The San Luis Valley surrounding Mosca, Colorado sits at approximately 7,500 feet elevation and experiences dramatic temperature swings between day and night. This high desert climate creates challenging camping conditions with limited shade, frequent high winds, and very low humidity. Seasonal considerations are critical when planning trips to camping spots near Mosca, Colorado, as summer days can exceed 85°F while nights drop into the 40s.
What to do
Hike the dunes in proper footwear: At Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park, campers who venture onto the dunes need appropriate protection. "Mid-summer, I would also encourage you not to wear open toe sandals, as the sand gets blistering hot. Reported summer temps are between 80-140 degrees," shares one visitor who learned this lesson firsthand.
Visit Zapata Falls: Located just 3 miles up a rough road from Zapata Falls Campground, this waterfall requires wading through cold mountain water. "Pack your sandals or water shoes. 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...a 30ft cascade at 9400 foot elevation," notes a camper who made the trek.
UFO watching: The UFO Watchtower offers a unique experience with camping available on-site. "Super fun and kooky place and the people who run it are very friendly. We were the only ones here Halloween weekend so it was very quiet and peaceful most of the time," reported one camper. The site includes viewing platforms and alien-themed gardens.
Hot springs soaking: Sand Dunes Recreation offers artesian hot springs pools with both family and adult sections. "The Greenhouse pool is 21+ for an additional $3. The Greenhouse is lush with plants and not as crowded as the main pool," notes a visitor who appreciated the quieter soaking option.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The dark sky conditions around Sacred White Shell Mountain create perfect stargazing conditions. "Dark skies there. You can see the Milky Way with the naked eye," reports one camper who spent a week in the area. This free dispersed camping area sits on BLM land approximately 20-25 minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Mosca Campground offer chances to see migratory birds and local wildlife. "We came and camped here for the crane festival. We absolutely loved the state park's diverse ecosystems and camping here," notes one visitor who timed their trip specifically for wildlife observation.
Sunrise views: Multiple campsites offer exceptional sunrise views. "The views at this campground cannot be beat! Mountains in all directions, lake front, and incredible sunsets over the Great Sand Dunes," shares a camper at Mosca Campground. Position your tent facing east for the best morning views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
Hot spring pools: At Sand Dunes Recreation, the hot spring pools are a major draw. "We love this place. Our family has been coming here over the years, and it's still a favorite. The pools are artesian hot springs. The pools are extremely kid friendly, and there are greenhouses with 21+ soaking and bar," explains a regular visitor.
What you should know
Permits for wildlife areas: Mosca Campground requires specific permits. "We came here thinking it was a converted BLM land on the off season but were corrected by a knock on the door in the morning to inform us that we need a hunting or fishing permit to stay here," warns a camper who was surprised by this requirement. Colorado Wildlife Area passes cost approximately $10 per person.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves rough roads. "The road to Zapata Falls is super rough but passenger cars shouldn't have any problem as long as you keep it slow," advises one visitor. Allow extra travel time when accessing remote camping areas.
Mosquito populations: July brings intense mosquito activity to many camping areas. "July was mosquito madness. Honestly I am from the country and can deal with bugs, but being dived bombed by 30 mosquitos (not exagerrating) is intense," reports a camper at Pinon Flats. Consider camping in spring or fall to avoid peak mosquito season.
Wind conditions: The valley experiences strong, unpredictable winds. "The wind was very strong in June, if you use a canopy, try to use some strap tiedowns so your canopy frame does not bend," suggests a visitor at UFO Watchtower. Secure tents well and consider wind breaks when selecting your site.
Tips for camping with families
Sand toys essential: When camping near the dunes, bring sand toys and sleds. "It had been raining in the afternoons which cooled things down nicely and kept the sand firm in the morning while we hiked. By the time we got to the top it was dried out enough to board or sled down which was a blast," notes a Pinon Flats camper.
Kid-friendly pool options: Great Sand Dunes Oasis offers amenities for families. "There's also a small playground for kids. Staff was super friendly and helpful!" mentions a visitor who appreciated the family-oriented features at this campground just outside the national park.
Morning wildlife walks: Plan early morning walks for the best wildlife viewing. "We woke up early and hiked along the wetlands nature trails, catching an amazing sunrise with panoramic views over the lake, Great Sand Dunes and surrounding mountains," shares a visitor to Mosca Campground who combined wildlife watching with sunrise viewing.
Prepare for temperature swings: Pack layers for children as temperatures change dramatically. "We bundled up" at night despite warm daytime temperatures, notes a camper. Temperature drops of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common in this high desert environment.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are available at select campgrounds. "Mosca campground; this is a Colorado state wildlife area(SWA). The park still has the paved loops with mostly gravel, some paved pull offs and drive-through's with electric pedestals, but the water has been turned off," reports an RVer who stayed there in September.
Level sites: Look for sites that don't require extensive leveling. At Cool Sunshine RV Park, "Green grass and leveled parking" make setup easier, according to a recent visitor. This park in Alamosa provides a convenient base for exploring the region.
Hot water surprises: Be aware of hot water systems at some campgrounds. "One funny thing is if you have an rv and hook up to the water, it is fed from the hot springs so the water is always very warm. Didn't get to test out our hot water heater at this location!" shares an RV owner at Sand Dunes Recreation.
Noise considerations: Some parks have unexpected noise sources. "Beautiful campground with level sites. Come prepared, it is in the middle of downtown so a lot of traffic noise of loud cars racing down the road and it is right next to the railroad tracks. The train whistle is deafening," warns an RVer at Cool Sunshine RV Park.
