Camping near La Veta, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax under the stars, this area has something for everyone.
What to do:
- Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Pinon Flats Campground, you can easily hike to the creek and the east face of the dunes within 15-30 minutes. One camper mentioned, "From the campground, you can climb the dunes as far up as you want to."
- Exploring Waterfalls: Visit Zapata Falls Campground for a short hike to the falls. One reviewer said, "You can also hike further up to the lake," making it a great spot for those who love nature.
- Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies. A camper at Sacred White Shell Mountain noted, "What a fantastic stop!! You don't get this at KOA!!" This makes it a perfect place for stargazers.
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views. At Pinon Campground, one visitor said, "We love to come here to get great views of the Spanish Peaks."
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Great Sand Dunes Oasis, are praised for their cleanliness. A reviewer mentioned, "The bath house was clean," which is always a plus.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peacefulness of the sites. One happy camper at Zapata Falls Campground said, "Nice sites tucked between piñon trees and fairly quiet."
What you should know:
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Pinon Flats Campground warned, "In July, there were a ton of mosquitoes everywhere except over the sand."
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Zapata Falls Campground, may have locked bathrooms or no hosts on site. One reviewer noted, "Bathrooms were locked and no host on site today maybe due to holiday."
- Reservations Needed: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned, "You do have to reserve online now in advance."
Tips for camping with families:
- Bring Firewood: Some campgrounds, like Zapata Falls Campground, have a small camp store for essentials, but it’s good to bring your own firewood. One family shared, "Glad we brought firewood and had enough to share with neighbors."
- Plan for Shade: If you're camping in the summer, be aware that some sites have limited shade. A camper at Pinon Flats Campground noted, "Oh and you'll only get shade in the late afternoon."
- Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds allow pets, so you can bring your furry friends along. A reviewer at Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned, "Pets allowed," making it a great choice for families with dogs.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Some sites may be tight for larger RVs. A visitor at Pinon Campground mentioned, "Although some spots are tight, the quiet, peaceful beauty made all the difference."
- Full Hookups Available: Campgrounds like Great Sand Dunes Oasis offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One camper said, "Our RV spot had full hookups but the sites were so closely spaced."
- Be Mindful of Lighting: If you want to enjoy the night sky, be considerate of your neighbors' lights. A camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis expressed, "I wish there was a rule of no outside lights at night."
Camping near La Veta, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and RVers alike.