The Great Sand Dunes region sits at approximately 7,500-8,200 feet elevation and experiences dramatic temperature swings between day and night, often exceeding 30°F difference. The San Luis Valley surrounding the dunes receives less than 10 inches of annual rainfall, creating a high-desert environment where nights remain cool even during summer months. Camping opportunities range from primitive sites to upscale accommodations within a 30-mile radius of the park entrance.
What to do
Sand sledding and boarding: Rent equipment at Great Sand Dunes Oasis to experience sliding down the massive dunes. "You can rent sand boards and sleds here if the weather is right. There is also a restaurant with food that was better than we expected it to be and a gas station," notes Myndi C., who appreciated the campground's proximity to the dunes.
UFO watching: Visit the UFO Watchtower in Hooper, about 30 minutes from the dunes, for a unique experience. "The star gazing is amazing as well! Will come back again," writes Autumn W. The site offers camping with views of the night sky unobstructed by light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing and amateur astronomy.
Hot springs soaking: Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust features several natural hot springs and hiking trails. One visitor shared, "We participated in the clothing optional experience but didn't feel like we had to. Great people all around from guests to staff." The property includes hiking to hot spring caves and several soaking pools of varying temperatures.
Mountain hiking: Explore trails near Lake Isabel, about 75 minutes from the dunes. "There is a great hike that knocked us out," reports Kathrina M., who stayed in July 2020. The area offers multiple difficulty levels of hiking through pine forests with creek access.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: The San Luis Valley's clear air and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. "It was so amazing I am glad my friend was there so I have backup to my story. During the Perseids, so shooting stars were out. By far the largest and brightest either of us had ever seen," reports Marissa W. about Davenport Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Many campsites offer opportunities to see native wildlife. "We were visited by some wildlife. A deer walked up to our site when we were making smores," notes Noah E., who camped at Davenport. The relatively undeveloped nature of the region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
Clean facilities: Alamosa KOA receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms were very clean, staff was friendly, and they have wifi," writes Nicole C. The campground offers well-maintained shower facilities and laundry options for visitors needing to clean up after sandy adventures.
Mountain views: Multiple campgrounds feature panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. "The Rocky Mountains rise behind the dunes, creating a stunning landscape," observes a visitor to the region. Campsites typically face either the valley floor or have mountain backdrops depending on location.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is unreliable throughout the region. "No cell service for Verizon. Personally, I was happy to be unplugged for a couple of days!" mentions Michelle G. about Aspen Acres Campground. Most campgrounds offer little to no cellular reception, though some have limited WiFi near office areas.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Cold at night!" warns Jennifer M. about UFO Watchtower camping. Nights in the valley can drop below 40°F even during summer months, requiring warm sleeping gear regardless of season.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have questionable water. "We filled our tank with the most disgusting undrinkable water imaginable. I'd not come back for that reason," cautions Richard R. about one site. Bringing your own drinking water or purification methods is advisable.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping close to Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve requires advance booking. "We booked same day for a couple days. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly," notes Vanessa about Aspen Acres, though this last-minute availability is uncommon during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Great Sand Dunes Oasis offers children's facilities. "There's also a small playground for kids. Staff was super friendly and helpful!" reports Myndi C. The playground provides an activity option when children need a break from dune climbing.
Kid-friendly activities: Alamosa KOA organizes family events during summer. "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. shares. The organized activities can help entertain children during downtime between park visits.
Bathroom access: Consider campsites with good bathroom facilities when traveling with children. "Bathrooms were fantastic. Showers were some of the best I've seen with a private dressing area and hooks/shelves to put your dry clothes on," explains Myndi C. about Great Sand Dunes Oasis, noting features particularly helpful for families.
Safety considerations: Rocky terrain and extreme temperatures require extra supervision. "The roads are really rocky. The views are really pretty," notes Chris P. about access to Great Sand Dunes Oasis, highlighting the need for appropriate footwear and careful navigation with children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: UFO Watchtower offers limited amenities. "The sites are very simple with a fire ring and a table. There is absolutely no shade and you're essentially in a big dirt parking spot," explains Josh, making it better for self-contained units with their own power.
Water management: Plan water usage carefully. "Campground has everything you need. Trash pick up, firewood delivery pick nick tables and fire rings at every site," notes Eric B. about Alamosa KOA, which offers full hookups important for extended stays.
Level sites: Most RV sites require minimal leveling. "We have a 26' trailer and stayed in site 18. It was near the end of the row and relatively quiet," shares Michelle G., though she recommends bringing extension cords as some power connections may be distant from optimal parking spots.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities. "Our RV site was quaint with a fantastic location, but the store and the bathrooms were closed and we never could find the dumpster!" warns Erin C., highlighting the importance of planning waste management when glamping close to Great Sand Dunes National Park.
