Top Glamping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve

Camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, Colorado

Camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve in Colorado offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes, starry skies, and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for established campgrounds with amenities or more primitive, dispersed camping options, there's something for everyone. The area is known for its breathtaking views of the sand dunes, mountains, and the Milky Way, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and stargazers.

From the Pinon Flats Campground within the park to the quirky UFO Watchtower nearby, each campground offers its own unique charm and set of features. Read on to discover what to do, what campers like, what you should know, and tips for camping with families and RVs.

What to do

The Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike the dunes, splash in Medano Creek, or explore the surrounding trails and mountains. The park is also a fantastic spot for stargazing due to its dark skies.

  • Hiking and Exploring: The Pinon Flats Campground offers direct access to several trails connecting to the dunes. "You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking," says Hannah T. in her review.
  • Stargazing: The clear, dark skies make for incredible stargazing opportunities. "We saw two of the most incredible sunsets imaginable," shares James P. about his stay at the Great Sand Dunes Oasis in his review.
  • Nearby Attractions: Don't miss the hike to Zapata Falls, a short drive from the park. "The hike to the Zapata Falls is short. Love this place!" says Julie W. in her review.

What campers like

Campers appreciate the natural beauty, peacefulness, and unique experiences offered by the campgrounds near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve. Many campgrounds provide stunning views and a sense of solitude, making them ideal for a relaxing getaway.

  • Scenic Views: "Great campsite with great views of Crestone Peaks and the Sand Dunes," says Chris E. about Pinon Flats Campground in his review.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: "We absolutely loved this campground. Although some spots are tight, the quiet, peaceful beauty made all the difference," shares Karen L. about Pinon Flats Campground in her review.
  • Unique Experiences: The UFO Watchtower offers a quirky and fun camping experience. "Super fun and kooky place and the people who run it are very friendly," says Jennifer M. in her review.

What you should know

Before heading out, it's important to be aware of some key details about camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve. This includes understanding the amenities available, potential challenges, and any specific rules or regulations.

  • Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Zapata Falls Campground has no running water or electric hookups. "There are no frills at Zapata Falls--no hook-ups, no hosts, and only vault toilets," notes Sara B. in her review.
  • Weather Conditions: The weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds and temperature fluctuations. "It rained every day we were there. Very windy as well… make sure you stake everything down," advises Jade T. about Alvarado Campground in her review.
  • Insects: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in the summer. "The place was also Mosquito Central (at least during our July visit) so bug spray or (better yet) a screened pavilion are highly recommended," says Sandor K. about Pinon Flats Campground in his review.

Tips for camping with families

Camping with families near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve can be a memorable experience. There are several campgrounds that cater to families with amenities and activities that kids will love.

  • Family-Friendly Amenities: The Sand Dunes Recreation offers a variety of amenities including heated pools and hot tubs. "Enjoyed our stay! Super close to the dunes with showers and laundry. There’s also heated pools and hot tubs," says Lannie B. in her review.
  • Activities for Kids: The Alamosa KOA provides activities like rock painting and ice cream for kids. "We showed up on a Saturday and there was rock painting and $2 ice cream for the kids right next to the playground," shares Eric B. in his review.
  • Safety and Comfort: Make sure to bring plenty of layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. "When we were there the weather was perfect. Bit chilly but felt good on the skin and I wore shorts," says Randall K. about Zapata Falls Campground in his review.

Tips from RVers

RVers will find several campgrounds near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve that cater to their needs. From full hookups to spacious sites, there are options for all types of RVs.

  • Full Hookups: The Great Sand Dunes Oasis offers full hookups and other amenities. "Super friendly staff. Tent camp parked with Sprinter RV. Great sunset view. Close to Great Sand Dunes. Super clean bathrooms and HOT showers!" says Kevin in his review.
  • Spacious Sites: The Alamosa KOA provides spacious and level sites. "The sites are typical KOA- fairly close but well kept and level," notes Ellen in her review.
  • Accessibility: Some campgrounds are more accessible for larger rigs. "This year we enjoyed the upgrade of the road being paved up the mountain. It was nice to see people in the campground with longer trailers," shares Julie W. about Zapata Falls Campground in her review.

Camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve offers a variety of experiences, from the serene and scenic to the quirky and fun. Whether you're a family looking for a memorable adventure or an RVer seeking convenience and comfort, there's a campground that will meet your needs.

Best Glamping Sites Near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO (20)

    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    1.

    Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    51 Reviews
    138 Photos
    398 Saves
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, Colorado

    Great Sand Dunes Oasis, near Mosca, CO, is your go-to spot for a memorable camping experience. Nestled close to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, this campground offers a fantastic base for exploring the towering dunes and stunning landscapes.

    The campground operates from April 1 to October 31, providing a range of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options. Visitors have raved about the friendly staff and the cleanliness of the facilities. The bathrooms and showers are kept in top-notch condition, and there's a camp store stocked with essentials, including a gas pump. If you need to rent sandboards for some dune fun, you can grab them here too.

