Dispersed camping areas near Crestone provide options for campers at elevations between 7,500-9,000 feet in Colorado's San Luis Valley. The region's diverse terrain includes sandy areas transitioning to rocky mountain terrain with seasonal considerations important for planning. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F during day but drop significantly at night, particularly at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Hike to mountain lakes: North Crestone Creek Campground connects to trails leading to alpine lakes. "We were right next to the river towards the end of the camping spots and hiked up the backpacking trail at the end to go fishing up at the lake and rivers along the trail. There was plenty to do but it was also quiet; perfect for down time," notes Jordan M.
Stargazing opportunities: The UFO Watchtower campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "The star gazing is amazing as well! Will come back again," reports Autumn W. Sites here are simple but effective with fire rings and picnic tables for $15 per night.
Visit natural hot springs: For a unique experience, Valley View Hot Springs offers camping with access to multiple soaking pools. "We participated in the clothing optional experience but didn't feel like we had to. Great people all around from guests to staff," shares Brittany R., noting the campground also provides access to showers, sauna, and a communal outdoor kitchen.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Alvarado Campground, campers appreciate the thoughtful layout. "We've stayed at campsite 36 and 41. 41 is our favorite. It has plenty of space and a nice creek running near it. We felt secluded. Hiking trail was not far from us," explains Trish M. This established campground maintains well-separated sites with natural buffers.
Clean facilities: Sand Dunes Recreation maintains well-kept amenities. "Showers, laundry, dump station, and even a place to wash dishes. Discounts for the hotsprings when you camp," notes Eli M. Many campgrounds in the area provide vault toilets, but facilities with showers are limited.
Wildlife viewing: Mountain goat sightings are common at higher elevation sites. "A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains," reports Phil G. about his experience camping at Dispersed Sand Area 1.
What you should know
Summer mosquitoes: July brings significant mosquito activity to sites near creeks. "Choose wisely not every site has a view of the dunes. I did my research and was rewarded with a site on the outer portion of the camp ground. Our site had decent shade but many are exposed, bring a tarp or canopy," advises Sarah B. about Pinon Flats Campground, adding, "July was mosquito madness. Honestly I am from the country and can deal with bugs, but being dived bombed by 30 mosquitos is intense."
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites require careful driving. "The road to Zapata Falls is super rough but passenger cars shouldn't have any problem as long as you keep it slow," notes Gina J. Most dispersed camping areas have dirt roads that can become challenging after rain.
Wind exposure: Many sites lack natural windbreaks. "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!" advises Rocky F. about camping at UFO Watchtower.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: Sand Dunes Recreation provides swimming options after dusty days exploring. "The hot pool was a welcome destination after an afternoon of sliding down sand dunes and hiking back up. Nice grass for tents. Cafe menu is great," shares AJ M.
Sandy camping surfaces: Crestone Needle Trail offers sandy areas that work well for tent setup. "This place was a nice spot for dispersed camping! Lots of spots, and super easy to find just off the road. A bit sandy, but the soil underneath worked for stakes. The temp was cool, but not cold—great for early September!" explains Nathaniel F.
Bear safety education: Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. "We did have an incident with some bears coming into the camp 2 nights in a row because the people next to us left their food out. That is however their fault not the bear's as we are in their domain," cautions Jordan M. about North Crestone Creek Campground, which provides bear boxes at established sites.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup sites: For RVs requiring hookups, options are restricted. "We easily got our 40' coach into a very level site," mentions DaveAdele C. about Alvarado Campground, though noting the rustic nature of the facilities.
Site selection importance: At Zapata Falls Campground, site choice matters for RVs. "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and rv up to 30 or so. Many of the sites in the 30s up are useless other than a van," warns Diane S., recommending sites below 30 for better access.
Temperature variability: Prepare for significant temperature shifts between day and night. "Campsites are w electric and water and sewer hookup. Also a dump station. Picnic table and firepit. Lots of room for big rigs," notes Donald S. about Great Sand Dunes Oasis, recommending RVers come prepared for both hot days and cool nights.
