Lake Lucero is a dry lake bed located in White Sands National Park in New Mexico. It lies in the southwest corner of an area known as the Alkali Flat, between the white sand dunes and the San Andres Mountains. The lake only fills with water after heavy rains or snowmelt.

Access to Lake Lucero is restricted. Visitors can only view the lake on ranger-led tours offered once a month from November through March. Tours begin 25 miles southwest of the park at the Small Missile Range Gate on Highway 70. Participants caravan 17.5 miles to the trailhead in their own vehicles.

The hike to Lake Lucero is 1.5 miles round trip over rough desert terrain and washes. It is rated as moderate difficulty, with loose soil and uneven terrain. The trail slopes gradually downhill toward the lake, with a gentle uphill return. Closed-toe shoes are required. The trail is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Lake Lucero is considered the birthplace of the white sand dunes. After rains, water settles in the 10 square mile lake bed. Beneath the surface, selenite crystals form in the mud. Wind and erosion break down these crystals into the gypsum sand that forms the dunes. Visitors can see exposed selenite crystals in gullies along the trail.

Safety is a major consideration when visiting Lake Lucero. The remote location has no services and poor cell reception. Participants must bring at least 1 gallon of water per person. Long sleeves and pants are recommended for sun protection. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F. Emergency medical response is delayed in this area.

Wildlife and natural features of interest include the selenite crystal formations and the geological processes that create the white sand dunes. The lake offers expansive views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Reservations are required for Lake Lucero tours and must be made through Recreation.gov. There is a fee of $8 for adults and $4 for children. Tours are limited to 50 people. Only one vehicle per reservation is allowed due to limited parking. Pets are permitted if leashed. Photography is prohibited on missile range property but allowed once at the lake.

Lake Lucero has significant geological importance as the source of the white sand dunes. It is a remnant of the much larger ancient Lake Otero that existed during the last ice age, 12,000-24,000 years ago. The lake demonstrates ongoing geological processes that continue to form the unique gypsum dune field of White Sands National Park.