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National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
March 3, 2025, replaces May 7, 2024 
NPS Photo AUTHORITYIn accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7 and Part 34, authorized by Title 54 United States Code, Section 100751, the following regulatory provisions are established for the proper management, protection, government and public use of those portions of White Sands National Park under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter1, Parts 1-7 as incorporated in Part 34. Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, are required by§ 1.5(c) and appear in this document as italic print. (Regulations are in boldface print.) Throughout this document, Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations is also referred to as the "general regulations." The primary purpose of the park is to provide and promote scenic, scientific, and educational opportunities while preserving the most impressive portion of the world's largest gypsum dunefield desert and protecting the endemic flora and fauna, unique human and paleontological history, and the quiet solitude of the dunes. Pertinent legislation
Legal Description.White Sands National Park is located in the Tularosa Basin of south central New Mexico, between the Sacramento and San Andres mountains. Its 146,344 acres are 15 miles southwest of Alamogordo, New Mexico in Otero and Dona Ana counties. White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base surround the Park.
Part 1 - General ProvisionsThe specific discretionary authority for Park Superintendents to establish reasonable schedules for visiting hours, impose public use limits, and close park areas for all public use or specific use is found in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) §1.5. These park-specific restrictions are also based upon 36 CFR, Chapters 1-7 to protect park resources, visitors and employees. Under CFR §1.7 notice of all restrictions, closures, designations and permit requirements will be made available to the general public by a least one or more of the following methods of notifications: maps, brochures, signs, permits, or other appropriate methods, as well as within this compendium
Section 1.5(a)(1) Closures and Public Use LimitsVisiting Hours -The Superintendent, or his/her designee, may close part or all the national park for visitor, employee safety and to protect the resource.
-White Sands National Park closes nightly. The times change throughout the year in with the season and sunset times, check park media at https://www.nps.gov/whsa/planyourvisit/hours.htm for current park opening hours. During special programs, the park may close later.
-The Superintendent, or his/her designee, may adjust operational hours open to the public to accommodate operational needs, provide for the safety of the public and to protect the resources. Since overnight use and camping is permitted in the park, only in established backcountry campsites or with a special park use permit, vehicle(s) may not otherwise remain in the park overnight without approval of the Park Superintendent or his/her designee.
Public Use Limits Closed Areas -The Park may be wholly or partly closed during military testing. The visitor center may remain open during operating hours. -Entry to the west half of the Park, known as the Co-Use Area, and all areas south of highway 70 is through permit only. -Residential and maintenance areas are closed to the public. These areas are closed due to safety considerations with UXO and resource protection. The Superintendent may allow permits to the Cooperative Use Area. Two weeks’ notice is required for consideration. Information on the area, potential environmental and other hazards will be available.
-A safety corridor starting at Mile 3 and ending at Mile 5.5 will be in place until further notice. Within the safety corridor stopping, parking or exiting a motor vehicle is prohibited unless given expressed written consent by the Superintendent or directed by a law enforcement ranger. This within the safety corridor is closed to all foot, horse, and other traffic. (See map below) Closed due to hazards present in the area caused by a jet crash that occurred in the park on April 30th, 2024.
-Use of vehicles and facilities without a permit in areas closed by chain gates is prohibited. Areas such as the Group Use Area, West Filming, and the Evening Program Area are set aside for special events and gatherings. Permits are required to access these areas by vehicle or to use the facilities such as rest rooms and picnic structures. Pedestrian traffic such as walking and hiking in these areas are open to all the visiting public while the park is open.
