First Supermoon of 2023 Will Shine Bright at July’s White Sands Full Moon Nights

With the new school year just weeks away, those looking to get out of El Paso for a last-minute summer adventure are running out of time.

If you’re short on time or money consider a day trip or an overnighter to White Sands National Park on its monthly "Full Moon Nights" night. July's will feature an unobstructed view of the first Super Moon of 2023.

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What’s a Full Moon Night?

Park closing times are extended on Full Moon Nights by several hours giving park-goers a different perspective of the national monument and its wildlife.

The entire dunes area remains open so you can still play in the gypsum sand when the sun isn’t at peak skin-melting degrees. And you can experience a beautiful sunset, see the moon rise, and chill under the magical glow of the full moon.

See the Super Moon

July's full moon, which will occur on Monday, July 3, is called the Buck Moon. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, it's called the Buck Moon because the antlers of male deer (bucks) are in full-growth mode at this time.

It will be the first of four supermoons in 2023 and because it's a supermoon will appear bigger than a regular full moon. White Sands would definitely be a great place to get a clear view of the brighter, bigger-looking full moon.

July 2023 Full Moon Nights

July's Full Moon Nights night is on Monday, July 3. Park hours that day will be 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Get there a couple of hours before sunset and go sledding down a dune, take a few selfies for The 'Gram, and sit and watch one of the more glorious sunsets you’ll ever see.

Entrance Fee

White Sands normal park entrance fees apply. No advanced reservations or tickets are required.

How to Get There

White Sands National Monument, located southwest of Alamogordo off U.S. Hwy. 70, is about a 90-minute drive from El Paso.