Red Sands OHV Area
Vast, free-to-camp sand dunes offering a private off-roading paradise for all vehicle types. Be prepared for self-sufficiency.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid extreme heat
Red Sands OHV Area
Best Time
Avoid extreme heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast, free-to-camp sand dunes offering a private off-roading paradise for all vehicle types. Be prepared for self-sufficiency.
"Beautiful place with a ton of room to ride and have your own privacy. Lots of sand but still beginner friendly."
💧 Bring Ample Water
Crucial for survival, especially in summer. No services available.
⛽ Fuel Up & Spares
Carry extra gas and spare tires; services are non-existent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Sand Dunes
Throughout the area
Endless rolling sand dunes perfect for off-roading adventures and exploring.
Privacy and Space
Throughout the area
Ample room to ride and find your own secluded spot for an immersive experience.
Beginner-Friendly Riding
Throughout the area
The sandy terrain offers a forgiving environment for those new to off-roading.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Sand
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Ample Water
Crucial for survival, especially in summer. No services available.
⛽ Fuel Up & Spares
Carry extra gas and spare tires; services are non-existent.
Off-road Riding
Alamogordo, White Sands, Cloudcroft, and Roswell Travels
⚠️ Watch for Debris
Sharp objects like nails and glass are present; be cautious.
🛻 All Vehicle Types Welcome
Great for dirt bikes, ATVs, SXS, jeeps, and trucks.
Off Roading Tips & Tricks
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Ample Water
Crucial for survival, especially in summer. No services available.
⛽ Fuel Up & Spares
Carry extra gas and spare tires; services are non-existent.
⚠️ Watch for Debris
Sharp objects like nails and glass are present; be cautious.
🛻 All Vehicle Types Welcome
Great for dirt bikes, ATVs, SXS, jeeps, and trucks.
🤫 Respect the Environment
Pack out all trash to help keep this amazing place open.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Red Sands OHV Area for its vast, private sand dunes that are beginner-friendly for off-roading. However, a significant drawback is the complete lack of services, requiring visitors to be fully self-sufficient with water, fuel, and supplies. Concerns about trash and sharp debris are also frequently mentioned.
"Beautiful place with a ton of room to ride and have your own privacy. Lots of sand but still beginner friendly. Sad there’s a lot of trash. Please pick up after yourselves and others so the environment crazies don’t shut amazing places like this down!!! I would definitely recommend"
Chris B
"Spent a wonderful night in an RV there with kids, the trains and cars are a bit loud during the night but the experience from the red sand dunes and nothing else in the view was amazing."
Magdaléna Chytrá
"We always have a great time!"
Dana Pate
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Red Sands OHV Area is located near Alamogordo, New Mexico. Access is typically via local roads from the highway. It's recommended to use GPS or a mapping app for precise directions.
While it's a designated OHV area, signage can be minimal. Having a reliable GPS or checking maps beforehand is advised.
The closest major city is Alamogordo, New Mexico, which offers basic services and amenities.
No, public transportation is not available. A personal vehicle or trailer is necessary to reach and explore the area.
Roads leading to the staging areas are generally unpaved and can be sandy or rough. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, especially after rain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Camping at Red Sands OHV Area is generally free, and there are no specific entry fees mentioned. However, always check for any local regulations or changes.
The area is typically open for riding and camping 24/7, as it's an open OHV area. However, it's wise to be aware of local ordinances regarding noise or overnight stays.
Based on user reviews, camping is free, and no admission fees are typically associated with riding in the Red Sands OHV Area.
No, camping is on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservations available.
While generally open, it's advisable to avoid entering very late at night due to potential hazards and limited visibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The terrain is predominantly sand dunes, offering a unique off-roading experience. It's mostly sand, making it beginner-friendly.
Yes, many reviewers mention it's beginner-friendly due to the vast sandy areas.
It's ideal for off-roading with dirt bikes, ATVs, SXS, jeeps, and trucks. Enjoy riding the dunes and exploring the open space.
No, there are ZERO services, including water. You must bring everything you need.
It's generally a quiet area with lots of privacy, except possibly during special events like the Tarantula event.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are absolutely no services, including food or dining options. You must bring all your own food and drinks.
The nearest dining options would be in Alamogordo, New Mexico, which is a short drive away.
Campfire regulations can vary. It's best to check local fire restrictions before planning a campfire.
Pack plenty of non-perishable food, snacks, and a significant amount of water.
The closest grocery stores are in Alamogordo. Stock up before heading to the OHV area.
📸 📸 Photography
The vast sand dunes offer stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive dunes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare. Protect your gear from sand.
The unique landscape of the red sand dunes themselves is the main subject. You might also capture off-road vehicles in action.
Golden hours (sunrise and sunset) provide the most beautiful light and long shadows across the dunes. Midday can be harsh.
Use a camera cover or a sealed bag when not actively shooting. Clean your gear thoroughly after your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be extra vigilant about safety. Ensure children are properly supervised, especially around vehicles and potential hazards like sharp debris. The extreme heat in summer is a major concern, so plan visits during cooler months or early/late in the day. Crucially, pack significantly more water than you think you'll need, as there are no facilities. Bringing snacks and easy-to-eat meals is also essential.
💰 Budget Travelers
The main consideration for budget travelers is the need for complete self-sufficiency. Since there are no services, you'll need to factor in the cost of bringing all your own food, water, and fuel. Planning your meals and ensuring you have enough gas for your vehicle and any generators you might use is key to a cost-effective trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Off-Roading Adventures at Red Sands
It's crucial to be well-prepared for your visit. As noted by many visitors, there are absolutely no services available, meaning you must bring all your own water, fuel, and spare parts. The heat can be intense, especially during summer months, making hydration paramount. Be mindful of sharp debris like nails and broken glass scattered in staging areas, a common complaint from visitors who urge others to clean up after themselves to preserve the area.
While generally a quiet and private spot, be aware of potential noise from nearby trains and trucks. The lack of services contributes to the feeling of remoteness and the ability to find your own secluded riding area. Plan your trip accordingly, ensuring you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable off-roading experience.
Camping and Preparedness
Essential items include a substantial amount of water, fuel for your vehicles, food, and any repair kits or spare parts you might need. The desert environment can be unforgiving, and being stranded without water or a working vehicle could be dangerous. Many reviewers emphasize the importance of carrying extra water and being prepared for extreme heat, especially during the summer.
While the area offers privacy, it's also important to be a responsible camper. The presence of trash left by others is a recurring concern, and visitors are strongly encouraged to pack out everything they pack in. This helps maintain the natural beauty of the area and prevents potential closures due to environmental concerns.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit