Kate S.
Traveler
TravelerCebolla Mesa Campground
Beautiful views , great restrooms
Stayed just one night / beautiful area over looking the mesas and valley in Arroyo Hondo.
Best Campgrounds near La Jara, CO
La Jara, Colorado and the surrounding San Luis Valley provide camping options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive sites. Within reasonable driving distance, campers can access establishments like Alamosa KOA and Cool Sunshine RV Park which offer full amenities including electric hookups, water, and shower facilities. The region also features more rustic experiences at locations such as Zapata Falls Campground near Mosca and Sacred White Shell Mountain, which offers free dispersed camping on public lands. RV enthusiasts will find multiple sites with hookups, while tent campers have options in both established campgrounds and more remote areas.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with many sites operating only from late spring through early fall. The Pinon Flats Campground in Great Sand Dunes National Park remains popular but often requires reservations during peak summer months. Aspen Glade Campground in Rio Grande National Forest operates from May to September, typical of higher-elevation sites in the region. Winter access becomes limited as many campgrounds close and unpaved roads may become impassable. According to a reviewer, "This area is a must visit! The Great Sand Dunes National park is unique and unlike any other."
Proximity to natural features drives campground popularity in the region. Several visitors noted the value of staying near Great Sand Dunes National Park, which sits approximately 35 miles northeast of La Jara. Campers frequently mention mountain views as a highlight, with one visitor describing "beautiful views of the mountains" from their campsite. Train noise affects some campgrounds near Alamosa, with several reviews mentioning train whistles as potential disruptions. The region's campgrounds vary in amenities, from primitive sites with no facilities to full-service RV parks with laundry and shower facilities. For those seeking unique accommodations, The Chicken Ranch offers glamping options including furnished bell tents along the river, providing a more comfortable outdoor experience.
Best Camping Sites Near La Jara, Colorado (208)
1. Alamosa KOA
19 ReviewsAlamosa, CO17 milesWebsite+1 (719) 589-9757"We showed up on a Saturday and there was rock painting and $2 ice cream for the kids right next to the playground."
"All wood burning fires are currently prohibited in Colorado, but there are fire pits for when they're not. I met a couple with an RV that make this camp a part of any trip this direction."
2. Sacred White Shell Mountain
56 ReviewsBlanca, CO26 milesWebsite"The Dyrt map says Mt Blanco road but Apple Maps says lake Como road. They both branch off highway 150."
"Campground Review: We chose this BLM campground because it is right outside of Great Sand Dunes National Park. There are several sites along Lake Como Road. "
3. Cool Sunshine RV Park
9 ReviewsAlamosa, CO14 milesWebsite+1 (719) 992-9105$40 - $52 / night
"Back in spaces are close to each other. Pull throughs have more room between spaces. There is a train track right next to park that a train blew horn startled me at 1:00 am on the second night."
"Great RV park in east walking distance to DT Alamosa. We walked to coffee place in the mornings and farmers market Saturday."
4. Zapata Falls Campground
70 ReviewsBlanca, CO32 milesWebsite+1 (719) 852-7074$20 / night
"This was our last night camping in Colorado and it was beautiful!"
"This area in Colorado is one of the most unique places I've seen in a while."
5. Base Camp Family Campground
8 ReviewsAlamosa, CO19 milesWebsite+1 (719) 589-2938"This is a well maintained no thrills RV park in the desert region of Colorado. Flat and level spaces that can accommodate any size RV. Large clean laundry facility and clean restroom and showers."
"Close to sand dunes and near by attractions. Alamosa has a Walmart and lots of restaurants."
6. Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
94 ReviewsGardner, CO41 milesWebsite+1 (877) 444-6777$20 - $80 / night
"It's a biologically diverse area in Southern Colorado, where high winds that blow through the Rockies deposit sand at the Southernmost tip . We made camping reservations about six months in advance."
"Access to dunes trails, and off road track. Dump station nearby visitor center with free air station. T-Mobile available at most sites, but good by the visitor center and primitive road access."
7. Aspen Glade (rio Grande National Forest, Co)
10 ReviewsAntonito, CO22 milesWebsite+1 (435) 245-6521$29 - $62 / night
"It’s a hidden gem of this part of Colorado. This campground has a loop by the Coñejos River and that is where we stayed. Campsite was big and they are nicely spread out."
"Nice little day use area right next to the river."
8. The Chicken Ranch
2 ReviewsAntonito, CO16 miles+1 (719) 201-1085$20 - $65 / night
"Red Lake hike was awesome and easy."
9. Great Sand Dunes Oasis
53 ReviewsGreat Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO37 milesWebsite+1 (719) 378-2222$25 - $169 / night
"It was our first time to tent camp in Colorado and it was great. Several sites to choose from. Some have views of the dunes, some are more secluded. Bathrooms were clean."
"It's slight hidden behind a bigger RV andodge campground. It was beautiful views from ANY tent site you got. It had bathroom n accessible showers if needed. Firewood. Friendly hosts and snacks."
