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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
