Primitive camping near Moffat, Colorado offers solitude at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,000 feet in the northern San Luis Valley. Summer temperatures fluctuate dramatically, often dropping 30-40 degrees at night compared to daytime highs. Road conditions deteriorate quickly after rain, particularly on forest service roads north of Crestone where multiple dispersed sites are concentrated.
What to do
Hiking at Willow Creek Trail: Access this trailhead directly from dispersed camping sites along the forest road. "Approx 15 or so dispersed camp sites along the forest road up to the parking lot for Willow Lake trail. Easy access to sites, easy access to trail head. Restrooms also available at trailhead," notes a camper at Willow Creek Trail.
Mountain wildlife viewing: The forest roads north of Moffat offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. "A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains," reports a visitor to Dispersed Sand Area 1.
Photography at sunrise: Early mornings provide ideal light for photography across the valley. "The sunrise on the dunes is fantastic and the stars are even better. I hiked a few miles in barefoot starting at 4 ending at 7 pm," shares a camper at the Dunefield.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Several areas feature sites near flowing water. "We stayed in the first pull out to the left of the road... No hookups but no fee. All was well until the wind came up suddenly and we were in a brief windstorm with sand all in our trailer," reports a camper at Sacred White Shell Mountain.
Private, established sites: Many dispersed areas offer good separation between campsites. "There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights," mentions a visitor to Dispersed Sand Area 1.
Easy access to national parks: Primitive camping provides affordable alternatives to crowded park campgrounds. "A good amount of dispersed sites on the mountain side near great sand dunes national park! No amenities so be prepared," writes a camper at Sacred White Shell Mountain.
What you should know
Weather changes quickly: Mountain conditions can shift dramatically. "The weather was great until the last few days when the high was almost 90. Small rain events happen frequently in the afternoon, but they never last long," explains a visitor at Sacred White Shell Mountain.
Cell service varies by location: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the region. "Several good spots with fire pits right near the trailhead. A few bugs in late August but nothing terrible. Verizon cell service was between 1 and 3 bars LTE depending on your line of sight to the tower," reports a camper at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead.
Route planning matters: GPS directions sometimes lead through private property. "Do not route via Apple Maps, it will try to take you through a private road. Don't follow the 'major trail' signs, just find the side road this spot is on and drive up and you'll find it," advises a camper at Cotton Creek Trailhead.
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Depending on season, biting insects can be problematic. "Loved hearing the creek roaring in the background and feeling the sun on my skin surrounded by cactus - an I in Texas!?" shares a camper at Dispersed Sand Area 1, while others consistently mention mosquito issues during summer months.
Plan for temperature swings: Pack accordingly for dramatic day-to-night changes. "The temp was cool, but not cold—great for early September!" notes a visitor to Crestone Needle Trail.
Find flat sites for tents: Look for established sites with level ground. "Quite a few flat tent spots right by the creek although there are boulders from preventing you from driving too far into the woods. The water was flowing well in July and we loved the sound overnight," reports a camper at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp.
Tips from RVers
Watch site access limitations: Many roads become challenging for larger rigs. "We did see a decent size Airstream make it to the fourth pullout area, but we didn't feel comfortable taking our 30 ft travel trailer past the second section," shares a camper at Sacred White Shell Mountain.
Drive speeds matter: Slow and steady navigation prevents damage. "You will have to travel like 5-10mph for the last like mile. High clearance not required," advises a visitor to Cotton Creek Trailhead.
Water conservation essential: No water sources exist at most sites. "No amenities at all so pack in and out. The area is about 20-25 minutes to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. We were able to get potable water there (at the dump station)," recommends a camper at Sacred White Shell Mountain.
