Colorado is often associated with trees and 14ers, but people often forget that the state's southern section is filled with desertscapes. Great Sand Dunes National Park is known for rolling dunes and larger-than-life sand structures. It isn’t exactly peak-bagging, but you still can get a good workout.

Most visitors will be camping in the Piñon Flats Campground. Open April through October, this 91-site campground has a handful of RV sites but caters primarily to tents. Reservations are required (and highly recommended) and can be made up to six months in advance. Technically, Piñon Flats isn’t the only campground. Besides backcountry spots, there is also high-clearance 4WD camping along the Medano Pass Primitive Road. If you don’t stay in the park, the best camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park is the Oasis Campground or Sangre De Cristo Wilderness near Crestone, CO.