Glamping sites near White Sands National Park offer visitors rustic luxury accommodation options within driving distance of the stunning white gypsum dunes. The area sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation with desert temperatures ranging from winter lows near freezing to summer highs above 95°F. Most sites have electrical hookups for air conditioning during hot months, which can make the difference between a comfortable stay and a challenging one.
What to do
Visit White Sands National Park: Located about 30 minutes from Alamogordo, the park requires a daily entrance fee. "White Sands is very close. The staff was super helpful and friendly. Our kids enjoyed the playground," notes a visitor at Alamogordo / White Sands KOA.
Explore nearby hiking trails: Dog Canyon trail at Oliver Lee State Park offers challenging terrain with rewarding views. "My second time here. Great sites, and the Dog Canyon hike is excellent. Quiet and friendly!" according to a camper staying at Oliver Lee.
Stargaze in the desert: The minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for astronomy. "Quiet nights with low light pollution for amazing stargazing opportunities!" mentions a reviewer at Gleatherland, which offers accommodation just 20 miles from El Paso.
Visit historic sites: The area contains significant archeological treasures and rock art. A visitor to Hueco Tanks State Park Campground shares: "They only allow 70 people through a day, so it is not crowded at all. There is an area for self guided tours & an area only for guided tours...the guided tour was only $5 p/person and lasted about 3 hrs."
What campers like
Mountain views: The dramatic landscape provides a stunning backdrop for camping. "Wonderful views from the base of the mountains. We got there around dusk (on a Friday) and it was pretty full," reports a camper at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. A visitor to Las Cruces KOA notes, "Big shoutout to the clean restrooms(yes, marble floors!) and the dog park, which our pup loved."
Quiet atmosphere: Despite being close to attractions, many sites offer peaceful settings. "Remote desert camping with plenty of amenities. From primitive camping for $5/night to limited RV hook-ups (gray water, fresh water, electric), yurt & trailer rentals," explains a Gleatherland visitor.
Patio amenities: Premium sites often include outdoor living spaces. A reviewer at Las Cruces KOA shares: "We stayed in a patio site. The site was spacious and level. A fire pit with chairs, a propane grill, and table with 4 chairs was provided."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The area experiences extreme temperatures and seasonal winds. "BEWARE: March is 'Windy season'. We got caught on the first day of it I think! Big gusty winds at night for us. The drive there can get dangerous," warns a visitor at Alamogordo / White Sands KOA.
Water conservation: Some parks have water restrictions. A camper at Hueco Tanks notes: "The campground sites are pretty level, have electric & water. However, when we were there they asked to conserve as much water as possible & even use our own if possible."
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near some campgrounds. "There is a train close by that blew the horn very loud all throughout the night. Woke me up at 1am, 3am, and 5:30 am," reports an Alamogordo KOA camper.
Reservation requirements: Some parks strictly limit visitors. "Cant get in between the hours of 8am & 10am, unless you have a online reservation to even just stay for the day. Closes at 5pm sharp," advises a Hueco Tanks visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pack for temperature shifts: Desert temperature swings can be dramatic. "We used the air conditioner for the hot mid days and heat in the early mornings," notes a camper at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
Consider recreational amenities: Some sites offer family-friendly activities. "The kids enjoyed cornhole, basketball, tetherball, and the playground. The store was well stocked," shares a Las Cruces KOA visitor.
Plan for limited connectivity: Cell service varies greatly by location. A camper at Sunny Acres RV Park mentions, "Very close to shopping, groceries, car wash and major intersections. Easy to find with GPS."
Book guided tours early: Educational programs enhance the visit for children. "The Ranger tour of the pictographs in the park that is so close by" was highlighted by a Gleatherland visitor as a valuable experience.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure awareness: Some campgrounds have unusually high water pressure. "Water pressure is really high at around 155 psi. So definitely bring a regulator," warns a visitor to Alamogordo KOA.
Space between sites: RV spacing varies significantly between parks. "Sites are large and can easily accommodate large rigs. The sites are gravel with patios and picnic table," notes a Sunny Acres visitor.
Overnight noise considerations: Be prepared for various sound sources. "One evening we could hear what we think to be artillery explosions from the White Sands missile range by the Air Force Base. Nothing alarming if you have heard artillery before. Short lived and did not interrupt our experience," explains an Oliver Lee Memorial camper.
Hookup verification: Always confirm what utilities are available. "We booked an electric only to arrive and find out it was a non-electric site. Talked to a great camp host who tried to help but ultimately didn't have any options," cautions a visitor to Oliver Lee Memorial State Park.
