White Sands National Monument is one of those other-worldly places. Located in southern New Mexico this park is truly one of a kind. We visited three years ago on our initial trip from Virginia to Utah and the kids have been begging to go back. When we decided to stay west this winter they unanimously…
Layer upon layer of gypsum sand scattered across miles of sweeping dunes. With promises of sledding and fun we excitedly geared up for an afternoon of exploring. When we visited: January 23, 2014 Ages of kids: 8, 6, 3 Tips: Plastic bottomed boogie boards work really well as sleds. “Mom? Is that snow?” One of the kids…
We made it to New Mexico! After a brief stint with a sick 3 year old, we landed in Brantley Lake State Park outside of Carlsbad, New Mexico. We spent a great few days there, explored the caves, earned another junior ranger badge and enjoyed the sunrises. We also drove through White Sands National Monument…
Great talking to you at City of Rocks SP! The astronomy night worked out perfect. Kids inspired, great clear weather and got to swap traveling family stories. Perfect! Looking at your website – which looks incredible btw – I see so many similarities to our trip. The most surprising of all was your pic of Robot Turtles! We have that new game, too (backed it on Kickstarter). The developer is a neighbor of a friend in Seattle. We’ve only played it a few times, but have enjoyed it so far. We love games and have a number on the trip with us.
Lastly, my wife says the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum was good, but not an absolute must. In the end, it’s a zoo. A good zoo, but still just a zoo. Hope that helps in your decision process. Enjoy Saguaro Natl Park. Also, if do visit Phoenix, we definitely recommend Lost Dutchman State Park. We enjoyed the science museum in Phoenix, too. It’s a long drive from the campground, but fun and free with the museum reciprocity.
Kudos to you for hitting the road with your kids and helping them appreciate the excitement of spontaneous adventure. We’re doing that now that we’ve retired, but I wish we had been able to gift our children like you are. White Sands dunes are indeed “other worldly,” I’m envious of your full moon visit. Thanks for the report.