10. The Chicken Ranch
1 ReviewAntonito, CO15 miles+1 (719) 201-1085"Set up your tent close to the rive, or pull your RV (Must be fully self contained. NO hookups! No size limit on rig) or sleep at the huge River Front site with furnished 13 x 13 bell tent."
Recent Camping Photos near La Jara, CO
298 Photos of 208 La Jara Campgrounds
Jennifer T.
The Chicken Ranch
liberty M.
The Chicken Ranch
Eric B.
Alamosa KOA
Julia C.
Base Camp Family Campground
Cassiana S.
Rio Grande National Forest Mogote Campground
Angelica B.
Aspen Glade (rio Grande National Forest, Co)
Ramble O.
Ramble at Great Sand Dunes National Park
Abigail R.
Ponderosa Campground
Abbey R.
Elk Creek Campground (rio Grande Nf)
Hayley K.
Rabbit Hole Ranch
Lyds F.
Sacred White Shell Mountain
Vicente G.
Blanca Basecamp
Recent Reviews near La Jara, CO
912 Reviews of 208 La Jara Campgrounds
JeanTravelerElk Creek Trail
Beautiful sites
Sites were neatly set up and spaced apart with campfire rings at each one.
johny R.
LegendEast Fork San Juan River, USFS Road 667 - Dispersed Camping
Logging operation
Close to the main highway. 1 bar Verizon signal. Full rv hook ups, pit toilets, and picnic tables. The drive in there is a large meadow that had several elk. A large logging operation is happening around the rv park, so it probably gets loud with machinery during the day. This is a seasonal rv park.
- johny R.Legend
Del Norte City Park
Tent camping
Right in town, not in the best area, but close off the main highway. Looks like a city park with tent camping only, no fires, charcoal grill only. Picnic tables at all the spots. Close to a river where people can surf the wave. Ok to swim in the river with a life jacket.
- johny R.Legend
Woods & River RV Park
Clean facility
Good Verizon lte. Mile off the main highway. The neighborhood you go through looks super run down but don’t let that get to you. The rv park is new and surprisingly nice. The crowd in April is mostly traveling workers with nice rigs. They have a big pavilion and a nice playground. The buildings are new construction. There are some spots by the river in a more secluded wooded area compared to the main Rv lot. That’s where I would recommend staying
- johny R.Legend
Ute Bluff Lodge
Close quarters
Right off highway. Good Verizon signal. Away from town, so not congested. Have full hook ups and picnic tables, but close together. Also have a lodge onsight. Con to this sight is being right off the highway, so there is road noise.
- johny R.Legend
Alpine Trails RV Park
Multiple options
Right off the main highway. 3 bars Verizon. Simple but clean facilities. Space is a little tight but there are multiple options they have domes and yurts you can rent to stay in. The lot is gravel and has electric water and sewer hookup. They have a laundry mat onsite and I saw a red fox go running through while I was there, also has great scenery for an off highway spot
- johny R.Legend
Down Home Lodge and Family RV Resort
Activities
Has good Verizon 5g. Right off the highway- easy access. This place is unique because it also has a hotel. So if your car camping this wouldn’t be a bad place to get a room and stretch out for a bit. The real advantage is that they have a lot of outdoor activities for older kids- volleyball court, tennis court. Lots of area to walk around. This place does not feel cramped. Overall this area has great views of the mountains.
- johny R.Legend
Sky Mountain Resort RV Park
Spacious feel
Good 5g cell Verizon. Directly off the highway- very easy access. Room for big rigs, full hook-ups. This place is set just off the highway and opens up to a big field, that sort of feels like a park. Lots of room. It is a rv park so your close to people but plenty of room to walk around and look the great view of the hills. Call ahead before coming- it didn’t look like the water was on, so maybe a seasonal place. Overall a nice place to stay.
Guide to La Jara
Dispersed camping sites near La Jara, Colorado offer options year-round at elevations ranging from 7,600 to 9,400 feet. The San Luis Valley experiences significant temperature variations with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter nights dropping well below freezing. October and May often feature fewer crowds while maintaining moderate daytime temperatures, making them ideal for camping in this high desert region.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: The Conejos River at Aspen Glade Campground provides excellent fishing access. "This campsite is not just for fly fisherman but for outdoor relaxation, biking, nature watching, hiking, trail running and that is just for starters! But Anglers from beginners to experts can ply the Conejos River for rainbows, brownies, cutthroat and cut bow trout," notes Bruce F.
Stargazing after dark: The minimal light pollution makes this region ideal for night sky viewing. "Just stayed one night to explore the area and do some stargazing at Great Sand Dunes and visit Zapota Falls. Bathrooms were very clean, staff was friendly, and they have wifi," writes Nicole C. about Alamosa KOA.