Unmanned Aircraft -Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of White Sands National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent and Regional Director. This restriction is necessary to maintain public health and safety, protect nationally significant cultural resources, protect wildlife, implement management responsibilities and avoid conflict among visitor use activities until the NPS can determine whether specific uses of unmanned aircraft on lands administered by the NPS are appropriate and will not cause unacceptable impacts on park resources and values. This closure is a necessary, interim measure until the NPS considers how to address this new use on a long-term basis and that allowing the use of unmanned aircraft before the park has properly evaluated whether this use is appropriate could result in unacceptable impacts to park resources, park values, and visitor safety. Additionally this regulation is necessary to prevent unauthorized aircraft activity that would violate military airspace with the potential to create safety hazards to military operations. Alcohol -The consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or the possession of a bottle, can, or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or unopened, or whose seal is broken, or the contents of which have been partially removed is prohibited within the proper/boundary of White Sands National Park except for areas identified in the Superintendent’s Compendium under 2.35 (a)(3)(i). The documented history of inappropriate behavior induced by the consumption of excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages has adversely affected the safety and enjoyment of visitors.
Smoke Bombs and Similar Devices Smoke bombs, Smoke grenades, powdered chalk and similar items used to create airborne particulates of any color are prohibited regardless if created with or without a flame. Recent trends of visitors bringing in devices that create smoke have caused damage to the resources by discoloring the sand. Also, the smoke could potentially interfere with neighboring military operations or falsely cause search and rescue operations.
Off-Highway Vehicles Use of all-terrain vehicles (ATV) and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), motorized vessels and any other type of motorized conveyance manufactured for recreational, non-highway, off-road or all terrain travel, including those licensed by a state for street use, within park boundaries is prohibited unless approved by the Superintendent or designee for emergency or operational purposes. The public use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and other motorized conveyances manufactured for recreational, non-highway, off road, or all terrain travel within the park boundaries poses a significant risk to visitor safety, park resources and values which cannot be appropriately mitigated and which cannot be sustained without causing unacceptable impacts. The use of such vehicle is, therefore, not consistent with the protection of the park.
Walking and Hiking Off Trail Hiking or pedestrian use of vegetated areas off designated trails and walking systems is prohibited Trail cutting in vegetated areas causes long term damage the plant life.
36 CFR § 1.6 PermitsPursuant to the provisions of 36 CFR 1.6(f), the following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the National Park Service is required. Permits are issued by the Superintendent and are subject to the requirements of the general regulations, and as specified in each permit. As stated in 36 CFR 1.6(g), engaging in these activities without a permit or violation of the terms and conditions of a permit is prohibited.
§2.1 Preservation of natural, cultural and archeological resources §2.4(d) Weapons, traps and nets §2.5 Research specimens §2.10 Camping §2.16 Horses and pack animals §2.17 Aircraft and air delivery §2.23 Recreation fees §2.35 Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances §2.38 Explosives §2.50 Special Park Uses, Events (including broadcasted non-NPS events i.e. amateur radio or similar non regulated broadcast) , weddings. §2.51 Public assemblies, meetings and 1st Amendment activities in designated areas. §2.52 Sale or distribution of printed matter §2.60 Livestock use and agriculture §2.61 Residing on federal lands §2.62(b) Memorialization §4.11 Load, weight and size limits §5.1 Advertisements §5.3 Business operations §5.5 Commercial photography and Film §5.10 Eating, drinking, or lodging establishments Part 2 - Resource Protection, Public Use and Recreation36 CFR § 2.1 Preservation of Natural, Cultural, and Archeological Resources(a) (4) There are no designated firewood gathering areas within White Sands National Park It has been determined that collection of firewood would have detrimental ecological effects on the desert plant communities, diminish aesthetic values, and have direct resource impacts.
36 CFR § 2.2 Wildlife Protection(e) Viewing of wildlife with artificial light is prohibited. The viewing of wildlife, especially mammals, with artificial light may adversely affect their behavior or cause the animal to become confused and stray into traffic, becoming a hazard.
36 CFR § 2.4 Weapons, Traps, Nets(e) The Superintendent may issue a permit to carry or possess a weapon, trap or net under the following circumstances: (1) When necessary to support research activities conducted in accordance with § 2.5. (2) To carry firearms for persons in charge of pack trains or saddle horses for emergency use. (3) For employees, agents or cooperating officials in the performance of their official duties. (4) To provide access to otherwise inaccessible lands or waters contiguous to a park area when other means of access are otherwise impracticable or impossible. Federal law continues to prohibit possession of firearms in designated federal facilities including visitor center, administration, entrance station, gift shops including concession operated gift shops, and maintenance buildings.
