Getting to White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park sits in NM, United States, with Holloman Air Force Base the nearest town of any size — about 14.2 mi (22.8 km) out, or roughly 36 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Holloman Air Force Base | 14.2 mi (22.8 km) | 36 min |
| Boles Acres | 20.1 mi (32.3 km) | 46 min |
| Alamogordo | 23 mi (37 km) | 52 min |
| La Luz | 26.3 mi (42.4 km) | 57 min |
| Tularosa | 27.2 mi (43.7 km) | 59 min |
| White Sands | 28.9 mi (46.5 km) | 1 hr 2 min |
| Doña Ana | 39 mi (62.8 km) | 1 hr 19 min |
| Radium Springs | 39.8 mi (64 km) | 1 hr 20 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to White Sands National Park?
Holloman Air Force Base, about 14.2 mi (22.8 km) away — roughly 36 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting White Sands National Park?
The practical bases are Holloman Air Force Base, Boles Acres, and Alamogordo — all within a reasonable drive of the park.