Camping near Blanca, Colorado, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, stargaze, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Hiking to the Dunes: The nearby Pinon Flats Campground is a great starting point for hiking. 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."
- Exploring Waterfalls: At Zapata Falls Campground, you can take a short hike to see the beautiful waterfall. A visitor said, "The hike to the falls is short and worth it."
- Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies. One reviewer at Zapata Falls Campground said, "You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking."
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views from Blue Lake Campground. One camper said, "The lakes themselves are absolutely astounding, with a constant waterfall providing a beautiful sound."
- Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Pinon Flats Campground noted, "Busy campground with clean toilets. Well maintained and clean camping spots."
- Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the friendly vibe. One reviewer at Rabbit Hole Ranch said, "Everyone was super friendly!"
What you should know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the summer. 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, have basic facilities. One visitor mentioned, "No running water, only vault toilets."
- Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis said, "We booked here last minute on a holiday weekend and we were thankful they had a spot for us!"
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Sand Dunes Recreation, which has a pool and restaurant. One camper said, "Great restaurant and bar at the pool area."
- Bring Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, it's smart to pack bug spray. A visitor at Pinon Flats Campground noted, "Lots of mosquitoes!"
- Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A camper at UFO Watchtower advised, "The campsites are extremely close, so be very considerate with noise!"
Tips from RVers
- Check for Hookups: If you need electric hookups, make sure to choose campgrounds like Great Sand Dunes Oasis, which offers full hookups. A visitor mentioned, "Our RV spot had full hookups."
- Space Considerations: Some RV spots can be tight. A camper at Alamosa KOA said, "The sites are typical KOA- fairly close but well kept and level."
- Be Prepared for Dust: If you're camping in a more rustic area, like Sacred White Shell Mountain, expect some dust. One camper noted, "It's very windy and there's a lot of sand."
Camping near Blanca, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just be ready for the elements and enjoy the beautiful scenery!