36 CFR § 2.10 Camping and Food Storage(a) The Superintendent may require permits, designate sites or areas, and establish conditions for camping sites. Camping is prohibited within the Park, except in designated camping sites and the Group Use Area. All camping or overnight activity is by permit only. Camping atop dunes is prohibited. This general regulation is necessary for visitor safety and to account for all campers in the event of a military test or other closure. This also reduces the visual impact of camping activity on day users. When an individual pays a camping fee, occupies a campsite, or registers in a campground, the following conditions are in effect (under 2.10(c) violating these conditions is prohibited and the permit may be suspended or revoked).
General Campground Regulations - Camping may not exceed 7 nights in one campsite location or 14 consecutive nights in a calendar month without prior approval from the superintendent. -Horses and pack animals are prohibited within the backcountry camping sites and trails. (See also 2.16(g)) -Backcountry campsite use is limited to a maximum of 6 persons per site -Groups in backcountry camping sites are limited to no more than 2 campsites with a maximum of 12 people total -RV or trailer camping is prohibited. This includes “pop-up” vans, trucks, and sleeping within vehicles. RV’s and trailers are permitted for day use only. -Tent camping within Group Use Area is by reservation and permit only -Camping is only allowed in an assigned site -No fires permitted -Only containerized fuel stoves are allowed in the designated backcountry camp sites. -Do not burn or bury litter or garbage. Pack out what is packed in. -Quiet hours 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. -Sites must be vacated by 11:00 a.m. -Campers must park at backcountry parking area/designated areas. -Pets must be on a 6 foot leash (see also 2.15(a)(2) -No generators allowed in backcountry sites -All other park regulations apply
These regulations are necessary for visitor safety, the protection of park resources, and to account for all campers in the event of a missile test or other military closure. These also reduce the visual impact of camping activity on day users.
(d) Food Storage. Through out the park when not in use food, lawfully taken fish or wildlife, garbage, and equipment used to cook or store food must be kept sealed in a vehicle, or in a camping unit that is constructed of solid, non-pliable material. Food and similar items attract wildlife at White Sands National Park and if they digest the items it may impair/injure the animal or create behavior inconsistent of its natural state.
36 CFR § 2.13 Fires(a) (1) Campfires, ground fires etc. are prohibited at White Sands National Park. Ground fires create unsightly scars and can become a hazard if buried. The heat from ground fires damages the gypsum sand crystals. Fire scars would reduce the visitor's experience of the park.
Personal grills are allowed in picnic areas and pull outs along the Dunes Drive. When using personal grills, charcoal must be removed from the park. If using one of the Park's grills leave the charcoal in the grill and douse with water. The improper disposal of hot coals and debris associated with charcoal grills would create the same hazards and adverse visual impacts as stated above, especially against the white sand. All coals must be disposed of properly. Only container style fuel stoves are allowed in the designated backcountry camp sites. The disposal of coals from the backcountry would be impractical due to the distances from the nearest metal container. Maintenance of coal containers in the backcountry would be impractical as well as unsightly, so the use of coals is prohibited.
Fire Pans and other fireproof containers are allowed except in camping areas and must be in compliance with the following: -The fire pans or other fireproof containers must be at least six inches above the ground. The heat from direct contact with the fireproof container can damage the gypsum sand crystals creating scars.
36 CFR § 2.14 Sanitation and Refuse(b) Human body waste must be buried at least 100 feet away from the designated backcountry campsites and trails and at least 6 inches deep. In front country areas, body waste must be disposed of in restrooms. Human body waste that is generated in backcountry areas may be disposed in trash receptacles, provided it is enclosed in commercial backcountry waste disposal bags with commercially available decomposition substances, such as "Pooh Powder". Human body waste is a threat to public health. Proper disposal of such waste is required to speed the decomposition process and reduce health hazards and visual pollution.