Waterfall hiking: The 3-mile drive to Zapata Falls requires some effort but rewards with cooling waters. "The waterfall is secreted inside a mountain crevase and you must walk the frigid mountain water in. Yes, your feet will go numb...but it is worth it," explains a visitor to the falls near Zapata Falls Campground.
What campers like
Mountain views: Many campsites offer direct sight lines to the Sangre de Cristo mountains. At Sacred White Shell Mountain, "There are several camping areas as you drive down the road. They are all on the left side. The camping areas have a wonderful view of Blanca Peak," according to a reviewer.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds provide more separation than others. At Base Camp Family Campground, "The campsite was clean and simple with a fire ring, picnic table, and trash can (tent site). The bath house with private restrooms and showers is a great relief after a long day."
River access: Direct river frontage adds value to several campgrounds. One camper at Aspen Glade notes, "The lower campground sits right on the Conejos River. Tons of shade under giant pine trees. Great fishing access to public waters."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require driving on rough roads. At Zapata Falls Campground, "The road to Zapata Falls is super rough but passenger cars shouldn't have any problem as long as you keep it slow," advises Gina J.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities. At Sacred White Shell Mountain, "No amenities at all so pack in and out. The area is about 20-25 minutes to the Great Sand Dunes National Park."
Weather variability: Expect sudden changes in conditions throughout the year. "We had snow and sunshine within a couple of hours. Love this campground!" remarks Ursula about her stay at Zapata Falls Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Alamosa KOA, "There is a fantastic playground with updated equipment, including an elevated tunnel system that ends with safety slides. When you have a small child who loves to play, especially a special needs child, this is a big deal!"
Bathroom cleanliness: Families often prioritize clean facilities. "Super clean showers and bathrooms! WiFi speed was amazing actually. Close to sand dunes and near by attractions," notes a visitor to Base Camp Family Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Children may enjoy seeing animals around camp. "Oh, and bring your Elmer Fudd accent. This place is overrun with rabbits. Not a bad animal as far as infestations go," writes Derek E. about the Alamosa KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many locations require some effort to level. At Cool Sunshine RV Park, "Dirt pad wasn't too bad to level our rig. Took a couple blocks to level it out. Site had a fire ring, and a picnic table with a trash can right at the site."
Hookup considerations: Research what utilities are available before arrival. "Back in spaces are close to each other. Pull throughs have more room between spaces," reports one camper about Cool Sunshine RV Park.
Cell service availability: Coverage varies greatly by location. At Sacred White Shell Mountain, "Cell reception was good, we had 2-3 bars 4G LTE on AT&T. We use hotspots for internet and have AT&T and Verizon and both worked well."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fishing spots in La Jara Creek?
What are the best fishing spots in La Jara Creek?
La Jara Creek offers excellent trout fishing opportunities in the San Luis Valley region. Bear Lake Campground (CO) provides access to pristine waters where you can see trout clearly in the crystal-clear lake. For stream fishing, the Rio Grande watershed near Park Creek Campground offers productive spots along creek banks. The best fishing spots feature deeper pools below small falls and runs where the water flows over rocky beds. Early morning and evening hours typically yield the best results, particularly during summer months. Bring light tackle and flies that mimic local insects for the best chance of success.
What camping permits are required for La Jara Canyon?
What camping permits are required for La Jara Canyon?
Camping permits for La Jara Canyon vary by specific location and campground. In most Rio Grande National Forest areas, including Mosca Campground, you'll need to pay a standard camping fee (typically $10-20 per night) at self-service pay stations. For backcountry camping, no special permits are generally required beyond standard forest use regulations, though group size limits may apply. If camping at Great Sand Dunes Oasis near the eastern side of the valley, reservations are recommended. Always check for fire restrictions, which are common during summer months. For extended stays in national forest areas, a 14-day limit typically applies within a 30-day period.
How do I get to La Jara Canyon in Colorado?
How do I get to La Jara Canyon in Colorado?
To reach La Jara Canyon in southern Colorado, you'll need to navigate through the San Luis Valley. From South Fork, Colorado, at the intersection of State Highway 149 and US 160, take US 160 west for approximately 8 miles and look for marked turnoffs. Highway Springs Campground is located along this route and can serve as a reference point. For areas near La Jara from the south, consider using Rio Costilla Park as a starting point. Most access roads are gravel or dirt with possible switchbacks, so a vehicle with decent clearance is recommended. Four-wheel drive may be necessary during wet conditions or winter months.
When is the best time of year to camp in La Jara?
When is the best time of year to camp in La Jara?
The optimal camping season in La Jara runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Zapata Falls Campground provides comfortable camping during summer months with stunning views. Fall camping in September and early October can be particularly rewarding at Blue Lake Campground when aspen trees display vibrant gold colors. Due to the elevation (approximately 8,000-11,500 feet), nights remain cool even in summer, and snow is possible into June at higher elevations. Spring camping (April-May) often encounters muddy conditions from snowmelt, while winter camping is only recommended for experienced cold-weather campers with appropriate gear.
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