Located in Colorado's San Luis Valley, Mosca sits at approximately 7,500 feet elevation within easy reach of Great Sand Dunes National Park. The area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations, with summer days reaching the 80s and nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s. Several campgrounds in the region offer fire pits with raised metal rings to manage safety during windy conditions common to this high-desert environment.
What to do
Hiking at the dunes: Just minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park, where visitors can explore unique terrain. "Plenty of spaces when we arrived. Few RV sites that had full hookups and then gravel road to a lot more primitive spots rocky but nice. Great views in the mountains and can see the Great Sand Dunes," notes a camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis.
Hot springs soaking: Multiple hot springs provide relaxation after outdoor activities. A guest at Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust shares, "Came for the daily soak - stayed for the camping... The camp sites were simple but great and you have total access to all hot springs, bathrooms, showers, sauna, AND a communal outdoor kitchen."
Stargazing: The area's minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "The star gazing is amazing as well! Will come back again," reports a visitor to the UFO Watchtower, highlighting the region's reputation for astronomical observation.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. At Great Sand Dunes Oasis, one visitor noted, "Bathrooms were fantastic. Showers were some of the best I've seen with a private dressing area and hooks/shelves to put your dry clothes on. There is a dishwashing station also."
Mountain views: The surrounding mountain ranges provide scenic backdrops for camping. "Beautiful view of the mountains. We stayed in the RV lot for 1 night. You can rent sand boards and sleds here if the weather is right," comments a camper about their experience.
Proximity to attractions: Sites position visitors near key destinations without long drives. "Super close to the dunes - you get a great view of them from the campground. There's also a small playground for kids. Staff was super friendly and helpful!" reports a visitor to Great Sand Dunes Oasis.
What you should know
Weather variability: Prepare for rapid temperature changes and afternoon wind. "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. Very dusty and dry air, but very peaceful!" advises a camper at UFO Watchtower.
Limited services: Some areas have restricted cell coverage and few nearby stores. "There aren't a lot of nearby towns that offer larger grocery stores, Crestone has a small co-op grocery as does Buena Vista, so if you are planning on cooking for yourself, come prepared," notes a visitor to Joyful Journey Hot Springs.
Seasonal availability: Most glamping sites near Mosca, Colorado operate from spring through fall only. "In between mountains, tall pines and rivers, does camping get any better? Close to everything you need but you will feel away from it all," shares a camper at Cutty's Resort - Hayden Creek, which operates May through early October.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for sites with recreational facilities for varied age groups. "We had a great time. Our family and another reserved two sites next to each other. The pools on site were perfect for the kids. On site mini golf was a blast," shares a camper about Cutty's Resort.
Accessibility considerations: Some sites offer easier access to attractions for younger visitors. A camper at Alamosa KOA notes, "This KOA has a nice sized heated, outdoor pool with reasonable hours, closing around 8:00 PM. The pool temperature was warm enough for even the adults to slip right into it. There is also a fantastic playground with updated equipment."
Meal planning: Some locations include food service while others require self-sufficiency. "This RV site was quaint with a fantastic location, but the store and the bathrooms were closed and we never could find the dumpster! Our view was incredible!" reports a visitor, highlighting the need to plan for food and supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check campground reviews for information on site grading before arrival. "The roads are really rocky. The views are really pretty. It was nice to find a campsite with a shower after 2 nights without one," notes an RVer at Great Sand Dunes Oasis.
Hookup availability: Confirm utility connections match your needs when booking. "Lots are close together. The RV sites were leveled very well, and they have both 30-amp and 50-amp sites available," shares a visitor about their experience.
Accessibility: Some areas have dirt or gravel access roads that may be challenging for larger rigs. "Road into the campground was dirt and a bit washboard. Our cons were simply that the sites were close-no real privacy. Our particular site was pretty unlevel but that's not the campground's fault," advises a camper at Joyful Journey Hot Springs.