36 CFR § 2.15 Pets(a)(1) Pets are prohibited within public buildings, public transportation vehicles, or any other enclosed NPS structure This shall not apply to service dogs accompanying visually impaired persons or hearing ear dogs accompanying hearing impaired persons.
(a) (3) Pets may not be left unattended and tied to an object. Pets loose and/or unattended may present a possible hazard or threat to other visitors. The hot temperatures found at White Sands National Park can be deadly to pets left unattended in vehicles or other areas of the park. .
(a) (5) Pet owners must dispose of their pet's excrement in trash receptacles. Managing pet excrement in high use areas and areas where visitors congregate, sit, play, and lay down is necessary for human and pet health and safety..
36 CFR § 2.16 Horses and Pack AnimalsPack animals are defined as horses, mules, burros, llamas or other hoofed mammals when designated as pack animals designated by the Superintendent. The use of animals other than those designated as “pack animals” for purposes of transporting equipment is prohibited. For the purpose of this plan, the term “stock” holds the same definition. (g) The use of horses within the park is allowed under the following conditions: - Any horse and pack animal use are prohibited without a permit. - All horses and pack animals are prohibited from travel on Dunes Drive, picnic areas, the Group Use Area, the Backcountry Camping sites, all Trails, the Boardwalk and the Co-Use area. - Horse trailers must be parked in the designated areas: Horse Unloading Area or other areas as designated by a Law Enforcement Ranger - Riding is permitted only during park operating hours. - Horses will be securely tied to trailers when not being ridden. - Racing and all types of unsafe riding are prohibited. - Pets accompanying riders will always be on a leash and under physical control. - All debris (hay, grass, etc.) and horse excrement will be transported by the owner and disposed of outside the park. - No grazing of any vegetation in the park. - All horses and pack animals will always be under physical control/restraint. No free trailing or free riding is allowed. - All horse and stock use are day use only. No overnight camping with horses and/or stock is allowed. -During all military tests no horse use will be permitted. -Only five (5) horse/park animal permits will be issued per day. These conditions are necessary to permit the safe interaction of horse riders and other visitors and reduce the visual pollution, smell and possible health hazards associated with improperly disposed waste.
36 CFR § 2.20 Skating, Skateboards, and Similar DevicesUsing roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices is prohibited throughout White Sands National Park. Use of these devices is restricted to minimize conflicts with vehicles and Park traffic.
36 CFR § 2.21 Smoking(a) Smoking is prohibited inside all government buildings within White Sands National Park. The NPS strongly encourages a smoke free environment. Smoking and secondhand smoke have been identified as both a health and safety hazard. Smoking in Government housing is not recommended. Smoking is not allowed in shared Government housing. These restrictions are also enacted to protect public health and structures from fire danger or smoke.
36 CFR § 2.22 Property(a) (2) Property may be left unattended for longer than 24 hours at White Sands National Park only with prior permission from the superintendent or designee. The general regulation stated above is the only condition under which persons may leave property unattended in excess of 24 hours. Otherwise, property may be impounded according to the procedures stated in 36 CFR §2.22(b) and (c). (b) (1) Property left unattended more than 24 hours without permission will be impounded.
36 CFR § 2.23 Recreation Fees(c) Entrance fees will be suspended on National Public Lands Day and during any other period as determined by the superintendent or designee. When suspending fees safety due to traffic on US Highway 70 will be taken into consideration.
36 CFR § 2.35 Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances(a) (3) (i) White Sands National Park is closed to the consumption of alcoholic beverages all year except at the following locations: Yucca Picnic Area, Road Runner Picnic Area, Primrose Picnic Area, and Group Use Area. Alcohol is prohibited in the Evening Program Area except during NPS events.
