03/11/2012

Yesterday we visited the Saguaro National Park just outside of Tucson in the Sonoran Desert.  We were surprised to find that these cactuses aren't found in all of Arizona, since most of us think of them as an "Arizona" plant.  Interesting tidbit:  they don't grow any arms until they're at least 75 years old! Anyway, it was an interesting trip. 


This morning we headed for Alamagordo, AZ.  It's the home of the White Sands Missle Range and White Sands National Park, and Holoman AFB is nearby.  We got a later start than usual, since we forgot that NM set their clocks ahead (AZ doesn't - sometimes I just can't keep up).  We also wanted to take advantage of the DIY RV wash, so that set us back.  But that's OK, it was a good, though kind of long and boring day on the road. The southwest can be a beautiful part of the country, but when there is nothing but desert around - no hills, mountains, or anything, well, it's not terribly exciting.

We arrived in Alamagordo about 5pm, and got to see just a bit of the White Sands NP, so we're looking forward to spending some time there tomorrow.  We found a great campground called "Boot Hill".   Really nice people and plenty of open spaces, so we'll probably stay another night before heading on to Carlsbad Caverns.

A pair of yellow and red cowboy boots welcomed us at the campground entrance!
 

The beatiful view in the background is Mule Peak - lots of snow on top.