Camping near Center, Colorado offers access to Rio Grande River sites, mountain views, and high-altitude terrain at around 7,600 feet elevation. Temperatures vary significantly between day and night, often dropping 30 degrees after sunset. The region provides both established RV parks with hookups and tent sites for those seeking a more rustic experience.
What to do
Soak in hot springs: Sand Dunes Recreation has natural artesian hot springs with multiple temperature options. "The Greenhouse is lush with plants and not as crowded as the main pool. We were in overflow camping and were treated to some amazing sunsets on the Sand Dunes," according to one visitor at Sand Dunes Recreation.
Fish the Rio Grande: Woods & River RV Park provides direct river access for anglers. A camper noted, "The fishing was awesome. The Rio Grande flows by and so do the trout. When we were there, fishing was free every 1st weekend of the month." Antlers Rio Grande Lodge and RV Park also offers fly fishing steps from campsites.
Visit Creede: This historic mining town is accessible from nearby campgrounds. "The town of Creed is cute and funky. Kind of a shithole driving through, but, don't let that scare you away. Great food and even better service," shared one family staying at Antlers Rio Grande Lodge.
What campers like
Mountain views: Sites at Grandview Cabins and RV offer panoramic vistas. "Quite, clean and beautiful setting," noted one camper about the views surrounding this South Fork property.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks go beyond basic facilities. "Kids can ride bikes around the property. There is a basketball hoop and tether ball," reported a visitor at Chinook Cabins & RV Park. Another camper at Woods & River RV Park mentioned "a fun kids area with playground and treehouse with zip line."
Pet exercise areas: Multiple parks accommodate four-legged campers. "The RV park is extremely quiet and pet friendly," mentioned a visitor at Grandview Cabins and RV, while Cool Sunshine RV Park offers a "small finced dog park" according to a recent review.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disturbances. At Cool Sunshine RV Park, a camper warned, "Come prepared, it is in the middle of downtown so a lot of traffic noise of loud cars racing down the road and it is right next to the railroad tracks. The train whistle is deafening and will rattle your teeth. 5 trains came by the one night, one as late as 10 pm."
Hot water systems: Some parks utilize geothermal water throughout their facilities. At Sand Dunes Recreation, "All the water on site comes out hot which was great for our chilly visit yet may not be as nice in the hotter months."
Limited bathrooms: Facility availability varies widely between parks. One visitor at Woods & River RV Park noted: "There is only one stall with a toilet that always seemed to be monopolized by someone taking a shower."
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with activities: Ute Bluff Lodge offers family-friendly camping. A visitor called it a "Quiet, family and pup friendly campground."
Book cabins for convenience: Many families opt for cabin rentals. One visitor at Sand Dunes Recreation mentioned, "We booked this cabin for the cheap price and didn't even know about the on-site hot spring until we got there. It's a bit quirky but we loved it."
Pack for temperature swings: Prepare clothing layers for dramatic temperature changes. A camper at Sand Dunes Recreation advised, "My recommendation is to hit the sand dunes NOT at midday like me when it's hottest from the sun."
Tips from RVers
Site placement considerations: At Cool Sunshine RV Park, "Sites are very close to eachother" while another RVer warned about the "narrow spaces."
RV size compatibility: Woods & River RV Park accommodates larger vehicles. "Very long pull through sites as well as some 'hybrid' sites that aren't pull through," explained one RVer.
WiFi and cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly. At Grandview Cabins and RV, a visitor reported, "Internet is not great. ATT Cell phone coverage sporadic." Moon Valley Campground was praised for having "great cell with verizon and onsite WiFi."
