UFO Watchtower, located near Center, Colorado, represents one of the San Luis Valley's most distinctive glamping destinations, with unique accommodation options set under expansive dark skies perfect for stargazing. The property combines glamping with the unusual attraction of a UFO observation deck, creating an otherworldly experience that attracts visitors seeking both comfort and the extraordinary. Sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and charcoal grills, with luxury accommodation options that elevate the camping experience beyond traditional tent sites. The surrounding Sangre de Cristo mountain views provide a dramatic backdrop to this one-of-a-kind retreat where glamping guests can enjoy both comfort and cosmic contemplation. As one reviewer noted, "The star gazing is amazing as well! Will come back again."
Valley View Hot Springs and Joyful Journey Hot Springs provide unique glamping experiences centered around natural hot spring access, with accommodations including yurts and upscale glamping structures with proper beds and linens. These sites combine natural thermal soaking with comfortable, climate-controlled accommodations that feature electricity and enhanced amenities not found in traditional camping. The proximity to Great Sand Dunes National Park (approximately 30 minutes from some properties) adds significant recreational value for glamping guests. On-site amenities at these glamping resorts include hot mineral pools, massage services, and yoga sessions, creating wellness-focused luxury camping experiences. A visitor wrote, "Beautiful night sky. The owners are very interesting and friendly people." Seasonal considerations include stronger winds in June and cold nights during shoulder seasons, with most luxury glamping accommodations remaining open year-round but offering peak experiences from late spring through early fall.
"There is an observation deck above the ufo information center. Which also sells souvenirs. Porto potty’s are the restrooms. The view is great of the surrounding mountains."
"The area was very clean and although it's right off the highway the camping spots are tucked far enough away to where it's no bother."
from $15 / night
"It was our first time to tent camp in Colorado and it was great. Several sites to choose from. Some have views of the dunes, some are more secluded. Bathrooms were clean."
"It was still off season so we did not have running water at the site but we were able to fill up on site when we arrived."
from $25 - $169 / night
"Super easy to access, very nice staff & good amenities. I pitched my tent four one night here. Tent sites are spacious & have a privacy fence between them."
"The staff really make this place five stars. So sweet and helpful and welcoming! Amenities are fine, pool was closed during our post-labor day visit."
"Nestled next to the Rio Grande River hand its gorgeous. This is the Rio Grande in Colorado so there's plenty of running water for tubing, rafting and fishing."
"There is an office at the entrance and the staff were friendly. Next to the office is a community room and laundry room. The RV sites have water and electric hookup."
from $29 - $42 / night
"The RV spots are on one side of the large parking lot, with the hook up spaces in the middle, with non-electric spots running around two of the outside sides. "
"The Sangre de Christo Mountains tower in the distance and on a moonlit night, they positively glow from the farthest pool."
from $80 / night
"Only an hour from the Sand Dunes, 45 min from Creede, and close to Three Barrel Brewing Co! The cabin was perfect, full bathroom, half kitchen, and plenty of sweetness that makes you feel cozy!"
"They also have great trails close that you can drive to via atv or ohv's. Wonderful views all around from our campsites! Great mom and pop business that is reasonably priced."
"Surrounded by pine trees and aspens. Each RV site has full hookups, fire ring, picnic table. Nice, clean, bath house with showers. There are also cute covered wagon “cabins” and one cabin."
"We ended up pulling into this campground at night when we didn't feel safe driving on the road any longer. Spots were easy to find. Basic setup, table and fire pit. Bathrooms were stocked and clean."
"Tho the road to Beaver Reservoir is close by, it is a quiet campground even during the day and pretty much dead silence at night."
"The camp sites were simple but great and you have total access to all hot springs, bathrooms, showers, sauna, AND a communal outdoor kitchen."
"Clothing optional hot springs and camping"
ScoutLovely tree lined campground on the Rio Grande. Surrounded by pine trees and aspens. Each RV site has full hookups, fire ring, picnic table. Nice, clean, bath house with showers. There are also cute covered wagon “cabins” and one cabin. We stayed in a RV site along the river. Owners very nice and welcoming.
TravelerFree, clean, pit toilet quite, greate view all around.
GuideCame a few days before the ground closes for winter so it was nice and mostly empty. Some sites are very close to a road, country road so not tons of traffic but not super private.
GuideCampers get to soak, dinner and breakfast is included. Electric if you need it. Good deal. The reflexology is awesome!
