Glamping near Antonito, Colorado offers a range of accommodations in the San Luis Valley, where elevations reach 7,900 feet and temperatures fluctuate dramatically between seasons. Summer nights remain cool even when days are warm, often dropping 30-40 degrees after sunset. Most glamping facilities in this area operate seasonally, typically closing during the winter months when snowfall makes access challenging.
What to do
Fishing at Conejos River: Ponderosa Campground provides direct river access for anglers seeking trout. "The camp host is very friendly, and knows the best fishing holes," notes Marc C., who stayed at Ponderosa Campground in July 2023.
Hiking on nearby trails: The Continental Divide Trail offers extensive hiking opportunities with minimal crowds. At Cebolla Mesa Campground, "There's a 1.25 mile hike down to the river to cool down. Plenty of shade and lots of off road trails for driving/running/biking," according to Toni K.
Stargazing after dark: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional conditions for viewing night skies. "Great for stargazing!" notes Mike V. about his stay at Alamosa KOA, which provides a convenient base for astronomical observation.
What campers like
Riverside settings: Many visitors appreciate camping sites positioned directly along waterways. Michael M. from Ponderosa Campground shares, "This is a very relaxing place to stay and it seems like most of the people there have been there many times before. The drive in is easy on Route 17 and does not require a vehicle with high ground clearance."
Wilderness access: The proximity to undeveloped natural areas ranks high among visitor preferences. At Cebolla Mesa, James H. describes "Beautiful dispersed camp spots on the Rio grande. 10-12 spots with reasonable space in between and views of the canyon. Facing west for amazing sunsets."
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers highlight the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The vault toilets were probably the nicest I've been too. They were clean and didn't smell at all," notes Abigail R. about her camping experience at Great Sand Dunes Oasis.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping operations close during winter months due to harsh conditions. Robert E. notes about Columbine Campground: "We had a blast staying here... Water from hydrants only, no connections, no dump, and they clean vault toilets."
Insect challenges: Depending on timing, biting insects can impact your stay. "Would be 5 stars, except....Deer flies!!! Stunning spot, lots of tent sites... unknown if it's seasonal but the biting flies, primarily deer flies are beyond bearable," warns Marc C. about summer visits to Ponderosa.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Cebolla Mesa, Abby M. reports "1-2 bars LTE AT&T service available near bathroom but gets worse the further you go away from it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Some campgrounds offer play structures for children. At Alamosa KOA, Kari T. found "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!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area hosts abundant small animals that children enjoy spotting. Derek E. humorously notes about Alamosa KOA, "Oh, and bring your Elmer Fudd accent. This place is overrun with rabbits. Not a bad animal as far as infestations go."
Educational opportunities: Several locations provide learning experiences about local ecology and history. "The host was knowledgeable of area and things to do. Red Lake hike was awesome and easy," explains Liberty M. from The Chicken Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. At Columbine Campground, Robert E. advises: "Some sites are short, very few are level, some have a steep slope... The loop to the left side near the host is more level and can handle bigger RVs but overall this is not a big rig campground."
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites are uncommon in this region. Myndi C. from Great Sand Dunes Oasis shares: "We stayed in the RV lot for 1 night... Lots are close together. Super close to the dunes - you get a great view of them from the campground."
Elevation considerations: The high altitude affects vehicle performance and camping comfort. At Alamosa KOA, Eric B. notes the facilities have "Trash pick up, firewood delivery, picnic tables and fire rings at every site. There is a well stocked store with ice, propane, firewood etc."
