Carlsbad. Carlsbad. Carlsbad. All anyone ever talks about when they talk about southern New Mexico is Carlsbad Caverns. And that’s cool. By all means, go to Carlsbad Caverns. But don’t pass up the chance to also visit White Sands National Monument near Alamogordo. Although it looks like the same pristine sand you might find on a beach in the Whitsundays, these 275 square miles of surreal dune fields are actually made up of gypsum crystals, a soft sulfate mineral used in everything from plaster to blackboard chalk. Entrance is $5 per adult during regular hours, but you can enter for free after the ranger station has closed. Ten primitive backcountry camping sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis (permit required). Pets are allowed on the dunes but they must be leashed, and use caution bringing them in the afternoon; gypsum burns little paws!

A couple of other tips if you go: (1) The two hours after sunrise and before sunset make for the best photographs. (2) Bring plenty of water and a scarf to cover your face in case it’s windy. (3) Check the @nationalparkservice website before setting off; the Monument sometimes closes due to missile testing at nearby White Sands Missile Range. (4) If you don’t want to get out of the car (for shame!), cruise down the eight-mile scenic Dunes Drive. It’s half pavement, half hard-packed gypsum, no 4WD necessary. (5) Some folks like to purchase a cheap waxed plastic sled from the gift shop and use it to cascade down hills where there is little vegetation. Sandboarding is discouraged, but hey—who’s watching? They’re all busy at Carlsbad.

White Sands National Monument Visitor Center, Dunes Drive off Highway US-70 between Alamogordo and Las Cruces, New Mexico; 575-479-6124.