Camping around Gardner, Colorado offers sites at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,400 feet with significant temperature fluctuations common throughout the camping season. Many locations require advance planning for water access, as availability varies greatly by site and season. The nearby Sangre de Cristo mountains create unique microclimates that affect camping conditions differently than in the nearby valleys.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: From Lake Isabel's St. Charles Campground, take the Cisneros trail to explore abandoned mines. "I definitely want to come back and backpack the Cisneros trail to see the mines," notes one camper, highlighting the historical exploration opportunities beyond typical hiking.
Visit Bishop Castle: Located just 5 minutes from Aspen Acres Campground, this unique stone structure provides an unusual side trip. "This was a campground that had RV spots, cabins and tent spots... We used this campground to explore the surrounding area and Bishop Castle. Staff was very friendly," explains a visitor who found it convenient for area exploration.
Winter ice viewing: The Zapata Falls area transforms completely during winter months. "The nearby hike to Zapata falls is worthwhile too, especially in winter for the giant ice sheets in the canyon," reports one winter visitor who discovered the seasonal spectacle.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: Sacred White Shell Mountain dispersed camping area provides exceptional stargazing. "Dark skies there. You can see the Milky Way with the naked eye," notes one camper who appreciated the minimal light pollution in this free camping area.
Sand boarding opportunities: Rentals available at multiple locations near the dunes. "I'd recommend renting a sand board before you enter the park (it was $20 at the oasis just before the park entrance) so you only have to wait in the line once," advises a visitor to Pinon Flats Campground who found ways to maximize their time.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for larger animals throughout the region. "We were visited by several mule deer and very friendly chipmunks. Bears are in the area, but a bear-proof locker is on the site," reports a camper who appreciated the wildlife encounters at Lake Isabel.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically by location and carrier. "No phone or internet service at all with AT&T or Verizon. That made it even better, got the chance to disconnect from the world for a few days," explains a camper at St. Charles Campground who found the disconnect beneficial.
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. "The road up is rough for sedans," warns one camper about Zapata Falls access, while another notes of Medano Pass Primitive Road: "The 12 mile trip up from the Park takes about 4 hours, yes it's that rough."
Insect preparation essential: Mosquito populations surge during summer months. "July was mosquito madness. Honestly I am from the country and can deal with bugs, but being dived bombed by 30 mosquitos (not exaggerating) is intense. Be ready for battle," cautions a Pinon Flats visitor who recommends visiting in spring or fall instead.
Tips for camping with families
Sand play preparation: Bring appropriate footwear and equipment for dune visits. "Mid-summer, I would also encourage you not to wear open toe sandals, as the sand gets blistering hot. Reported summer temps are between 80-140 degrees," advises one family at Pinon Flats who learned about sand temperature extremes.
Kid-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds offer specific family amenities. At Great Sand Dunes Oasis, "There is also a small playground for kids. Staff was super friendly and helpful!" according to a camper who appreciated the additional facilities.
Watch for rapid weather changes: Conditions can shift quickly, especially with children. "Weather moves very fast through this valley. We had snow and sunshine within a couple of hours," reports a camper at Zapata Falls who experienced dramatic weather shifts during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection crucial: Review site details carefully before booking. "Really look at the picture of your site before you book it. I brought a teardrop and it felt like I was kind of camping in the road (site 80)," advises an RVer at Pinon Flats who wished they had selected a different site configuration.
Water quality concerns: Test water before filling tanks at some locations. "All fine for a night except we filled our tank with the most disgusting undrinkable water imaginable. I'd not come back for that reason," warns an RVer at Aspen Acres who encountered water quality issues.
Power hookup positioning: Check hookup locations when setting up. "Our port is at the back and the outlet was way up front. To reach, we had to set up near the front of the site which limited our parking," notes an RVer at Aspen Acres who had to adjust their setup to accommodate hookup locations.
