Beyond the popular glamping experiences near Capulin, Colorado, the region offers diverse camping opportunities throughout the San Luis Valley. Located at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 8,500 feet, this high desert region experiences significant temperature shifts between day and night, even in summer months. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from May through October due to winter conditions and snowfall.
What to do
Fishing access: 30 minutes from camp: South Fork Campground sits directly on the Rio Grande River, offering premier fly fishing. "The Rio Grande in Colorado so there's plenty of running water for tubing, rafting and fishing," notes Charles B., highlighting the versatile water activities available.
Cave exploration: permit required: Spring Cave near some campgrounds is accessible seasonally (April 15-August 15) with a permit to protect bats from White-nose Syndrome. Jennifer Z. advises, "The cave is beautiful, and also wet and cold. Helmet and lights and good warm clothes are essential!"
Stargazing: minimal light pollution: The San Luis Valley's dark skies make it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. At UFO Watchtower near Hooper, Gary J. reports, "Stayed here for one night, passing through. Wind was howling, but calmed down after dark. A little noise from the road, but not bad."
Mountain drives: scenic routes: The area offers spectacular mountain driving, including Wolf Creek Pass. Sarah F. describes the region as "a beautiful, steep drive" with "ample amount of fishing. This area is an anglers dream, reservoirs in every corner of the map with the Rio Grande at your fingertips."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many campers appreciate sites positioned near water. At Pagosa Riverside Campground, Bret D. shares, "We had a nice large tent site right by the river. No trees on this site but the view and the river made up for that."
Privacy at dispersed sites: For those seeking seclusion away from established glamping in the Capulin area, Turkey Creek Road offers quieter options. Brandon F. explains, "Dirt road off the highway into the San Juan National Forest. 4 designated campsites along the road with fire pits. Road dead ends after about 3 miles. Great views across the river gorge."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are consistently mentioned in reviews. Calvin R. at Pagosa Riverside notes, "The staff were very helpful and the facilities including the showers were well maintained," while Toni K. at Cebolla Mesa Campground appreciates "clean bathrooms (with toilet paper!!)" despite being a dispersed site.
Family-friendly amenities: Beyond luxury glamping options, traditional campgrounds offer family activities. Eric B. describes Alamosa KOA: "This campground has everything you need. Trash pick up, firewood delivery pick nick tables and fire rings at every site. There was rock painting and $2 ice cream for the kids right next to the playground."
What you should know
Road conditions vary widely: Access to some campsites requires careful driving. Tyler S. warns about Cebolla Mesa: "Long and slightly rough dirt road entry. If it rains or storms you'll have a tough time getting out with a camper if you don't have a 4x4."
Weather patterns: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. Sloan Y. notes about UFO Watchtower, "The star gazing is amazing... but very dusty and dry air," while others mention cold nights even in summer months.
Reservation requirements: Booking policies differ by location. While dispersed sites operate on first-come basis, established campgrounds often require advance planning. Joseph W. advises about Pagosa Riverside, "We are in spot #40 a large pull through with electric and water only. Dump station available on property too, most spots are full service."
Wildlife encounters: Several campers report wildlife interactions, from harmless to potentially dangerous. Brandon F. mentions, "Site was made unique by the herd of cattle that roamed the road and surrounding meadows. Kind of cool until they started mooing incessantly at 6am."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: When glamping near Capulin isn't suitable for active children, look for campgrounds with play areas. Kari T. appreciates that Alamosa KOA has "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!"
Swimming options: For families wanting water recreation beyond wading, certain campgrounds offer dedicated facilities. Kari T. also notes, "The Alamosa KOA was chosen by our family because we like to have the option for swimming at the end of a hard day of play in the National Parks... This KOA has a nice sized heated, outdoor pool with reasonable hours."
Kid-friendly hiking: The region offers trails suitable for children. Jennifer T. recommends "Red Lake hike was awesome and easy," providing an accessible outdoor activity for families with younger children.
Noise considerations: For families needing quiet hours, campsite selection matters. Eric B. advises, "If you want a quieter site however be sure to request something AWAY from the playground! It's pretty noisy with the kids."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For RVers seeking alternatives to glamping accommodations near Capulin, available services vary significantly. Joseph W. reports from Pagosa Riverside: "We are in spot #40 a large pull through with electric and water only. Dump station available on property too, most spots are full service. Dog friendly and great paths around lake in which to walk your dog."
Leveling conditions: Site terrain differs across campgrounds. Troy W. notes about South Fork, "The RV sites have water and electric hookup," while Sarah F. advises, "Campground spots were well positioned but a tiny bit close. I would highly recommend any of the ones on the river."
Cell service: Connectivity varies by location, important for working RVers. Joseph W. reports, "Wifi throughout park and I have two bars of cell service with Verizon," while Abby M. at Great Sand Dunes Oasis notes, "Two bars version service."
Seasonal access: Most RV-friendly campgrounds in this region close during winter months. At Great Sand Dunes Oasis, campers can stay from "Apr 1 - Oct 31," with most facilities shutting down by mid-October.
