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The nearly 4,000 acres of sand dunes that undulate through Monahans Sandhills State Park are just a fraction of a sandhills region that extends about 200 miles.
Resembling the dunes of the Sahara Desert, and sometimes reaching 70-foot heights, the sandhills stymied westward-bound pioneers. But local Native Americans often camped among them, realizing that in many spots fresh water lay just inches beneath the sand.
Just getting around on the sand is part of the fun at Monahans Sandhills State Park. Sand surfing is popular in some areas.
But the fragility of the dunes means that most wheeled vehicles, including bikes, are barred. Many of the hills are dynamic, changing shape in response to wind and weather. Others are stabilized by vegetation including shinoaks — tiny oak trees — whose roots often sink 90 feet.
From the park's interpretive center, visitors can view birds as they visit a watering station. A quiet vigil near open water between dunes can also reward wildlife watchers. The park's birds include cactus wrens and the cardinal-like pyrrhuloxia. Mule deer and wild hogs are among mammalian residents.
There is a short nature trail, but hikers generally just strike off across the sand. A windmill provides a reference point. Equestrians have the use of a 600-acre tract.
The park has 24 campsites, all with water and electricity. There is a trailer dump station. A railroad section house built in 1903 is rented for group parties. The visitor center houses administrative offices and a Texas State Park Store.
An oil well stands as a reminder of the region's petroleum-producing history.
The park is about 30 miles west of Odessa. Take Interstate 20 to Mile Marker 86 and follow Park Road 41.
Outdoor Activities |
Kids enjoy a sandy frolic in the vast dunes of Monahans Sandhills State Park.
The visitor center at Monahans Sandhills looks out over a vast desert terrain.
Visitors to Monahans are dwarfed by the dunes, some of which rise up 70 feet.
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