Military Testing Park Closures

Cone and gate across road with red and white  signs reading “Do Not Enter” and “Road Closed”
When military tests are in progress Dunes Drive is closed to all traffic.

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White Sands Missile Range regularly conducts military tests. For visitor safety, the only road into the dunefield, Dunes Drive, may be closed for periods of up to three hours during missile tests. Park staff is usually notified two weeks in advance of scheduled tests; however, notifications from White Sands Missile Range may be received up to 24 hours in advance of a test. Park staff work to inform the public as far in advance as possible for upcoming tests and park closures.

Please note that all activities, including: horseback riding, backcountry camping (currently closed indefinitely) , hiking, sledding, and driving on Dunes Drive is prohibited during all missile tests that require closure of Dunes Drive for visitor safety.

The park visitor center and gift shop remain open during missile test closures.

US Highway 70 between White Sands National Park and Las Cruces may also be closed during missile testing. For US Highway 70 closure information, call White Sands Missile Range at (575) 678-1178.

Upcoming Park Closure(s):

Date Park Closure Time US 70 Blocked Backcountry Camping
4/24/2024 7 am - 9 am No Closed

Last updated: March 25, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 1086
Holloman AFB, NM 88330

Phone:

575 479-6124

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