Buy wax to make it a faster experience.
Camp
You can camp in the vast desert on the 2-mile round-trip Backcountry Camping Loop Trail (no water, shade or toilets). When darkness falls the dunes mirror the night sky for ultimate blackness – the Milky Way is visible on a moonless night. At the time of research, camping was unavailable due to maintenance – check before a visit.
