Near Mosca, Colorado, RV campgrounds position visitors to explore Great Sand Dunes National Park at 7,500 to 8,200 feet elevation where weather shifts dramatically between seasons. Summer temperatures reach 80°F during days but drop to 40°F at night. Winter camping options remain limited with most facilities closing from November through April, though several campgrounds now offer extended shoulder season availability.
What to do
Stargazing sessions: Sand Dunes Swimming Pool & RV Park offers ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts with minimal light pollution. "We spotted plenty of deer and horses nearby" according to a visitor at Circle the Wagons RV Park, where open viewing areas provide excellent night sky visibility.
Fishing the Rio Grande: Access prime fishing spots directly from Woods & River RV Park where "the fishing was awesome. The Rio Grande flows by and so do the trout. When we were there, fishing was free every 1st weekend of the month," notes one camper.
Hot springs soaking: Multiple temperature options exist for thermal relaxation. "The Hot springs consist of a large outdoor pool and a couple of smaller pools. It's $15 to soak or half price if you camp there. The Greenhouse pool is 21+ for an additional $3," explains a visitor at Sand Dunes Recreation.
What campers like
Convenient access to attractions: Locations provide strategic positioning for regional exploration. "Easy spot over the border in Colorado. We were there as a jump off to head further West from North Texas area and made it well before dark to hook up," notes a camper at Circle the Wagons RV Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Many parks offer recreation beyond basic camping. "There is a basketball court, coin operated showers and laundry, water hook ups, and electric hookups," states a visitor at Sand Dunes Swimming Pool & RV Park, while another adds that "the pools are extremely kid friendly, and there are greenhouses with 21+ soaking and bar."
Mountain views and wildlife: Natural scenery adds value beyond basic accommodations. "We had a nice spot on the east side of the park. Tons to do if you like the outdoors in the Spanish Peaks region," describes one RVer at Circle the Wagons RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most facilities operate with limited schedules. "May 1 to Oct 31" represents the typical operating season for RV parks like Ute Bluff Lodge, with some extending slightly into November.
Variable site spacing: Site proximity differs significantly between parks. At Grandview Cabins and RV, campers report that the "RV park is well maintained with big areas for dogs to play," while other parks feature tighter configurations.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability vary widely. "The showers were hot and clean! Lovely views to wake up too!" reports a visitor at Sand Dunes Recreation, while another campground received criticism that "there is only one stall with a toilet that always seemed to be monopolized by someone taking a shower."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated children's areas. "Kids can ride bikes around the property. There is a basketball hoop and tether ball," notes a visitor at Chinook Cabins & RV Park.
Water recreation options: Swimming opportunities provide welcome relief during hot months. "What a cool place to cool off near the Sand Dunes. The main attraction of this place for families has to be the pool, which also has a basic restaurant with grill food that's reasonably priced," explains one camper at Sand Dunes Recreation.
Entertainment alternatives: Some parks include indoor facilities for inclement weather. "There's also a game room and a fun book exchange for guests," mentions a visitor at Circle the Wagons RV Park, providing options when outdoor activities become limited.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Some parks feature unusual utility layouts. At Woods & River RV Park, "Hookups are new but all seem to be placed too far up which requires you to pull your trailer to the end of the site to align hookups; otherwise you will need to run lengths of sewer and electric to connect."
Water temperature quirks: Thermal water creates unique situations in some parks. "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!" explains a visitor at Moon Valley Campground.
Laundry facilities: Limited washing options exist throughout the region. "Very large relaxing and clean laundry room ($1.50 each load washer and dryer)" mentions a camper at Woods & River RV Park, providing essential information for extended-stay travelers.
