Red Sands OHV Area – New Mexico Off-Roading

Red Sands Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area, located roughly 20 miles south of Alamogordo, New Mexico, offers expansive dunes and open terrain for adventurous off-roaders.

Known for its network of user-created trails weaving through mesquite coppice dunes, this public area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) invites exploration by motorcycles, ATVs, and other four-wheel-drive vehicles.

With no fees, year-round access, and freedom to explore both marked routes and off-trail areas, Red Sands caters to a range of skill levels. Though lacking formal facilities, its primitive camping opportunities and proximity to regional attractions like White Sands National Park make it a compelling destination for newcomers and seasoned riders alike.

Destination Details

Season	Open year-round
Location	Red Sands OHV Area, south of Alamogordo, NM
General GPS	32.588590, -106.018205
Management	Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Las Cruces District
Trails	Over 100 miles of user-developed trails
State	New Mexico
Nearest Major City	Alamogordo, NM (20 miles north)

Getting Oriented

Red Sands is a desert landscape marked by mesquite coppice dunes varying from a few feet to several meters in height. The area’s loose, sandy terrain provides both novice-friendly surfaces and more demanding challenges for experienced riders. Winter visits offer mild conditions, while summers can be extremely hot; spring and fall are often ideal for comfortable temperatures.

With no on-site amenities or services, self-sufficiency is crucial. Plan for adequate water, food, navigation tools, and vehicle recovery gear. Red Sands provides a straightforward introduction to desert off-roading and serves as a platform for honing essential riding skills.

Getting to Red Sands OHV Area

From Alamogordo:
Travel south on U.S. Highway 54 for about 20 miles. Access points to the OHV area are found between mile markers 44 and 45 on the west side of the highway. These turn-offs are primitive, so drive cautiously and be prepared for sandy conditions.

From Las Cruces (for reference):
Drive northeast on U.S. Highway 70 toward Alamogordo, then head south on U.S. Highway 54. Continue until you reach the access points near mile markers 44 and 45. Stock up on supplies before leaving Las Cruces or Alamogordo, as the OHV area has no services.

Trail Overview

Red Sands does not feature a formal trail system; instead, visitors encounter a web of user-created routes. Riders may explore over 100 miles of sandy tracks and open dunes, honing their navigation skills as they adapt to shifting surfaces. Weather conditions—including wind and rain—can reshape the terrain regularly.

Occasional organized events, such as the annual Tarantula 100 motorcycle race held in February, introduce marked routes temporarily. Outside of events, riders rely on their own maps, GPS devices, or route-finding abilities. Exercise caution, let someone know your travel plans, and consider riding with a partner for added safety.

Where to Camp?

Dispersed and primitive camping are allowed in the Red Sands area, though no formal campgrounds or amenities exist. Choose previously used sites to minimize environmental impact and adhere to Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all waste and respect any fire restrictions in place.

With no developed facilities, you must bring all essential supplies—water, food, and sanitation gear. Camping beneath the desert sky offers a quiet, open expanse for stargazing, and the area’s dramatic sunrises and sunsets add to the experience.

Points of Interest

• White Sands National Park: Just north of Red Sands, White Sands boasts the world’s largest gypsum dune field. Although off-roading is not permitted within the park, its hiking trails and scenic views are well worth a visit.
• Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument: West of Las Cruces, this monument invites exploration on foot, offering rugged peaks and dramatic vistas.
• Local Flora and Fauna: Mesquite and other desert plants create habitats for small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Keep noise and dust to a minimum, and view wildlife from a respectful distance.

For more information, contact the BLM Las Cruces District at (575) 525-4300. Always verify current conditions, fire restrictions, and any special events before setting out. With proper preparation, Red Sands OHV Area delivers a rewarding, minimalist desert riding experience deep in the heart of New Mexico’s backcountry.