On the east side of El Paso, the desert rises into a field of rippled, rust-colored dunes that locals call Red Sands. At sunset the sand turns warm and glowing, the Franklin Mountains sit on the horizon, and the whole place feels far from the city even though it is only minutes from it. Red Sands El Paso is a favorite for engagement sessions, senior portraits and anyone who wants a dramatic desert backdrop without a long drive. This guide covers when to go, what to wear, how to stay safe and comfortable, and other romantic places in El Paso, Texas to pair with it.
Red Sands El Paso TX, at a glance
Red Sands is a dune area east of the city, generally reached from the Montana Avenue side of town. It is popular with off-road riders as well as photographers, so expect to share the space, especially on weekends. The sand has a reddish tint compared with the bright white gypsum dunes farther north, which gives photos a warm, almost Saharan look.
Red Sands vs. White Sands: clearing up the confusion
People often search for "red sands New Mexico," but Red Sands is in Texas. The confusion comes from White Sands National Park, which is a separate and much larger gypsum dune field in southern New Mexico, about a couple of hours' drive from El Paso.
| Red Sands | White Sands National Park | |
|---|---|---|
| State | Texas (east El Paso) | New Mexico |
| Sand color | Warm red, tan and orange | Brilliant white gypsum |
| Drive from central El Paso | Short | A longer day trip |
| Feel in photos | Warm, earthy, golden | Bright, airy, almost snowy |
| Rules | Check current local access | National park rules, fees and photography permits for commercial work |
Both are beautiful; they just give very different moods. Our El Paso engagement photo locations guide compares these and other spots in more detail.
When to go
Time of day
The hour before sunset is the classic choice. Low sun rakes across the ripples, adding texture and depth, and the sand glows warmer. Sunrise works too and is usually quieter, with cooler sand underfoot. Midday light is flat and harsh here, and the sand reflects heat, so avoid it if you can. Use our golden hour guide to time your session to your date.
Season
Fall, winter and early spring are the most comfortable. Spring in El Paso can bring strong wind, which looks dramatic in photos but means sand in your eyes, hair and camera. Summer sessions are possible, but plan for the very end of the day and bring plenty of water.
What to wear on the dunes
The warm red and tan of the sand sets the palette. Colors that look especially good here:
- Cream, ivory and soft white, which glow against the warm sand
- Dusty blue, sage and olive, which contrast gently with the reds
- Rust, terracotta and mustard, if you want a tonal, earthy look
- Black, for a bold, editorial feel at sunset
Flowing dresses and skirts catch the breeze beautifully. Avoid bright neon and busy prints, which compete with the landscape. For shoes, many people walk in wearing sneakers or sandals and go barefoot for the photos; just test the sand temperature first. See our full guide on what to wear for engagement photos for more palette ideas.
Posing and composition ideas
- Walk the ridgeline. A couple walking along a dune crest against the sky is the signature shot. Walk slowly, and let the photographer shoot from below.
- Use the ripples. Wind lines in the sand make strong leading lines. Avoid stepping on the area you want in the foreground until the photo is taken.
- Go wide. Small figures in a vast field of sand tell a story about scale and solitude.
- Sit and lean in. Sitting on a slope gives relaxed, intimate frames and a rest from walking in sand.
- Silhouettes. Right after the sun drops, put the bright sky behind you for a clean outline.
Working with your photographer
If you are hiring a photographer for a Red Sands El Paso session, ask whether they have shot on sand before and how they plan to handle the walk in, wind and fading light. Agree on a meeting point that is easy to find, since the dunes all start to look alike. Plan the session to start about an hour before sunset and run into the first part of twilight, when the sky often turns pink and lavender over the mountains. A second location, close by, gives the gallery variety without eating the best light.
Safety and comfort
Dunes are beautiful but they ask for a little preparation.
- Bring water, even for a short evening session
- Pack a small towel or blanket and wipes for sandy feet
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp for the walk back after sunset
- Watch for off-road vehicles and stay visible near riding areas
- Park on firm ground; soft sand can trap regular cars
- Protect camera gear from blowing sand with a bag and lens cloth
- Leave no trash, including flower petals and props
- Let someone know where you are going if you visit alone
Other romantic places in El Paso, Texas
Red Sands pairs well with a second location for variety. A few El Paso favorites for couples:
- Scenic Drive. A road along the Franklin Mountains with wide views over the city and into Mexico, best at sunset and after dark.
- Franklin Mountains State Park. Rugged desert trails and rock; check park fees, hours and any rules for photography.
- Downtown El Paso. Historic buildings, murals and plazas, especially lovely during the winter holiday lights. Our downtown El Paso Christmas lights guide covers the season.
- Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site. Striking rock formations east of the city; access is managed and often requires reservations, so plan ahead.
Making the most of it
The best Red Sands El Paso sessions feel unhurried. Give yourself time to walk in, find a quiet stretch of untouched sand and settle in before the light turns golden. Bring a change of outfit if you want two looks, and something warm for winter evenings, which cool off fast once the sun is down. For more ideas around the city and beyond, browse our portraits journal.
Questions, answered
Is Red Sands in New Mexico?
No. Red Sands is on the east side of El Paso, Texas. It is often confused with White Sands National Park, which is a separate gypsum dune field in southern New Mexico, roughly a couple of hours' drive north.
When is the best time to take photos at Red Sands?
The hour before sunset is the favorite, when low light brings out the color and ripples in the sand. Fall, winter and spring are the most comfortable seasons; summer evenings can still be very hot.
Do you need a permit to photograph at Red Sands?
Access rules and land management in the area can change, and professional sessions may be treated differently from casual visits. Check current rules before planning a paid shoot or a large group.
Can you drive a regular car to Red Sands?
Many visitors park near the edge of the dunes and walk in, but soft sand can trap vehicles that are not built for it. Stay on firm ground unless you have a suitable vehicle and experience driving in sand.
First published in Nov 2018 and fully rewritten and updated for 2026. Details like permits, fees and hours change — confirm them with the venue or land manager before you go.
