Alamosa sits at 7,544 feet elevation in Colorado's San Luis Valley, where summer temperatures reach the 80s but can drop to the 30s at night. The Rio Grande flows through this region, creating opportunities for fishing and water recreation near several campgrounds. Winter camping options are limited due to high-altitude conditions that bring significant snowfall from November through March.
What to do
Fishing along the Rio Grande: Woods & River RV Park offers direct river access with tent sites along a bend in the river. "Watch a skyful of stars and then fall asleep to the sound of the river," notes one camper at Woods & River RV Park.
Hot springs soaking: At Sand Dunes Recreation in Hooper, camping includes discounted access to artesian hot springs pools. "They have a shop that sells items needed like bathing suits and sunscreen and treats and they also rent out toys and such," reports a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
Mountain exploration: The area serves as a gateway to mountain recreation. A camper at South Fork Lodge & RV Park mentions "They also have great trails close that you can drive to via atv or ohv's. Wonderful views all around from our campsites!"
Sand board rentals: Near Great Sand Dunes National Park, equipment rentals make dune activities accessible. "Sand boards are available to hire," notes a camper who visited Sand Dunes Recreation in late June.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise well-maintained restrooms. "The bathrooms and laundry room are renovated (and they do not run out of hot water)," notes one visitor at Woods & River RV Park, while another at Circle the Wagons RV Park observed "The facilities were exceptionally clean — especially the bathrooms and showers, which were spotless."
Helpful staff: Many reviews highlight exceptional service. "Megan the owner was very helpful, friendly and attentive," says a camper who spent 10 days at Ute Bluff Lodge. Another visitor at Cool Sunshine RV Park appreciated that "They said sorry for our delay but gave us our spot no# C15, gate code to open gate. Had our welcome packet taped to office door with all others info about park."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several rv parks near Alamosa offer features for children. "Kids can ride bikes around the property. There is a basketball hoop and tether ball," reports a regular visitor at Chinook Cabins & RV Park. Another mentions that Cool Sunshine RV Park has "some game called GA-GA pit. Like Dodge ball, but all in circle. Small finced dog park."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Railroad proximity affects some camping experiences. A camper at Cool Sunshine RV Park noted "Nice people, nice place, very clean. Only issues are the active train tracks right next to the park and the narrow spaces."
Water temperature quirks: Some campgrounds tap into geothermal sources. "One funny thing is if you have an rv and hook up to the water, it is fed from the hot springs so the water is always very warm. Didn't get to test out our hot water heater at this location!" explained a camper at Sand Dunes Recreation.
Connectivity varies: Internet and cell service fluctuate throughout the region. At Grandview Cabins and RV, a visitor reported "Internet is not great. ATT Cell phone coverage sporadic," while another at Ute Bluff Lodge mentioned it "Has great cell with verizon and onsite WiFi."
Space considerations: Site sizes differ significantly between parks. "We stayed at Site 5, which was probably the largest site we visited all week. Although we only brought two vehicles, the space easily could have accommodated three or four," reported a visitor at Circle the Wagons RV Park, contrasting with tighter arrangements at other locations.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Multiple campgrounds offer built-in entertainment. "There is a basketball court, coin operated showers and laundry, water hook ups, and electric hookups," lists a visitor at Sand Dunes Recreation, while another mentions "Fun kids area with playground and treehouse with zip line" at Woods & River RV Park.
Budget-friendly pool access: Families appreciate combined camping and swimming deals. "Camping is 20 bucks a night and you get half off camping when you camp here," explains a regular visitor to Sand Dunes Recreation, who adds "We get a weekend away for about 80 bucks for two nights and swimming, and we can bring our kids and dog."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance family camping experiences. "We spotted plenty of deer and horses nearby," reports a Circle the Wagons RV Park visitor, while another at Grandview Cabins and RV mentioned "RV park is well maintained with big areas for dogs to play."
Tips from RVers
Easy self-check-in options: Several Alamosa RV parks accommodate late arrivals. Cool Sunshine RV Park offers a streamlined process where "checking in was made quite dummy proof," according to one RVer who appreciated the convenience.
Laundry availability: On-site laundry facilities matter during extended stays. A visitor at Cool Sunshine RV Park noted "Laundry room in main building where check in with two washers," which can be crucial for longer trips.
Site configurations: Pull-through accessibility varies between locations. "There are pull through down center of park," explains a Cool Sunshine RV Park camper, while another at Grandview Cabins and RV mentioned "RV park is extremely quiet and pet friendly."
Extended stay options: Weekly rates provide savings for longer visits. "It's $30 per night or $199 a week," reports a visitor to Blanca RV Park who stayed for two days.