    One of the standout features is the breathtaking view of the dunes, especially at sunset. The night sky is a spectacle, with clear views of the Milky Way. The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

    For those who enjoy a bit of comfort, the campground offers electric and water hookups, and there's a sanitary dump station for RVs. Fires are allowed, and you can purchase firewood on-site. Picnic tables are available at each site, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.

    Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or a longer adventure, Great Sand Dunes Oasis provides a clean, quiet, and scenic environment to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $169 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Alamosa KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Alamosa KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Alamosa KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Alamosa KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Alamosa KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Alamosa KOA

    2.

    Alamosa KOA

    17 Reviews
    62 Photos
    64 Saves
    Alamosa, Colorado

    Nestled between the breathtaking San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains at 7,550 feet, the San Luis Valley is your gateway to adventure. This KOA is near the golden ridges of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, where you can hike dunes up to 750 feet tall. It's also at the base of Colorado's fourth tallest mountain, 14,345-foot Blanca Peak.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from UFO Watchtower
    Camper-submitted photo from UFO Watchtower
    Camper-submitted photo from UFO Watchtower
    Camper-submitted photo from UFO Watchtower
    Camper-submitted photo from UFO Watchtower
    Camper-submitted photo from UFO Watchtower

    3.

    UFO Watchtower

    11 Reviews
    18 Photos
    87 Saves
    Mosca, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel

    4.

    St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel

    9 Reviews
    21 Photos
    149 Saves
    Beulah, Colorado

    Overview

    Nestled among aspen and tall Douglas fir trees, St. Charles Campground is in a quiet part of the Lake Isabel Recreation Area. Located on the banks of St. Charles Creek, the campground is popular with campers who enjoy the sounds of water tumbling through the shaded boulders.

    Recreation

    Lake Isabel is stocked with brown and rainbow trout. The accessible lakeshore path provides ample fishing spots. Brook trout can be found in St. Charles Creek. Several trails begin at the recreation area. Hiking opportunities include the Snowslide Trail and the Cisneros Trail. Both trails are also open to motorcycles, and Cisneros is a challenging ATV route.

    Facilities

    Lake Isabel is stocked with brown and rainbow trout. The accessible lakeshore path provides ample fishing spots. Brook trout can be found in St. Charles Creek. Several trails begin at the recreation area. Hiking opportunities include the Snowslide Trail and the Cisneros Trail. Both trails are also open to motorcycles, and Cisneros is a challenging ATV route.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits a mile west of Lake Isabel in the Wet Mountains, a beautiful range in the San Isabel National Forest. At an elevation of 8,600 feet, Lake Isabel was designed and constructed in the 1930s as a recreational haven from the dusty plains far below. Rugged mountain peaks in the area provide water for the abundant wildlife and fish populations.

    Nearby Attractions

    A nearby lodge offers paddle and rowboat rentals, groceries and a restaurant. Golf courses are about 15 minutes away.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.__ A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.____ Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.__ In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ophir Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Ophir Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Ophir Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Ophir Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Ophir Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Ophir Creek

    5.

    Ophir Creek

    8 Reviews
    33 Photos
    87 Saves
    Beulah, Colorado

    Available activities include hiking, fishing, bicycling, motorcycle, and ATV. Fishing in Ophir Creek. A short drive will take you to various trailheads.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Acres Campground

    6.

    Aspen Acres Campground

    7 Reviews
    41 Photos
    78 Saves
    Beulah, Colorado

    Aspen Acres is a small, quiet RV campground located in the less traveled San Isabel mountain range, only 25 minutes from I-25 at 9200 ft(Google Map HERE) Our R.V. sites all provide standard hook ups and are gravel and grass. We don't believe in asphalt and concrete pads up here in the mountains. Each site has water, electric(30 amp), and all but 7 have sewer.  There are 8 cabins, a park model for large family's, 5 outfitter tent sites, and a handful of tent spaces.  

    Wifi is available for those who want to connect. 

    Oh, did we mention you don't have to go over any mountain passes to get here?

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Campground

    7.

    Davenport Campground

    7 Reviews
    39 Photos
    103 Saves
    Beulah, Colorado

    Overview

    Davenport Campground was one of the first Forest Service campgrounds, and is near the now-abandoned Squirrel Creek Campground, the very first Forest Service campground in the country. In 2010, Davenport was rebuilt to evoke the original 1920s design. Adirondack shelters and a common cooking shelter with stone fireplaces were built and old-style log picnic tables add to the historic character of this campground. The campground offers access to an array of hiking, mountain biking, motorcycle and off-road vehicle trails.

    Recreation

    The 4.5-mile Squirrel Creek Trail is open to hiking, biking, horseback riding and motorcycle riding. This trail meets the original Squirrel Creek Campground site where a major flood, in 1947, washed out the never-reopened road and campground. Silver Circle, Second Mace, and South Creek Trails can be accessed nearby, too. Anglers enjoy casting for brook trout in Squirrel Creek.

