Dispersed camping sites near La Jara, Colorado offer options year-round at elevations ranging from 7,600 to 9,400 feet. The San Luis Valley experiences significant temperature variations with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter nights dropping well below freezing. October and May often feature fewer crowds while maintaining moderate daytime temperatures, making them ideal for camping in this high desert region.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: The Conejos River at Aspen Glade Campground provides excellent fishing access. "This campsite is not just for fly fisherman but for outdoor relaxation, biking, nature watching, hiking, trail running and that is just for starters! But Anglers from beginners to experts can ply the Conejos River for rainbows, brownies, cutthroat and cut bow trout," notes Bruce F.
Stargazing after dark: The minimal light pollution makes this region ideal for night sky viewing. "Just stayed one night to explore the area and do some stargazing at Great Sand Dunes and visit Zapota Falls. Bathrooms were very clean, staff was friendly, and they have wifi," writes Nicole C. about Alamosa KOA.
Waterfall hiking: The 3-mile drive to Zapata Falls requires some effort but rewards with cooling waters. "The waterfall is secreted inside a mountain crevase and you must walk the frigid mountain water in. Yes, your feet will go numb...but it is worth it," explains a visitor to the falls near Zapata Falls Campground.
What campers like
Mountain views: Many campsites offer direct sight lines to the Sangre de Cristo mountains. At Sacred White Shell Mountain, "There are several camping areas as you drive down the road. They are all on the left side. The camping areas have a wonderful view of Blanca Peak," according to a reviewer.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds provide more separation than others. At Base Camp Family Campground, "The campsite was clean and simple with a fire ring, picnic table, and trash can (tent site). The bath house with private restrooms and showers is a great relief after a long day."
River access: Direct river frontage adds value to several campgrounds. One camper at Aspen Glade notes, "The lower campground sits right on the Conejos River. Tons of shade under giant pine trees. Great fishing access to public waters."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require driving on rough roads. At Zapata Falls Campground, "The road to Zapata Falls is super rough but passenger cars shouldn't have any problem as long as you keep it slow," advises Gina J.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities. At Sacred White Shell Mountain, "No amenities at all so pack in and out. The area is about 20-25 minutes to the Great Sand Dunes National Park."
Weather variability: Expect sudden changes in conditions throughout the year. "We had snow and sunshine within a couple of hours. Love this campground!" remarks Ursula about her stay at Zapata Falls Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Alamosa KOA, "There is a fantastic playground with updated equipment, including an elevated tunnel system that ends with safety slides. When you have a small child who loves to play, especially a special needs child, this is a big deal!"
Bathroom cleanliness: Families often prioritize clean facilities. "Super clean showers and bathrooms! WiFi speed was amazing actually. Close to sand dunes and near by attractions," notes a visitor to Base Camp Family Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Children may enjoy seeing animals around camp. "Oh, and bring your Elmer Fudd accent. This place is overrun with rabbits. Not a bad animal as far as infestations go," writes Derek E. about the Alamosa KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many locations require some effort to level. At Cool Sunshine RV Park, "Dirt pad wasn't too bad to level our rig. Took a couple blocks to level it out. Site had a fire ring, and a picnic table with a trash can right at the site."
Hookup considerations: Research what utilities are available before arrival. "Back in spaces are close to each other. Pull throughs have more room between spaces," reports one camper about Cool Sunshine RV Park.
Cell service availability: Coverage varies greatly by location. At Sacred White Shell Mountain, "Cell reception was good, we had 2-3 bars 4G LTE on AT&T. We use hotspots for internet and have AT&T and Verizon and both worked well."
