Monahans Sandhills State Park Texas consists of 3,840 acres of sand dunes, some as high as 70 feet, in Ward and Winkler counties, about a half-hour drive west of Odessa. The park is only a small portion of the dune field that stretches about 200 miles from south Monahans west and north to New Mexico. Most of these dunes are anchored by vegetation, but the park is one area where many sand dunes are still active. Active sand dunes grow and change shape in response to the prevailing monsoon winds. Activities include camping. Hiking; a picnic. horse riding; observe birds and wildlife from the center’s interpretive windows overlooking the watering stations; Surfing on the sand.
Things to do in Monahans Sandhills State Park Texas
Go for a walk and spend the day exploring on foot or on horseback. Hire sand discs and surf the sand dunes. Learn about the park and its natural and cultural history at the Donagan Visitor Center. Set up camp and watch the gorgeous sunset. Rent our group room and suite for your next group event.
Explore the sand dunes
The Monahans Sandhills State Park Texas does not have designated paths – you can explore them freely at will. Watch out for the countless creatures, plants, and wildflowers that thrive in a seemingly inhospitable place.
Hire sand discs at Headquarters and slide and shoot sand dunes (for kids of all ages).
Practice safety while hiking. The dunes heat up quickly during the summer months. Be aware of your surroundings, so you can go back to the starting point.
Get to know the garden
Learn about this area, its flora, fauna, and human history at the Donagan Visitor Center. Stop by the large windows overlooking the wildlife area – you never know which bird or animal will get a drink or a snack.
ride your horse
Bring your horse and explore this 800-acre equestrian area, which has no marked trails. Expect heavy brush sand and some mesquite trees.
Other equestrian facilities include a trailer parking area, drinking water, and three camping sites Monahans Sandhills State Park Texas.
Monahans Sandhills State Park camping
Book at one of the 26 water and electric camping sites. Each site has a shaded shelter.
Participate
We need your help! Find out what you can do by asking at the headquarters or visiting our volunteer page.
Support state parks by making a donation to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.
Ranger software
Check our events page for upcoming programs.
Kids
Be a little ranger!
- Borrow an explorer pack loaded with tools to explore the park.
- Get a free diary of the activities of the little guard. Complete missions to earn a badge.
Tourist attractions
The park is sandwiched between three cities in West Texas, all of which offer restaurants, shopping, museums, and more.
- Monahans (8 miles)
- Odessa (31 miles)
- Midland (55 miles)
Entrance Fees
- Adults: $4 per day
- Child 12 years and under: Free
monahans sandhills state park hours
- open daily
- The gate is closed from 10 pm. – 7 am
We often reach capacity; Reservations are highly recommended for both camping and daily use. To ensure that the entry reservation passes online, or by calling the Customer Service Centre, prior to the visit.
Busy Season
March to August
Weather
The average January low is 29 degrees. The average maximum temperature in July is 96 degrees. Average precipitation is 12.3 inches.
The National Weather Service forecast for this area>
Height
2,724.67 ft
Nearby state parks, historical sites, and natural state areas
- Balmorhea State Park
- Big Spring State Park
The average January low is 29 degrees. The average maximum temperature in July is 96 degrees. Average precipitation is 12.3 inches.
The average January low is 29 degrees. The average maximum temperature in July is 96 degrees. Average precipitation is 12.3 inches.
Book at one of the 26 water and electric camping sites. Each site has a shaded shelter.
open daily
The gate is closed from 10 pm. – 7 am