Primitive tent camping areas near Moffat, Colorado offer access to high-altitude valleys and deserts at elevations between 7,500-8,500 feet. The region experiences significant temperature swings with overnight lows frequently dropping below 45°F even in summer months. The San Luis Valley creates a rain shadow effect, resulting in relatively dry conditions throughout the camping season from May through October.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: At Medano Lake Backpackers Camp, visitors tackle a challenging uphill trek with significant rewards. "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. The top is at around 10,500 feet," notes Jeana P. The trail offers wildlife viewing opportunities, including bears, deer, marmots, beavers and trout.
Wildlife observation: Multiple campgrounds offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Ventana Arch Dispersed Camp, the quiet setting creates ideal conditions for spotting native species. One camper reports the area is "the quietest campsite I've ever been to. Literally zero sounds, not even bugs!" This exceptional stillness increases your chances of observing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Water recreation: Arkansas River access points provide kayaking and fishing opportunities within 45 minutes of Moffat. "Vallie Bridge Campground has 16 basic, walk-in tent sites with a tent pad, fire grill and picnic table," explains one reviewer. "The Arkansas River runs along side the campground and makes the complete experience welcome."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The Dunefield at Great Sand Dunes National Park offers exceptional stargazing conditions. One visitor explains, "We spent four days in Great Sand Dunes in August. The Dunefield was one of the most serene and unique camping experiences we have had." Another camper reports, "The lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts."
Solitude in desert settings: Rabbit Hole Ranch provides a remote desert camping experience. "My roommate and I reserved two nights at this spot on a whim the day before we went there. Our expectations were so far exceeded when we arrived. The ranch is super out of the way from many buildings or even many other people for that matter," writes Lissa L.
Unique terrain exploration: The diverse landscapes surrounding Moffat create varied camping experiences. One camper at Medano Lake describes how "the top to Mt. Herard doesn't sound like a long distance, but there is bouldering and scrambling involved and will take longer than you think." At Rabbit Hole Ranch, campers appreciate how "the uneven ground makes walking around the landscape seem like an optical illusion."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Campers should prepare for extreme temperature fluctuations. At Dispersed Sand Area 1, a camper reports: "Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains. The only negative was the mosquitos. They are horrendous." Another reviewer confirms: "Great spots available- plenty of room for multiple campsites along the road. Great views! - BUT mosquitoes were absolutely awful so be prepared (mid July)."
Water availability: Most tent camping sites near Moffat require carrying in all water supplies. The Dunefield requires particular planning: "Don't forget to bring way more water than you think you'll need, and wear sturdy shoes for hiking on the sand," advises one experienced camper. Another notes, "In total we brought about a gallon of water each, and by the time we hiked out the next morning we were down to the last couple of ounces."
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires high-clearance vehicles. One camper at Dispersed Sand Area 1 explains: "Easy drive, can get a little bumpy but nothing an all wheel drive can't handle." At Ventana Arch Camp, a visitor notes, "Road a little rough but nothing an Outback can't handle."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra layers: Temperature fluctuations affect children more severely than adults. At Great Sand Dunes Dispersed, campers should bring suitable clothing: "There are three dispersed sites listed along this road with the first being flat and open, the second being slightly uphill and fairly open, and the third being higher uphill and far more private," explains one reviewer who advises, "Be prepared with layers for both hot and cold desert conditions."
Consider driving distance: When tent camping with children near Moffat, select sites based on proximity to activities. Dispersed Sand Area 1 offers a strategic location: "Found this spot on our way out from the sand dunes and it was perfect! Quiet and secluded so can't complain. Right down from the trailhead," notes Nora S.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds provide natural educational experiences for children. One camper describes the Medano Lake area: "We saw all kinds of wildlife, including 2 bears. Be sure to hang your food a good distance away at night or when you aren't around! Woke up to deer, saw plenty of little marmots, the local beaver, and lots of trout in the lake!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection criteria: For RV camping near Moffat, carefully evaluate site terrain. At AHRA Canyon Trading Post Recreation Site, one RVer notes: "Quick stop. Very clean. Self pay station if you do not have state park pass. Vault restrooms. No trash on site, pack in pack out." The site includes a boat ramp but limited RV-specific amenities.
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites present leveling difficulties. One RVer at Great Sand Dunes Dispersed explains: "We were pretty disappointed in the quality of the established areas. They were very difficult to level our smallish travel trailer and perhaps that is the problem. We were one of very few travel trailers on this road."
Wind protection: RVs in this region should seek protection from persistent winds. Vallie Bridge Campground campers report: "Amazing to be right on the river but camp sites are pretty close to one another. Not much sun cover and super windy." Look for natural windbreaks when selecting sites for larger vehicles.
