Taking an electric vehicle (EV) on a journey to America’s renowned national parks has become increasingly feasible. Places like the Grand Canyon’s South Rim and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are well-equipped with charging options, making them accessible to EV travelers. However, as adventurers venture off the beaten path to explore lesser-known national monuments and state parks, they may encounter challenges. Traditional fueling stations become scarce, and planning an EV road trip to these remote destinations requires forethought, often involving portable chargers or strategizing around sparse RV hookups. Yet, the narrative is changing. The advent of more charging stations is gradually unlocking America’s natural and state treasures for EV owners.
White Sands National Park Welcomes EV Travelers with New Charging Options
Nestled just a few miles from the enchanting dunes of White Sands National Park is Alamogordo, New Mexico. For visitors to the park, Alamogordo often serves as a base due to the absence of developed campgrounds within White Sands itself. Until recently, the only EV charging station in the area was limited to a single stall at a local dealership, restricting accessibility with its not-so-friendly hours. However, EV accessibility has just taken a leap forward with the unveiling of a two-stall, 125 kW charging station at an Allsups convenience store—operational round the clock and conveniently situated on the route to the park.
For Tesla drivers anticipating the arrival of a Supercharger, there’s promising news on the horizon. Leaked state documents reveal plans for Tesla to establish a Magic Dock station in Alamogordo, signifying an impending boom in charging infrastructure for visitors heading to White Sands.
Pancho Villa State Park’s Historical Significance and Enhanced EV Facilities
Delving into history, Pancho Villa State Park stands as a testament to a pivotal episode in U.S.-Mexico relations. The 1916 raid by Pancho Villa as a retaliatory act not only sparked a pursuit by U.S. forces but also served as a crucial prelude to the American military’s engagement in World War I. Overseeing the punitive expedition, General John “Black Jack” Pershing, garnered invaluable experience that later contributed to success in the Great War, elevating him to the prestigious rank of General of the Armies.
In commemoration of this historic battlefield, New Mexico established the state park, which today offers visitors a glimpse into the past with exhibits, an indoor museum, and antiquities of military significance. For EV adventurers looking to roam along Highway 9 or venture into Mexico, the introduction of a new ChargePoint station close to the state park ensures a much-needed power boost.
The station may currently be operating with limitations, offering only 10 kWh per charge, but once fully functional, it will enable EV travelers to traverse the scenic road with the confidence of available charging. The station’s presence not only supports local and cross-border excursions but also invites stargazers to relish the unparalleled clarity of the Milky Way, thanks to the region’s minimal light pollution.
In summary, the advent of new charging stations near these natural landmarks in New Mexico is a significant stride in expanding the frontiers for EV tourism, making it easier and more convenient for EV owners to experience the beauty and history these parks offer.
