The San Luis Valley spans across south-central Colorado with elevations around 7,500 feet, creating a high desert climate with dramatic temperature variations. La Jara sits at the southern end of the valley, where camping options range from established campgrounds to rustic yurt accommodations. Summer temperatures typically reach 80°F during the day but can drop below 40°F at night, even in July.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The UFO Watchtower in Hooper offers camping with exceptional night sky viewing. "Beautiful night sky. The owners are very interesting and friendly people," notes Jen S. This unique attraction is just 30 minutes from Alamosa KOA.
River access camping: The Chicken Ranch provides sites along the water. "Stayed right on the water. Host was knowledgeable of area and things to do. Red Lake hike was awesome and easy," reports Jennifer T. The property features both tent sites and glamping options within a 45-minute drive from La Jara.
Sand dune exploration: Great Sand Dunes National Park is accessible from several nearby campgrounds. "Great Sand Dunes National Park is only 30 minutes away. Perfect central location for several day trips," mentions Renee W. Many campers use these sites as a base for exploring the massive dunes.
What campers like
Off-grid relaxation: The San Luis Valley offers numerous quiet camping spots away from crowds. At Great Sand Dunes Oasis, campers appreciate the solitude. "It was nice to find a campsite with a shower after 2 nights without one. The views are really pretty," writes Chris P.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards despite remote locations. "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," reports Myndi C. about Great Sand Dunes Oasis.
Wildlife viewing: The area's open landscape provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. Derek E. noted about Alamosa KOA: "Oh, and bring your Elmer Fudd accent. This place is overrun with rabbits. Not a bad animal as far as infestations go."
What you should know
Limited shade availability: Many San Luis Valley camping areas have minimal tree coverage. At Lake Fork Campground, Austin T. describes it as "a large campsite with enough spots for 3 to 4 RVs plus several tenting spots less than 10' from the water."
Weather variability: The valley experiences significant temperature swings and afternoon wind. "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," advises Rocky F. about camping at UFO Watchtower.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate May through September or October. Abby M. reports, "The showers were still closed at the end of May during my stay" at Lake Fork Campground, indicating early season limitations at some facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific features for children. At Alamosa KOA, Kari T. highlights, "This KOA has a nice sized heated, outdoor pool with reasonable hours, closing around 8:00 PM. There is also a fantastic playground with updated equipment, including an elevated tunnel system that ends with safety slides."
Activity planning: Combining camping with day trips works well for families. "We made our reservation for our site in March, a mere three months before our mid-week, June 7 arrival," notes Kari T., suggesting advance booking for summer stays.
Food options: Some glamping experiences in La Jara, Colorado include convenient dining. Eric B. shares about Alamosa KOA: "We showed up on a Saturday and there was rock painting and $2 ice cream for the kids right next to the playground. If you want a quieter site however be sure to request something AWAY from the playground!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose level sites carefully, especially for larger rigs. Robert E. notes about Columbine Campground: "Some sites are short, very few are level, some have a steep slope. The loop to the left side near the host is more level and can handle bigger RVs but overall this is not a big rig campground."
Hookup availability: Verify what utilities are available before arriving. "The RV sites were leveled very well, and they have both 30-amp and 50-amp sites available," reports Kari T. about Alamosa KOA.
Road conditions: Access to some glamping spots near La Jara requires careful driving. "Long and slightly rough dirt road entry. If it rains or storms you'll have a tough time getting out with a camper if you don't have a 4x4," warns Tyler S. about Cebolla Mesa Campground.