This is to ensure there are proper trash receptacles and for the glass containers typically associated with alcoholic beverages. It is also a Preventive Search and Rescue (P-SAR) measure to ensure that people who are under the influence of alcohol do not get lost while inebriated. 36 CFR § 2.51 Demonstrations and designated available park areas.(b) Demonstrations of more than 25 people are allowed within park areas designated as available under paragraph (c)(2) when the Superintendent has issued a permit for the activity. (c)(2) Designated locations -White Sands National Park Visitor Center near the parking area (see map below). -Backcountry Camping Parking Area (see map below). These regulations are enacted to ensure the protection of park resources, prevent interference with interpretive or other NPS sponsored programs or activities and reduce conflicts with other visitors.
36 CFR § 2.52 Sale or Distribution of Printed MatterLocation of such sale or distribution will be limited to areas allowed by the Superintendent and will generally be limited to areas listed in 2.51(c)(2). The Superintendent must issue or deny a sale or distribution of printed material on a proper application within ten days of receiving a complete and fully executed application
Permits for this type of activity are necessary to manage the sale or distribution of printed mater when such activity may conflict or interfere with normal NPS operations.
36 CFR § 2.62 Memorialization(b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation is allowed pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit which are as follows: -Remains to be scattered must have been cremated and finely reduced. -Scattering by persons on the ground is to be performed at least 100 yards from any trail, road, developed facility or body of water. -The scattering of human remains are prohibited in following areas: -Scattered human remains shall not be distinguishable to the general public and shall not be left in any type of container and all containers shall be removed from area. -Except for authorization to disperse human remains by scattering, nothing in this permit shall be construed as authorizing an entry or activity otherwise prohibited or restricted by law or regulation. -A permit must be obtained from the superintendent prior to dispersal of any remains. Other conditions may apply. Part 3 -Vehicles and Traffic Safety36 CFR § 4.11 Load, Weight, and Size Limits(b) (1) The operation and entry into the park beyond the fee booth of any tractor/trailer for recreational purposes is prohibited without an approved permit from the superintendent or his/her designee. Tractor/trailer operators wishing to visit the Park may park their trailers at the pullout on US Highway 70 west of the park’s entrance. This provision is enacted for the safety of visitors and the protection of the road surface.
36 CR § 4.21 Speed Limits(b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated: - White Sands National Park has an established speed limit of 45 miles per hour except in areas where that speed limit has been identified as unreasonable or unsafe. Those areas will have the speed limit posted and are as follows - From mile post 2.5 to 4.5 the speed limit is designated as 35 miles per hour -Starting at mile post 4.5 and continuing throughout the rest of the gypsum packed roadway the speed limit is designated as 25 miles per hour -From the entrance gate to Entrance Station, within all picnic areas, the employee housing area, maintenance compound, administration complex, and the service road these areas are designated as 15 miles per hour. The superintendent has determined that these restrictions are necessary to for visitor safety, and to resource protection such as wildlife collisions.
36 CFR § 4.30 Bicycles(a)Park Roads. Bicycle use is permitted on park roads, parking areas, and where general vehicle use is allowed by the public (f) Closures and other restrictions: -Bicycles are prohibited everywhere except park roads, parking areas. -One hour before sunset until one hour after sunrise helmets, headlights and taillights will be required while on roadways and parking areas. These provisions are enacted for the safety of visitors. Part of the park’s road is made of gypsum sand which can have imperfections that may be difficult to see in the dark. Lights on the bikes reflects NM State Law and helps provide for better visibility for NPS Staff and other cyclist.
(i) Electric Bikes “E-Bikes”“The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.). -E-bikes are allowed in White Sands National Park where traditional bicycles are allowed. Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within White Sands National Park is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.”
36 CFR § 4.31 HitchhikingHitchhiking is prohibited at White Sands National Park, except for emergency purposes (i.e. medical needs, extreme weather conditions) or inoperative vehicle and unable to contact park personnel for assistance. Hitchhiking is prohibited due to the park’s proximity to the county jail and illegal migration activity that has occurred in the park.
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Last updated: March 4, 2025