PHX to NM January Trip

[timelinex]

I live in Phoenix and we (2 adults, 4 & 2 yr old) are thinking about taking our 381M 5th wheel with SxS to New Mexico for ~10 days or so in January.

The primary places we wanted to see is White Sands and probably Carlsbad park. I know those aren't UTV friendly places but I imagine there is alot of other places around or in NM that are.

My #1 concern is snow. I know white sands gets as low as in the 20s and I don't mind the cold. I know our trailer even has tank heaters so I should be prepared for that. BUT I don't want to pull in the snow.

I would appreciate any feedback on:

1. Can I make it to White sands and Carlsbad without any chance of snow? I THINK the route through Tucson should be good?

2. Can you guys suggest other places to go to in NM that won't have snow? I think Roswell seems like a good spot to explore with the kids and it also seems like it has alot of OHV places for the SxS.

Much appreciated!

Edited September 24, 2022 by timelinex

[LindaH]

Depends on when you want to go.

If you're planning on going within the next few weeks, your chance of snow is pretty low. If you're planning on going in December or January, your chance of snow increases.

Edited September 24, 2022 by LindaH

[timelinex]

7 minutes ago, LindaH said:

Depends on when you want to go.

If you're planning on going within the next few weeks, your chance of snow is pretty low. If you're planning on going in December or January, your chance of snow increases.

Our plans are for January!

[Second Chance]

If you stay in southern NM (which both of the places you mention are), the chances of snow any time of the year are very low, especially at the lower elevations - but it can still get cold. We had 15 deg. temps in Las Cruces (about an hour from White Sands) in February last year.

You cannot use your UTVs/ATVs anywhere in those to parks, though. If you search for BLM land and access you'll find places you can go. 

Rob

Edited September 24, 2022 by Second Chance
Fix typo

[2gypsies]

I wouldn't recommend a 2 and 4 yr old to enjoy the places you're thinking of visiting.... especially in winter.  Yes, you could get snow at that time but more importantly, cold and bitter winds.  We had plans to stay in NM a winter when we first began full-timing.  We were in the southern part and it didn't take long to head over to Arizona.

You might want to consider the Benson area of Arizona along with Tucson.  There is Kartchner Caverns which the children would enjoy more than Carlsbad.  Lots of beautiful lighting and dripping sounds from the constantly growing formations. Carlsbad is nothing like that.  There are many places to ride in that area.  The days are pleasant but it will be cold at night but not as bitter as NM.  Kartchner State Park is very nice as a base.

Nearby Tucson has so many wonderful things that the children would enjoy and it would be warmer.  

https://familydestinationsguide.com/fun-things-to-do-in-tucson-with-kids/

[Kirk W]

7 hours ago, timelinex said:

New Mexico for ~10 days or so in January.

While snow isn't common in those areas, cold is and snow does happen and can be nasty. If you watch the weather forcast you can probably avoid it, but like others have said I think that you & the children would enjoy more visits to warmer places. I think that 2gypsies made some good suggestions.