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Best Campgrounds near La Jara, CO

877 Reviews

La Jara, Colorado and the surrounding San Luis Valley provide camping options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive sites. Within reasonable driving distance, campers can access establishments like Alamosa KOA and Cool Sunshine RV Park which offer full amenities including electric hookups, water, and shower facilities. The region also features more rustic experiences at locations such as Zapata Falls Campground near Mosca and Sacred White Shell Mountain, which offers free dispersed camping on public lands. RV enthusiasts will find multiple sites with hookups, while tent campers have options in both established campgrounds and more remote areas.

Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with many sites operating only from late spring through early fall. The Pinon Flats Campground in Great Sand Dunes National Park remains popular but often requires reservations during peak summer months. Aspen Glade Campground in Rio Grande National Forest operates from May to September, typical of higher-elevation sites in the region. Winter access becomes limited as many campgrounds close and unpaved roads may become impassable. According to a reviewer, "This area is a must visit! The Great Sand Dunes National park is unique and unlike any other."

Proximity to natural features drives campground popularity in the region. Several visitors noted the value of staying near Great Sand Dunes National Park, which sits approximately 35 miles northeast of La Jara. Campers frequently mention mountain views as a highlight, with one visitor describing "beautiful views of the mountains" from their campsite. Train noise affects some campgrounds near Alamosa, with several reviews mentioning train whistles as potential disruptions. The region's campgrounds vary in amenities, from primitive sites with no facilities to full-service RV parks with laundry and shower facilities. For those seeking unique accommodations, The Chicken Ranch offers glamping options including furnished bell tents along the river, providing a more comfortable outdoor experience.

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Best Camping Sites Near La Jara, Colorado (201)

    1. Alamosa KOA

    19 Reviews
    Alamosa, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 589-9757

    "We showed up on a Saturday and there was rock painting and $2 ice cream for the kids right next to the playground."

    "All wood burning fires are currently prohibited in Colorado, but there are fire pits for when they're not. I met a couple with an RV that make this camp a part of any trip this direction."

    2. Sacred White Shell Mountain

    54 Reviews
    Blanca, CO
    26 miles
    Website

    "The Dyrt map says Mt Blanco road but Apple Maps says lake Como road. They both branch off highway 150."

    "Campground Review: We chose this BLM campground because it is right outside of Great Sand Dunes National Park.  There are several sites along Lake Como Road. "

    3. Cool Sunshine RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Alamosa, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 992-9105

    $40 - $52 / night

    "Back in spaces are close to each other. Pull throughs have more room between spaces. There is a train track right next to park that a train blew horn startled me at 1:00 am on the second night."

    "Great RV park in east walking distance to DT Alamosa. We walked to coffee place in the mornings and farmers market Saturday."

    4. Zapata Falls Campground

    70 Reviews
    Blanca, CO
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 852-7074

    $20 / night

    "This was our last night camping in Colorado and it was beautiful!"

    "This area in Colorado is one of the most unique places I've seen in a while."

    5. Base Camp Family Campground

    8 Reviews
    Alamosa, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 589-2938

    "This is a well maintained no thrills RV park in the desert region of Colorado. Flat and level spaces that can accommodate any size RV. Large clean laundry facility and clean restroom and showers."

    "Close to sand dunes and near by attractions. Alamosa has a Walmart and lots of restaurants."

    6. Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    93 Reviews
    Gardner, CO
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $20 - $80 / night

    "It's a biologically diverse area in Southern Colorado, where high winds that blow through the Rockies deposit sand at the Southernmost tip . We made camping reservations about six months in advance."

    "Access to dunes trails, and off road track. Dump station nearby visitor center with free air station. T-Mobile available at most sites, but good by the visitor center and primitive road access."

    7. Aspen Glade (rio Grande National Forest, Co)

    9 Reviews
    Antonito, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 245-6521

    $29 - $62 / night

    "It’s a hidden gem of this part of Colorado. This campground has a loop by the Coñejos River and that is where we stayed. Campsite was big and they are nicely spread out."

    "Nice little day use area right next to the river."

    8. The Chicken Ranch

    2 Reviews
    Antonito, CO
    16 miles
    +1 (719) 201-1085

    $20 - $65 / night

    "Red Lake hike was awesome and easy."

    9. Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    54 Reviews
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-2222

    $25 - $169 / night

    "It was our first time to tent camp in Colorado and it was great. Several sites to choose from. Some have views of the dunes, some are more secluded. Bathrooms were clean."

    "It's slight hidden behind a bigger RV andodge campground. It was beautiful views from ANY tent site you got. It had bathroom n accessible showers if needed. Firewood. Friendly hosts and snacks."

    10. The Chicken Ranch

    1 Review
    Antonito, CO
    15 miles
    +1 (719) 201-1085

    "Set up your tent close to the rive, or pull your RV (Must be fully self contained. NO hookups! No size limit on rig) or sleep at the huge River Front site with furnished 13 x 13 bell tent."

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Recent Camping Photos near La Jara, CO

302 Photos of 201 La Jara Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near La Jara, CO

877 Reviews of 201 La Jara Campgrounds

  • Robert F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Questa Lodge & RV Resort

    Great location

    Everything was great here. Paulie went out of his way to make my stay comfortable and pleasant. Great guy to talk with.
    Thank you.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Red River RV

    Love It Second Visit

    We love this place. We trout fish. It is perfect. And it is beautiful. Great place.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Lake Como Road Dispersed Colorado

    White Shell sacred mountain

    The spots below were plenty big enough. Easy to find about a quarter mile up a dirt road. The view was spectacular. Got a little cold.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Mallette Creek North

    Beautiful Mt View

    This is what we wanted to find with dispersed camping! Beautiful view! A couple of neighbors but never heard them. Not the easiest piece of ground to get the trailer leveled but we made it work. Very pleased with our 3 nights there.

