RV camping near Crestone is popular throughout the San Luis Valley, with altitudes averaging 7,500-8,000 feet causing significant temperature drops at night. The area sits at the western base of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range and experiences a semi-arid climate with limited rainfall, affecting campground availability and conditions. Campgrounds in this region generally have fewer trees for shade compared to other Colorado camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Woods & River RV Park features easy access to the Rio Grande River with excellent trout fishing. "The fishing was awesome. The Rio Grande flows by and so do the trout. When we were there, fishing was free every 1st weekend of the month," notes one camper who found success casting from the river's edge.
Hot springs access: Natural hot springs offer a relaxing activity after exploring the mountains. "The pools are artesian hot springs. The pools are extremely kid friendly, and there are greenhouses with 21+ soaking and bar," reports a visitor to Sand Dunes Recreation, where camping guests receive discounted admission to the pools.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the Crestone area provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. One camper at Haggards RV Campground shared, "So neat to see pronghorn in nearby fields as we sat drinking coffee." Other campers have reported spotting bighorn sheep on the cliffs near campsites.
What campers like
River soundscapes: Sites near water features are particularly popular in the valley. At Woods & River RV Park, campers appreciate "a perfectly private front yard with a view" of the creek. Another reviewer at Bighorn Park enjoyed "Slept with the back open and fell asleep to the river sounds. Just heavenly!"
Mountain views: The panoramic mountain vistas earn consistent praise from reviewers. At Sangre Vista RV Sites, the small campground provides unobstructed views of the Sangre de Cristo range. Though lacking facilities like showers or toilets, the mountain scenery compensates for the basic amenities.
Clean facilities: Many travelers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and showers at established campgrounds. One camper at Royal Gorge RV Resort & Cabins noted, "The newly remodeled bathhouse and laundry facilities are beautiful!" While another at Monarch Spur RV Park mentioned, "Restrooms/showers/laundry very clean & well-kept."
What you should know
Water quality variations: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water systems that campers should be aware of. "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!" reported a visitor at Sand Dunes Recreation.
Train noise: Several campgrounds near railroad tracks experience periodic noise disruption. A camper at Cool Sunshine RV Park warned, "Only issues are the active train tracks right next to the park and the narrow spaces," while another mentioned, "The train whistle is deafening and will rattle your teeth. 5 trains came by the one night."
Altitude considerations: The high elevation affects weather patterns and visitor comfort. A review of Monarch Spur RV Park noted, "High altitude means cool to cold nights," with temperatures often dropping below 50°F even in summer months. Proper cold-weather gear is essential year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with specific features for children. Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground offers "a playground, kids games, a community area (even host occasional concerts) fishing, and a river running through." One family mentioned, "The kids didn't want to go anywhere they were happy just to hang out here at the campground."
Tent camping options: Families seeking more affordable options can find tent sites at several RV parks. "We had a great tent spot up on the hill with a great view of the valley behind. So it was a quiet tent spot to ourself, but 30 seconds down the hill for access to the amazing restroom and showers!" reported a family at Royal Gorge RV Resort & Cabins.
Rental equipment: Some parks offer equipment rentals that save families from bringing extra gear. A visitor to Sand Dunes Recreation noted, "They have a shop that sells items needed like bathing suits and sunscreen and treats and they also rent out toys and such." Another mentioned, "Sand boards are available to hire" for trips to nearby dunes.
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Some RV parks have difficult approach roads requiring preparation. One RVer cautioned about Wilderness Expeditions RV Park, "Navigation to certain parks requires careful planning," while another advised taking it slow on gravel entrance roads common throughout the region.
Site layout considerations: The orientation and size of sites impact RV parking and comfort. At Cool Sunshine RV Park, "Back in spaces are close to each other. Pull throughs have more room between spaces." Another RVer noted at Haggards RV Campground, "The sites were large and plenty of room for my slideout and not too close to next site."
Seasonal availability: RV park operational seasons vary widely. Monarch Spur RV Park operates "from May 1 to November 1" with 43 developed sites, while others like Haggards RV Campground remain open year-round, providing consistent options regardless of travel timing.