    Facilities

    The 4.5-mile Squirrel Creek Trail is open to hiking, biking, horseback riding and motorcycle riding. This trail meets the original Squirrel Creek Campground site where a major flood, in 1947, washed out the never-reopened road and campground. Silver Circle, Second Mace, and South Creek Trails can be accessed nearby, too. Anglers enjoy casting for brook trout in Squirrel Creek.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits in a grassy meadow surrounded by aspen and spruce trees at an elevation of 8,500 feet. Squirrel Creek runs alongside this scenic facility in the Wet Mountains of southern Colorado.

    Nearby Attractions

    Bishop's Castle, a replica of a medieval castle, is about 2 miles from the campground, just off Highway 165. The always-in-progress structure is an interesting display of labor-intensive masonry and intricate wrought ironwork. Beautiful Lake Isabel is less than 10 miles away. Visitors enjoy canoeing, kayaking and fishing in the stocked lake. Several mountain trails weave through the area. Pueblo Mountain Park in Beulah Valley is about 7 miles east. This scenic park offers hiking trails, educational programs and a stone labyrinth.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.__ A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.____ Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.__ In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel
    Camper-submitted photo from La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

    8.

    La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

    6 Reviews
    21 Photos
    104 Saves
    Beulah, Colorado

    Overview

    La Vista Campground is situated in a meadow overlooking the west side of the 40-acre Lake Isabel. It is set along the Frontier Pathways and Historic Byway in the Wet Mountains along one of the Colorado Birding Trails. Lake Isabel is one of the few lakes in Colorado developed purely for recreation purposes. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the lake attracts many campers who come to hike, canoe, fish and spend time bird watching. St. Charles Creek flows near the campground and offers additional fishing opportunities.

    Recreation

    Lake Isabel welcomes non-motorized boating and fishing. Brown and brook trout are stocked in the lake and the St. Charles headwaters reap brook trout. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bicycling or motorcycling on either the Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail. The 15-mile Cisneros Trail, also open to ATV riders, leads to the heart of the Wet Mountains, through forests and open, wildflower speckled valleys. Along the way, the trail connects to St. Charles Trail, which heads to St. Charles Peak.

    Facilities

    Lake Isabel welcomes non-motorized boating and fishing. Brown and brook trout are stocked in the lake and the St. Charles headwaters reap brook trout. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bicycling or motorcycling on either the Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail. The 15-mile Cisneros Trail, also open to ATV riders, leads to the heart of the Wet Mountains, through forests and open, wildflower speckled valleys. Along the way, the trail connects to St. Charles Trail, which heads to St. Charles Peak.

    Natural Features

    Shady pine and aspen trees are scattered throughout the campground. At 8,600 feet, the area enjoys cool summer days, a welcome relief from the heat in the plains far below. The Pike and San Isabel National Forest includes over a million acres of wilderness and over half of Colorado's mountain peaks that reach above 14,000 feet.

    Nearby Attractions

    A nearby lodge provides paddle and rowboat rentals, groceries and a restaurant. Golf courses are about 15 minutes away.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.__ A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.____ Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.__ In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust

    9.

    Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust

    7 Reviews
    12 Photos
    120 Saves
    Villa Grove, Colorado

    The Valley View Hot Springs, owned by the Orient Land Trust, is a unique place where visitors can immerse themselves in nature while connecting personally with OLT's cycle of sustainability. Through their stewardship and contributions, they help preserve the natural resources they so enjoy. Families can learn about and share this delicate eco-sanctuary with their children and pets. The property is entirely clothing optional and exists completely "off the grid", self-sustaining its amazing variety of features including a diverse ecosystem rich with wildlife, birds, bats, and plant life, a series of all natural, body temperature soaking ponds along wilderness trails, geothermally and hydroelectrically heated hot tub, sauna, and village, pure, natural spring fed swimming pool and showers, and all-season camping and rustic accommodations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA

    10.

    Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA

    14 Reviews
    22 Photos
    8 Saves
    Colorado City, Colorado

    Welcome to Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA, a great spot near Pueblo, CO, that's perfect for a relaxing stay. This campground is open all year and offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.

    One of the standout features here is the friendly and helpful staff. Many visitors have praised the team for their warm hospitality, making your stay even more enjoyable. The campground is also known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, including clean bathrooms and showers.

    If you're traveling with a big rig, you'll appreciate the easy access and spacious pull-through sites. The campground is conveniently located just off I-25, making it a breeze to get in and out. Despite its proximity to the highway, the campground remains relatively quiet, providing a peaceful environment for a good night's sleep.

    For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of options nearby. The campground itself offers amenities like a miniature golf course, a playground, and a market for any essentials you might need. Pets are welcome too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

    The views from the campground are another highlight. Many campers have raved about the stunning scenery and lovely breezes. Whether you're here for a quick overnight stop or a longer stay, you'll find plenty to appreciate at Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA. So, pack your bags and come enjoy a comfortable and scenic camping experience!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve is Great Sand Dunes Oasis with a 4.3-star rating from 51 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve?

TheDyrt.com has all 20 glamping camping locations near Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, with real photos and reviews from campers.