Best Campgrounds near Alamosa, CO

Camping near Alamosa, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking to hike, stargaze, or just relax by a campfire, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking the Dunes: Explore the trails leading to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. One camper mentioned, “From the campground you can easily hike up to the creek and the east face of the dunes within 15-30 minutes.” This makes it a perfect spot for those who love to hike and enjoy breathtaking views.

• Visit Zapata Falls: A short hike leads you to the beautiful Zapata Falls. A reviewer said, “The hike to the falls is short and worth it,” making it a great family-friendly activity.

• Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies. One camper noted, “You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking.” This is a must-do for anyone who loves to gaze at the stars.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and clean campsites. A review for Pinon Flats Campground highlighted, “Busy campground with clean toilets. Well maintained and clean camping spots.”
• Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and dunes. A visitor at Zapata Falls Campground remarked, “It is a beautiful campground… Some sites provide shade and some do not, so be prepared.”
• Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the friendly vibe. One reviewer at Pagosa Riverside Campground said, “The hosts were the kindest people… I was treated with ‘We’re glad to have you, thank you for coming to stay.’”

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the summer 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, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor noted, “There are no frills at Zapata Falls—no hook-ups, no hosts, and only vault toilets.”
• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned, “We booked here last minute on a holiday weekend and we were thankful they had a spot for us!”

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables and clean restrooms. A parent at Pagosa Riverside Campground said, “The campgrounds are beautiful, scenic, and peaceful.”
• Plan for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor activities. One reviewer at Sand Dunes Recreation noted, “You come here for the pool… There are also cabins and a lodge for your non-camping guests.”
• Pack for Comfort: Make sure to bring extra blankets and bug spray. A camper 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: Some sites may be tight for larger RVs. A reviewer at Piñon Campground said, “Unfortunately my site was not as level as the others so I had to do some maneuvers to level my camper.”
• Use Online Reservations: Many campgrounds require online reservations. A camper at East Fork Campground noted, “You have to reserve online now in advance.”
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss out on local attractions. One RV traveler at Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned, “The property was well-maintained and clean… about 4 miles from the park entrance.”

Camping near Alamosa, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.