Best Campgrounds near Antonito, CO

Camping near Antonito, Colorado, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to hike, stargaze, or just relax by a campfire, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

• Hiking the Dunes: Explore the Great Sand Dunes National Park, where you can hike up to the dunes and enjoy breathtaking views. 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” at Pinon Flats Campground.
• Visit Zapata Falls: A short hike leads to the stunning Zapata Falls, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature. One visitor said, “The hike to the falls is short and worth it,” highlighting the accessibility of this beautiful spot at Zapata Falls Campground.
• Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies, making it perfect for stargazing. A reviewer at Pinon Flats Campground noted, “You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark…simply breathtaking.”

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and clean campsites. One camper at Zapata Falls Campground said, “My site was great, so clean with a breathtaking view, clean bathrooms close by.”
• Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. A visitor at East Fork Campground remarked, “The whole area is treed with TALL lodgepole pines…absolutely stunning.”
• Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One reviewer at Pagosa Riverside Campground shared, “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, so plan accordingly.
• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Great Sand Dunes Oasis noted, “You do have to reserve online now in advance.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. One family at Pagosa Riverside Campground enjoyed the “riverside benches to sit and enjoy the surroundings.”
• Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A camper at Sand Dunes Recreation mentioned, “There are also cabins and a lodge for your non-camping guests.”
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis appreciated the “store and restaurant on property.”

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Taos Valley RV Park mentioned, “The owner is very hospitable and made sure we got into the best spot for our trailer.”
• Use Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for a more comfortable stay. One camper at Pagosa Riverside Campground noted, “The amenities were plentiful with 24/7 laundry room, showers, bathrooms, hookups.”
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. A visitor at Sand Dunes Recreation mentioned, “Tent sites were very close together but no one was next to us.”

Camping near Antonito, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique aspects of each campground!