Tent camping near White Sands, New Mexico offers access to the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem at elevations ranging from 4,000-8,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts between day and night, with summer highs regularly exceeding 95°F and winter nighttime lows dropping below freezing. The area receives less than 10 inches of annual rainfall, making water conservation essential for backcountry campers.
What to do
Climb nearby mountains: At Gap Tank dispersed camping, visitors can access hiking trails to Mount Riley. According to Jacob W., "I've camped here twice in my truck bed—once in 2017 when I climbed Mt. Riley and once in 2020. Close to Mexican border but I didn't have any problems."
Wildlife observation: The desert landscape provides opportunities to observe native species. One camper at Gap Tank dispersed camping noted, "No javelinas this time, just a jackrabbit. Gap Tank was dry but nearby Mesquite Tank had water and even a little ice on the edges."
Stargazing: The remote location offers exceptional dark sky viewing. "The sky was dark at night and we couldn't see any electric lights. Kind of cool so close yet so far from El Paso," reports a visitor to Sierra Vista - Back Side Dispersed.
Sand boarding: Some visitors focus less on camping and more on recreational activities. As Rosa H. notes about the White Sands primitive sites, "Not really sure how good the camp grounds are. Great for just sand boarding."
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Backcountry camping provides isolation from crowds. One camper at Backcountry Primitive Sites explained, "I love camping where you aren't by people. This place is great. The loop is a little over 2 miles up and down the dunes and there are a few designated camp sites around the loop."
Unparalleled night sky: The clear desert air and minimal light pollution create ideal stargazing conditions. According to Hayley K., "I was the only one for what felt like miles. It was super easy to get a permit at the office and find a way into the dunes. The sand felt like heaven and the stars were incredible!"
Reflective sand surfaces: The unique gypsum sand creates special lighting conditions. Molly G. shared about the Backcountry Primitive Sites — White Sands National Park, "My dog would not let me go to bed- she wanted to keep playing- and with the moonlight reflecting off the sand, it almost felt like daytime!"
Well-spaced sites: At Sierra Vista, visitors appreciate the distance between camping areas. As noted by Ro G., "Quiet, pull through camp sites. There are even more dispersed spots if you go past the initial entrance. It's beautiful and clean which let's me know people take care to pack in and pack out."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Accessing remote sites often requires appropriate transportation. Laura M. advises about Sierra Vista, "You will need a high clearance 4x4 to get to these sites, or you can park in one of the sites in the beginning lot and hike in. There are several large flat spots that are great for camping."
Limited permits: White Sands camping requires advance planning. Austin C. shares, "Showed up at 2pm on Tuesday and they still had 4 Backcountry camping permits available, $1.50 per person with annual pass."
Physical demands: Walking in sand requires extra effort. As Irene L. cautions about Baylor Canyon - Organ Mountains Basecamp, "Walking on sand is a lot more tiring than you think it'll be and water is heavier than you think it'll be!"
Weather variability: Desert conditions can change rapidly. Jacob W. notes about Gap Tank, "I tent camped at Gap Tank again in January 2025. Awesome time again. It was actually cold then."
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking distances: White Sands offers accessible backcountry experiences. Irene L. recommends, "This isn't a campground but backcountry camping with a hike to the site of under a mile, so it's perfect for backpacking trips for families."
Emergency assistance: Always inform rangers of your plans. One visitor emphasizes, "You need to get a permit, which is very cheap, and forces you check in with the rangers about weather and whatever other issues there may be."
Safety awareness: Unique hazards exist in this area. Irene L. warns, "The weird thing is that there could be missiles on the sand sometimes!! So if you see something weird stay away and tell the rangers asap!!"
Water planning: The dry climate necessitates carrying all water. Leah W. emphasizes about Hueco Mountain Hut, "BRING ALL YOUR WATER! This is primitive backcountry camping."
Tips from RVers
Trailer accessibility: Some dispersed sites can accommodate small trailers. Amziah Z. reports, "I showed up here with my travel trailer, I think it was a good place to park and enjoy the view and night time breeze."
Site location strategy: For the best experience at Sierra Vista, Darin C. advises, "You will need a 4x4 to get into the back area. The last few spots are the best."
After-hours options: When campgrounds are full, alternatives exist. Stephen noted about Hueco Mountain Hut, "This was this only camp in the area that was open and willing to let us stay the night. They guy working there was very helpful and gave a us a discount."
