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Camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve

778 Reviews

Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado lets you camp among massive sand dunes and diverse landscapes. Pinon Flats Campground inside the park puts you close to the dunes with good facilities for most campers. If you want fewer people around, Zapata Falls Campground is nearby and gives you access to a cool waterfall. Spring and fall are the best months to visit since summer gets too hot for comfort. You'll need permits if you plan to camp in the backcountry areas of the park. Check on current fire rules before your trip, as restrictions are common throughout the year. Since the park is far from towns, bring all your food, water and gear with you. Wind can be strong in this area, and the temperature drops dramatically at night compared to daytime. Always look up current weather and park notices before heading out to make your trip go smoothly.

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Best Camping Sites Near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve (149)

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778 Reviews of 149 Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve Campgrounds

Guide to Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve

Camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, stargaze, or just relax, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking to the Dunes: Many campers enjoy hiking up to the Great Sand Dunes. From Pinon Flats Campground, you can easily hike to the creek and the east face of the dunes in just 15-30 minutes. One reviewer mentioned, "From the campground, you can easily hike up to the creek and the east face of the dunes."
  • Exploring Zapata Falls: A short hike leads to the beautiful Zapata Falls, which is a must-see. One visitor said, "The hike to the falls is short and worth it."
  • Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies, making it perfect for stargazing. A camper at Zapata Falls Campground noted, "You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views from various campgrounds. One happy camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis said, "The location can’t be beat! Views are incredible!"
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Pinon Flats Campground, are well-maintained with clean restrooms. A reviewer mentioned, "Busy campground with clean toilets. Well maintained and clean camping spots."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the friendly vibe at the campgrounds. A visitor at Rabbit Hole Ranch shared, "Everyone was super friendly!"

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. A camper at Pinon Flats Campground warned, "In July, there were a ton of mosquitoes everywhere except over the sand."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Zapata Falls Campground, have basic facilities. One reviewer noted, "No running water, only vault toilets."
  • Tight Campsites: Some sites can be close together, so be mindful of noise. A camper at UFO Watchtower mentioned, "The campsites are extremely close, so be very considerate with noise!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. Great Sand Dunes Oasis has a restaurant and store on-site, making it convenient for families.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. A camper at Sand Dunes Recreation said, "Great restaurant and bar at the pool area."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and bug spray to keep everyone comfortable. A visitor at Mosca Campground mentioned, "The bugs were awful and with free electricity we could hide in our camper with AC."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Alamosa KOA advised, "Some highway noise, worth it to reserve a 'view site' because they’re farthest from the road."
  • Use Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Sand Dunes Recreation offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One camper said, "Showers and laundry available."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some RV sites can be close together. A visitor at Great Sand Dunes Oasis noted, "The sites were so closely spaced that there was no room for a picnic table or outdoor seating."

Camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just be prepared for the unique challenges and joys that come with it!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve offers a wide range of camping options, with 149 campgrounds and RV parks near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve and 39 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve is Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park with a 4.4-star rating from 89 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 39 free dispersed camping spots near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve.

  • What parks are near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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