Searching for the best camping near La Jara, CO? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are La Jara campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near La Jara. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
"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."
"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. "
$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."
$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."
"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."
$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."
$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."
$20 - $65 / night
"Red Lake hike was awesome and easy."
$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."
"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."
TravelerThis 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.
ScoutCamp host met us at the entrance and led us to our site.
Travelerwe 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.
ScoutThe 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.
ScoutCame 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.
GuideBeautiful area and site. There are multiple sites, and all seem to have been recently cleared and maintained. There is a sign right where the sites start. The specific site that is the coordinates on Dyrt is right next to the creek and a great spot. The road is somewhat busy for being so far back. Don't go too far or you will hit the campsite that you have to pay for.
TravelerWe drove around Forest Trail 9 (FT9) until we found a great spot on the edge overlooking the Rio. Nestled in some trees, it was flat for our tent, awesome views, fires were allowed and already had an established rock ring.
GuideCity allows one overnight parking. Dump and water for RVs.
GuideWas going to stop at the dispersed camping which is before this one. Decided to continue on and take my chances. So glad I did. Beautiful scenery, so quiet. It’s a mental escape. There are flies here now so have kept the Tune closed up.
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.
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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