Glamping close to Alamosa, Colorado offers direct access to the San Luis Valley's 7,500-foot elevation desert basin. The region experiences wide temperature fluctuations with summer days reaching 80°F while nights cool to 40°F. During peak season from April through October, visitors contend with afternoon thunderstorms that frequently appear over the valley's mountain-ringed terrain.
What to do
Stargazing at UFO Watchtower: Located 25 miles north of Alamosa in Hooper, this unique attraction provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "Still early in the day but the place is pretty cool. Reasonable prices at $15 to camp or $5 per car for entry. Hoping to see some aliens tonight," notes one UFO Watchtower visitor.
Fishing at Rio Grande: The South Fork area offers productive trout fishing opportunities approximately 45 minutes west of Alamosa. "This area is an anglers dream, reservoirs in every corner of the map with the Rio Grande at your fingertips. Fishing dreams made!" explains a camper at South Fork Campground.
Hiking near Bear Lake: This mountainous area provides excellent trails about 90 minutes southeast of Alamosa. "There's a trail a few yards for the site with a great view! In the very early morning, we did get woken up by a couple hooting owls but it's expected when camping in a forest," reports a visitor to Bear Lake Campground.
What campers like
Quiet camping environments: Many upscale glamping locations near Alamosa offer peaceful settings away from crowds. At the Chicken Ranch, located an hour southwest, campers appreciate the solitude: "They were super responsive to all our questions! It was a beautiful property along the river. Definitely recommend camping here!"
Mountain views: The region's open landscape provides expansive vistas from most camping areas. "Spots right on the river are pure bliss. Full hookups and the sound of the Rio Grande to lull you to sleep. How great is that?" describes a visitor at South Fork Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The rural setting around Alamosa attracts diverse wildlife visitors can observe from camp. "The star gazing is amazing. Neighbor horses came out to join me, too," notes a camper at UFO Watchtower, highlighting the unexpected animal interactions possible in this region.
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: Many glamping sites near Alamosa sit in open terrain with minimal natural shade. "The sites are very simple with a fire ring and a table. There is absolutely no shade and you're essentially in a big dirt parking spot. Don't let that put you off though!" advises a camper at UFO Watchtower.
Site spacing considerations: RV parks and glamping locations vary in their site density. "I read some previous reviews that felt the sites were too close together. Although there was little privacy, we have certainly had less room between sites than we had in Alamosa," reports a visitor at Alamosa KOA.
Weather preparedness: The region's climate demands appropriate clothing and gear. "Cold at night!" warns a UFO Watchtower camper, while another notes: "Wind was howling, but calmed down after dark. A little noise from the road, but not bad."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some glamping facilities offer dedicated play areas for children. "There is also a fantastic playground with updated equipment, including an elevated tunnel system that ends with safety slides. When you have a small child who loves to play, especially a special needs child, this is a big deal!" shares an Alamosa KOA visitor.
Wildlife education opportunities: The open landscape provides excellent wildlife viewing chances for children. At Great Sand Dunes Oasis, located 30 minutes northeast of Alamosa, families appreciate the natural setting: "It was fun being right close to the dunes and creeks. Campfire rings and site were really nice."
Pet-friendly options: Most glamping facilities welcome family pets. "Plenty of spaces when we arrived. Few RV sites that had full hookups and then gravel road to a lot more primitive spots rocky but nice. Great views in the mountains and can see the Great Sand Dunes," notes a camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several glamping facilities near Alamosa offer complete utility connections. "We love it here so much we came back another year. Great RV park everything works as it should. You're spaced out so you're not on top of your neighbors. Everything is well maintained," explains a camper at South Fork Lodge & RV Park.
Level site considerations: RV campers should research site conditions before booking. "Campsite run by the National Forest Service is about two hours drive west of Trinidad Colorado and about 45 minutes from the small town of La Veta. The site is accessed off of scenic highway 12. You drive about 5 miles up a step dirt and gravel road with multiple switchback to reach near lake," advises a Bear Lake Campground visitor.
Seasonal access limitations: Most glamping options close during winter months. "Showers were still closed at the end of May during my stay they're open. There are trash cans as well as clean restrooms. I enjoyed this place so much because of the lack of campers," reports a visitor at Lake Fork Campground.