ScoutKept us informed of campground happenings via text. Very family friendly with playground and pool. Pizzas, appetizers and breakfast available at the store/office.
TravelerThe campground had plenty of space for large rig, and the camp store had a good array of supplies in addition to being one of the few places to get sand sleds. Only complaint was there was not a lot of bathrooms, and there was a decently long line at sundown for showers.
RangerStaff were amazing! So friendly. Breakfast on weekend was delicious and they even had GF waffles! Fun coffee kiosk too. We stayed at the bunkhouse which was a nice break from tent and camper life while we visited the sites nearby. Kids loved all the toys and peddle bikes.
ScoutCamp host met us at the entrance and led us to our site.
ScoutWe love South Fork Lodge and RV. Not fancy but run by great people who aim to please!
Near Center, Colorado, glamping and camping options sit at roughly 7,600 feet elevation in the San Luis Valley, with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains creating a dramatic eastern backdrop. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with daytime summer highs reaching 80°F but dropping to 45°F at night. Wind patterns intensify during June and early summer months, requiring campers to secure equipment properly.
Stargazing opportunities: At the UFO Watchtower, the lack of light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "The wind was very strong in June, if you use a canopy, try to use some strap tiedowns so your canopy frame does not bend. Very dusty and dry air, but very peaceful!" reports Rocky F.
Hot springs soaking: Multiple mineral pools at Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust provide relaxation options at different temperatures. "We loved the sauna. Hiking to the hot springs pools and soaking with snow on the ground was a whole experience worth having," notes Katie. Note that this is a clothing-optional facility.
Great Sand Dunes access: Just 30 minutes from most glamping locations, the national park offers sand boarding and sledding. "You can rent sand boards and sleds here if the weather is right," explains Myndi C. about facilities at Great Sand Dunes Oasis.
Distinctive accommodations: The UFO Watchtower offers unusual camping with observatory access. "Really cool place! Beautiful night sky. The owners are very interesting and friendly people," writes Jen S.
Hot springs amenities: Valley View provides extensive facilities beyond just soaking. "You have total access to all hot springs, bathrooms, showers, sauna, AND a communal outdoor kitchen," shares Brittany R., adding that the clothing-optional environment is welcoming but not mandatory.
River proximity: At South Fork Campground, sites adjacent to the Rio Grande provide water access. "Nestled next to the Rio Grande River and its gorgeous. This is the Rio Grande in Colorado so there's plenty of running water for tubing, rafting and fishing," notes Charles B.
Weather variations: Summer nights get cold despite warm days. "Super fun and kooky place and the people who run it are very friendly. We were the only ones here Halloween weekend so it was very quiet and peaceful most of the time. Cold at night!" reports Jennifer M. about UFO Watchtower.
Limited shade: Many glamping sites in the area lack natural shade. "No shade. Very close to other campsites," mentions Josh in his UFO Watchtower review.
Reservation requirements: Popular hot springs require advance booking. "Valley View is a large swath of land with about 12 beautiful pools and about 20+ camping spots. You need to reserve well in advance as the demand is much higher than the capacity," explains Morgan Y.
Kid-friendly activities: Alamosa KOA offers structured activities for children. "This campground has everything you need... We showed up on a Saturday and there was rock painting and $2 ice cream for the kids right next to the playground," Eric B. recommends.
Playgrounds and pools: Family-oriented amenities enhance the experience for younger campers. "The Alamosa KOA has a nice sized heated, outdoor pool with reasonable hours, closing around 8:00 PM. The pool temperature was warm enough for even the adults to slip right into it," writes Kari T.
Noise considerations: Family areas can get lively. "If you want a quieter site however be sure to request something AWAY from the playground! It's pretty noisy with the kids," suggests Eric B. about Alamosa KOA.
Hookup availability: South Fork Lodge & RV Park offers full-service sites. "Great place for full hook up spots in South Fork. They also have great trails close that you can drive to via atv or ohv's. Wonderful views all around from our campsites!" recommends Philip B.
Site spacing: Look for properties with adequate space between sites. "You're spaced out so you're not on top of your neighbors. Everything is well maintained," reports Betsy M. about South Fork Lodge & RV Park.
Shower access: Not all glamping facilities maintain consistent shower availability. "If you plan on visiting during the pandemic, the shower facilities are closed to the public," noted Cody about Great Sand Dunes Oasis, highlighting the importance of checking current amenity status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Center, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Center, CO is UFO Watchtower with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 17 glamping camping locations near Center, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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