Tent camping near Blanca, Colorado offers a distinct desert-mountain ecosystem experience at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 8,500 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts in summer months, with daytime highs reaching 90°F and nighttime lows sometimes dropping to 40°F. Most camping areas sit on high desert terrain characterized by sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and sparse piñon pine vegetation that provides minimal natural shade.
What to do
Stargazing sessions after sunset: The Dunefield at Great Sand Dunes National Park provides exceptional night sky viewing. "We didn't see another soul, and the only noise all night came from the sand blowing in the wind around our tent," notes one camper who experienced the backcountry camping permit area.
Morning wildlife watching: Rise early to spot local wildlife including deer, foxes and various bird species. A visitor at Rabbit Hole Ranch reported, "We saw some swift foxes one morning as well."
Photography at sunrise/sunset: The dramatic lighting on the sand dunes and mountains creates ideal photography conditions. "Do yourself a favor and wake up early to watch the sunrise!!" advises a camper at Rabbit Hole Ranch.
Hike to remote dune areas: For experienced hikers, the backcountry dunes offer solitude and unique landscapes. "The hike in over the dune to a camp site with all your gear is frankly not easy, but it's short distance so it's manageable," shares one Dunefield camper.
What campers like
Protected camping spots from wind: Wind protection is highly valued by campers. "We would definitely recommend setting up camp in a shielded area, as the winds blew pretty hard all night," suggests a visitor to the Dunefield.
Campfire-friendly sites: Many BLM sites along Mt. Blanca Road offer established fire rings. A camper at Great Sand Dunes Dispersed noted, "Some sites have rock fire rings, so was pleased."
Dog-friendly locations: Several campgrounds welcome pets, with some even featuring resident dogs. "The two pups were super sweet and ended up hanging out with us for most of our stay!" reports a camper at Rabbit Hole Ranch.
Sites with elevation and seclusion: Higher sites often provide more privacy. "We kept driving until we found a spot that was both uphill and private, which definitely requires a vehicle with some height to it like an SUV rather than a sedan," explains a Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camper.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary by site: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. At Sacred White Shell Mountain Campground, "All campsites seems you would be able to get to with a RV or a 2 wheel car," according to one visitor.
Water planning is essential: No reliable water sources exist at most tent camping sites near Blanca. For Dunefield camping: "In total we brought about a gallon of water each, and by the time we hiked out the next morning we were down to the last couple of ounces."
Wind conditions affect comfort: Strong winds are common throughout the region. At Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir, one camper reported, "The van is rocking around. Hold onto your car doors when you open them."
Bug protection needed: Insects can be problematic, especially at dusk. "Bugs come out at dusk so be ready with lots of spray and cover your limbs," warns a Dunefield camper.
Arrive early for best sites: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. "There's plenty of spots off the main road, but seems like you need to get there early," advises a Great Sand Dunes Dispersed visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Reservoir camping options: Lake-based sites offer additional activities for children. Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir provides "clean washrooms, cement picnic tables, about 4 nice camping sites around the lake."
Choose lower elevation spots: For easier access with kids, select lower sites. "The bottom ones are more flat, while the ones higher up the mountain are a little more rocky," explains a Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camper.
Protective gear requirements: Sand, sun, and wind can affect children more severely. One Dunefield visitor advises, "Bring good sunblock, you will get toasted."
Family-friendly site selection: Some established campgrounds offer more amenities for families. "Our spot was amazing with established fire pit and tree stumps for sitting. The view was incredible. We had a nice flat area to park our pop up," shares a Shianna Station visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations for larger vehicles: Many dispersed sites work best for smaller RVs and trailers. A Great Sand Dunes Dispersed reviewer warned, "We were one of very few travel trailers on this road."
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain can make setting up difficult. "They were very difficult to level our smallish travel trailer and perhaps that is the problem," notes one Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camper.
Site scouting before setup: Arrive with daylight hours remaining to properly assess sites. "I recommend to get there before sunset so you can see," advises a visitor to Rabbit Hole Ranch.
Road condition awareness: Access roads may deteriorate as you travel further in. "The road to the third and farthest site became too rocky for some cars and horses to continue on, but my AWD SUV did great," reports a Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camper.
