Dispersed camping opportunities near Moffat, Colorado offer campers access to mountain terrain at elevations between 7,500-9,000 feet. The San Luis Valley region typically experiences dry conditions with temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night. Winter camping requires four-season gear due to nighttime temperatures that regularly drop below freezing from November through April.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: $15 for day use at Sand Dunes Recreation, where campers receive half-price admission. "The pools are artesian hot springs. The pools are extremely kid friendly, and there are greenhouses with 21+ soaking and bar," notes Elizabeth H.
Fishing: Multiple access points along the Rio Grande River at Woods & River RV Park provide trout fishing opportunities. "The fishing was awesome. The Rio Grande flows by and so do the trout. When we were there, fishing was free every 1st weekend of the month," reports Yvonne M.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or evening offers best chance to spot native species. "We spotted big horn sheep on the cliff behind us! The park also had a live singer entertain one night!" writes Melody M. about her experience at Bighorn Park.
What campers like
Overflow camping areas: Less crowded and often provide better scenery than standard sites. "We were in overflow camping and were treated to some amazing sunsets on the Sand Dunes. There are berms around the regular tent camping that limit your views," explains Andrew B.
Natural hot water: All water sources at Sand Dunes Recreation come from thermal springs. "All the water on site comes out hot which was great for our chilly visit yet may not be as nice in the hotter months," says Andrew B.
Mountain views: Several parks position sites to maximize scenery. "We had a great tent spot up on the hill with a great view of the valley behind. So it was a quiet tent spot to ourself, but 30 seconds down the hill for access to the amazing restroom and showers!" shares Lance H. about his stay at Royal Gorge RV Resort & Cabins.
What you should know
Train noise: Several parks in Alamosa are located near active rail lines. "Nice except for the trains. Nice people, nice place, very clean. Only issues are the active train tracks right next to the park and the narrow spaces," warns Michael M. about Cool Sunshine RV Park.
Limited bathroom facilities: Some parks maintain minimal facilities during busy periods. "There is only one stall with a toilet that always seemed to be monopolized by someone taking a shower," notes Katie H. about Woods & River RV Park.
Seasonal operations: Many rv parks near Moffat, Colorado close during winter months. Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground operates from "May 1 to November 1" according to their listing information, typical of higher elevation campgrounds in the area.
Elevation effects: Higher altitude campgrounds require appropriate gear. "High altitude means cool to cold nights. Gorgeous area and park!" advises Eddie B. about Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Select campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "The playground was very kid friendly and the giant jumping pillow was super fun!" reports a camper named mich about their experience at Royal Gorge RV Resort & Cabins.
River accessibility: Look for campsites with gentle water access. "Trail and gazebos for a very relaxing and restful stay! Very large relaxing and clean laundry room ($1.50 each load washer and dryer)," describes Ted A. about his month-long stay at Woods & River RV Park.
Pool facilities: Several Moffat area rv parks feature swimming options. "The main attraction of this place for families has to be the pool, which also has a basic restaurant with grill food that's reasonably priced," writes Daniel B.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Check location of utilities before parking. "Hookups are new but all seem to be placed too far up which requires you to pull your trailer to the end of the site to align hookups; otherwise you will need to run lengths of sewer and electric to connect," advises Ted A.
Leveling requirements: Bring blocks for uneven sites. "Our site was incredibly long but a bit skinny but did the trick. You can hear the river running almost everywhere in the park," shares Matt S. about his stay at Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground.
Satellite reception: Tree coverage varies significantly between parks. "There are pull through down center of park. No pool. But two horse shoes pits, corn holes boards, some game called GA-GA pit," explains Craig & Linda L. about Cool Sunshine RV Park.