  • Mike V.
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Alamosa KOA

    Great for stargazing!

    Camp host met us at the entrance and led us to our site.

  • Jaz C.
    Sep. 23, 2025

    BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

    great spot by the sand dunes

    we arrived after dark and there were still plenty of spots. it was easy to find and the roads were in good conditions. this place had a lot of campers but the sites were very spread out. most sites had a fire pit and there was plenty of tumbleweeds to help start fires. we stayed here 2 nights when we were exploring the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve and it was around 15 minutes away.

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    North Fork Purgatiore River

    Trashy

    The camper before me didn’t bother take their trash with them. That’s highly uncalled for. It was late afternoon and I didn’t have time to look for another place.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Rio Chama RV Park

    Beautiful huge cottonwoods

    Came to take Toltec Railway. Right on Rio Chama River walking distance from train station and Chama. Great hosts. Road e-bikes around safely. Huge gorgeous cottonwood trees.

Guide to La Jara

Camping near La Jara, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking to waterfalls: Check out the short hike to the falls at Zapata Falls Campground. One camper said, "You can also hike further up to the lake," making it a great spot for both short and longer hikes.
  • Exploring the Great Sand Dunes: The Great Sand Dunes Oasis is just a short drive away. A visitor mentioned, "The location can’t be beat! Views are incredible!" Perfect for a day trip.
  • Stargazing: The UFO Watchtower is known for its dark skies. One camper noted, "The star gazing is amazing," making it a unique spot for those interested in the cosmos.

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. A review from Zapata Falls Campground highlights, "My site was great, so clean with a breathtaking view."
  • Friendly atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the welcoming vibe. A camper at Rabbit Hole Ranch said, "Everyone was super friendly!" This makes for a pleasant camping experience.
  • Clean facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A review for Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentions, "The bath house was clean," which is always a relief when camping.

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sacred White Shell Mountain, have no drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "There are no frills at Zapata Falls," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Zapata Falls Campground mentioned, "You do have to reserve online now in advance."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be aware of wildlife, especially bears. One camper at Zapata Falls Campground appreciated the "bear locker" at their site, which is essential for keeping food safe.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or nearby attractions. A review for Woods & River RV Park mentions, "Fun kids area with playground and treehouse with zip line."
  • Plan for meals: Some campgrounds have restaurants nearby, like Great Sand Dunes Oasis, which can make meal planning easier. A camper said, "There is a store and restaurant on property."
  • Bring entertainment: If you're camping at places like Mosca Campground, where activities might be limited, pack games or outdoor toys to keep the kids entertained.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A review for Alamosa KOA mentions, "The sites are typical KOA- fairly close but well kept and level."
  • Full hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups if you need them. A visitor at Woods & River RV Park noted, "Had full hookups, paid $55/night."
  • Be mindful of noise: Campers at places like UFO Watchtower mentioned that sites are close together, so keeping noise down is important. One camper said, "The campsites are extremely close, so be very considerate with noise!"

Camping near La Jara, Colorado, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best fishing spots in La Jara Creek?

La Jara Creek offers excellent trout fishing opportunities in the San Luis Valley region. Bear Lake Campground (CO) provides access to pristine waters where you can see trout clearly in the crystal-clear lake. For stream fishing, the Rio Grande watershed near Park Creek Campground offers productive spots along creek banks. The best fishing spots feature deeper pools below small falls and runs where the water flows over rocky beds. Early morning and evening hours typically yield the best results, particularly during summer months. Bring light tackle and flies that mimic local insects for the best chance of success.

What camping permits are required for La Jara Canyon?

Camping permits for La Jara Canyon vary by specific location and campground. In most Rio Grande National Forest areas, including Mosca Campground, you'll need to pay a standard camping fee (typically $10-20 per night) at self-service pay stations. For backcountry camping, no special permits are generally required beyond standard forest use regulations, though group size limits may apply. If camping at Great Sand Dunes Oasis near the eastern side of the valley, reservations are recommended. Always check for fire restrictions, which are common during summer months. For extended stays in national forest areas, a 14-day limit typically applies within a 30-day period.

How do I get to La Jara Canyon in Colorado?

To reach La Jara Canyon in southern Colorado, you'll need to navigate through the San Luis Valley. From South Fork, Colorado, at the intersection of State Highway 149 and US 160, take US 160 west for approximately 8 miles and look for marked turnoffs. Highway Springs Campground is located along this route and can serve as a reference point. For areas near La Jara from the south, consider using Rio Costilla Park as a starting point. Most access roads are gravel or dirt with possible switchbacks, so a vehicle with decent clearance is recommended. Four-wheel drive may be necessary during wet conditions or winter months.

When is the best time of year to camp in La Jara?

The optimal camping season in La Jara runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Zapata Falls Campground provides comfortable camping during summer months with stunning views. Fall camping in September and early October can be particularly rewarding at Blue Lake Campground when aspen trees display vibrant gold colors. Due to the elevation (approximately 8,000-11,500 feet), nights remain cool even in summer, and snow is possible into June at higher elevations. Spring camping (April-May) often encounters muddy conditions from snowmelt, while winter camping is only recommended for experienced cold-weather campers with appropriate gear.

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