Best Tent Camping near Moffat, CO

Public lands surrounding Moffat, Colorado provide diverse tent camping options, from established campgrounds to backcountry sites. The Dunefield at Great Sand Dunes National Park, located 30 miles southeast of Moffat, offers unique tent-only backcountry camping with free permits available at the visitor center. Rabbit Hole Ranch, a private tent campground 35 miles south, features basic tent sites with fire pits. Hermit Pass OHV area provides free dispersed tent camping on public land with primitive conditions and mountain views. Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camping on BLM land offers additional tent camping opportunities with established fire rings.

Most tent campsites in the region require self-sufficiency, as amenities are minimal. The Dunefield requires hikers to carry all supplies, including water, across sand dunes to reach legal camping areas beyond the first ridge. Tent campers should bring sufficient water, as most sites lack potable sources. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer months, particularly in dispersed areas. Vault toilets are available at some established campgrounds like Vallie Bridge, but most primitive tent sites have no facilities. Weather conditions vary dramatically, with strong winds common near the sand dunes and freezing overnight temperatures possible even in early summer. High-clearance vehicles are necessary to access many of the more remote tent camping areas.

Tent campers frequently note the exceptional stargazing opportunities throughout the region. According to reviews, the Dunefield provides remarkable solitude: "Once we crossed over the day use area, it was like being in another world. We didn't see another soul, and the only noise all night came from the sand blowing in the wind around our tent." The lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. At Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camping, one visitor reported: "The temperature almost went down to freezing at night in early June, so be prepared with layers for both hot and cold desert conditions." Wildlife sightings are common, with campers reporting everything from deer and elk to foxes and various bird species.

Best Tent Sites Near Moffat, Colorado (30)

    1. Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge

    3 Reviews
    Moffat, CO
    4 miles
    Website

    "The Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for sports enthusiasts."

    "The Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for sports enthusiasts."

    2. Dispersed Sand Area 1

    5 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    "Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains. The only negative was the mosquitos. They are horrendous."

    "Loved hearing the creek roaring in the background and feeling the sun on my skin surrounded by cactus - an I in Texas!?"

    3. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    9 Reviews
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "The hike in over the dune to a camp site with all your gear is frankly not easy, but it's short distance so it's manageable."

    "If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent."

    4. Rabbit Hole Ranch

    12 Reviews
    Mosca, CO
    29 miles
    +1 (907) 885-5556

    $30 - $44 / night

    "I expected it to be a place to just sleep after exploring nearby areas, boy was I wrong!"

    "Pros:

    -Amazing views

    -Feeling of solitude

    -Firewood for sale

    -Friendly interactions with who I assume was the property owner

    -Porta-potty and trash can near the entrance

    Cons:

    -Not RHR"

    5. Hermit Pass OHV

    1 Review
    Westcliffe, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    6. Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Blanca, CO
    37 miles

    "We kept driving until we found a spot that was both uphill and private, which definitely requires a vehicle with some height to it like an SUV rather than a sedan."

    "Was surprised how many other campers were enjoying nearby sites. Plenty of room to enjoy site without feeling crowded. A nice site, enjoyed evening fire."

    7. Medano Lake Backpackers Camp — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    1 Review
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    25 miles
    Website

    "For backpackers only - this may seem like a short distance from the trailhead, but it is a steep incline the entire way up. With packs, it took us close to 5 hours with short breaks."

    8. AHRA Canyon Trading Post Recreation Site

    1 Review
    Cotopaxi, CO
    27 miles
    Website

    $4 - $10 / night

    "Vault restrooms. No trash on site, pack in pack out. Ramp to launch rafts, kayaks..."

    9. Vallie Bridge Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Coaldale, CO
    28 miles
    +1 (719) 539-7289

    $28 / night

    "Amazing to be right on the river but camp sites are pretty close to one another. Not much sun cover (camp map through state shows which sites have shade) and super windy. 360 views. So beautiful."

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Showing results 1-10 of 30 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Moffat, CO

867 Reviews of 30 Moffat Campgrounds



Guide to Moffat

Tent camping near Moffat, Colorado offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area, with various options for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tips for tent camping near Moffat

  • Dispersed Sand Area 1 provides a serene environment with plenty of space to set up your tent, allowing for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
  • Rabbit Hole Ranch features large, spread-out campsites that enhance the feeling of solitude, making it a great choice for those seeking a quiet getaway.
  • Medano Lake Backpackers Camp is ideal for adventurous campers willing to hike in, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with wildlife.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • At Vallie Bridge Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, you can enjoy fishing and rafting along the Arkansas River, making it a perfect spot for water sports enthusiasts.
  • Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and horseback riding, catering to those looking for an active camping experience.
  • For stunning mountain views and wildlife sightings, Hermit Pass OHV is a great location, although be prepared for a rough road to access the area.

Campground amenities to enhance your stay

  • Brewery Creek Guard Station provides a rustic experience with the option to reserve a cabin or pitch a tent, perfect for those who want a bit of comfort while still enjoying the outdoors.
  • AHRA Canyon Trading Post Recreation Site features clean facilities with vault restrooms and a self-pay station, ensuring a hassle-free camping experience.
  • Big Springs Campground offers basic amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, making it a convenient choice for families looking to enjoy a classic camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Moffat, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Moffat, CO is Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge with a 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Moffat, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near Moffat, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.