Monahans Sandhills State Park

In Western Texas, Monahans Sandhills State Park offers a dynamic landscape of ever-changing sand dunes that spread around 200 miles, beyond the park’s border into New Mexico. Fresh water may be found in shallow depths in the dunes, and occasionally in shallow ponds between them. 

The region is populated with mule deer, coyotes, foxes, bobcats, wild hogs, opossum, porcupines, jackrabbits, and skunks. Shin oak, a plant in the park that helps stabilize the dunes, stands under four feet tall when fully mature. In addition to observing the spectacular views of rolling sand dunes and catching sight of wildlife at dawn or dusk, visitors to Monahans Sandhills State Park may also camp, hike, picnic, ride their horse, and sand surf.

The park hosts an 800-acre equestrian area free for horseback riding and roaming. There are no marked trails, but there is a trailer parking area and potable water available. There are also sand toboggans and disks available for rental for sand surfing.

Monahans Sandhills State Park is open daily; the gate may be locked after 10 pm during some holidays. Admission costs $4 for adults; children 12 and under are free. The park offers standard campsites with water and electricity, or equestrian sites with water only. Reservations can be made in advance by calling the park office during business hours or through the park’s website.

For your safety and your pet’s, dogs should be kept on a leash no longer than six feet in length at all times. Do not allow your dog to dig, disturb wildlife, or become a nuisance to other park visitors. In Texas state parks, pets are not allowed inside any buildings.

If you go hiking with your dog, always come prepared with plenty of water for both you and your pet. Bring waste bags and be sure to clean up after your pet. If you're in Western Texas and looking for a place to ride your horse or camp with beautiful views and plenty of room to roam, Monahans Sandhills State Park has plenty to offer.