Dog-Friendly Camping near Saguache, CO

Valley View Hot Springs sits within the Orient Land Trust property at an elevation of 8,800 feet in the San Luis Valley. This clothing-optional camping area includes multiple hot spring pools fed by naturally heated mineral water containing trace lithium for relaxation. Winter camping options position some tent sites near hot springs, allowing campers to enjoy soaking even with snow on the ground.

What to do

Stargazing at UFO Watchtower: Visit this quirky attraction that doubles as a campground in Hooper, 39 miles southeast of Saguache. "The star gazing is amazing as well! Will come back again," shares Autumn W. The UFO Watchtower offers a unique camping experience with designated sites costing $15 per night or $5 per car for entry only.

Rock climbing at Penitente Canyon: Located 25 miles southwest of Saguache, this BLM recreation area features red rock formations popular with climbers. "Penitente Canyon is known for world class rock climbing. Even if you're not a climber it is fun to go and watch sport," notes Jennifer C. The canyon also offers hiking and mountain biking trails for non-climbers.

Hot springs soaking at Joyful Journey: Located 20 miles south of Saguache on Highway 17, these mineral pools offer different temperature options. "The spa offers numerous pools and tubs at varying temperatures so you can find your joyful spot– be sure to check out the cold plunge pool as well," advises Shari G. Daily access is included with camping fees and includes breakfast and dinner service.

What campers like

High elevation camping at Buffalo Pass: Situated about 20 miles west of Saguache at over 9,000 feet elevation, this Forest Service campground offers cool temperatures even in summer. "At a little over 9,000 feet elevation it cooled off nicely in July. Only a few sites occupied so it was very quiet," reports David R. The campground features basic amenities with standard Forest Service toilets.

Natural arch viewing at dispersed sites: Free BLM camping areas near Natural Arch provide solitude and unique geological features. "We camped on top of the ridge about a half mile from the arch. Big site, fire ring, great views," writes Julie K. These dispersed sites require no reservations but offer minimal amenities.

Fishing at O'Haver Lake: Located 45 miles northwest of Saguache at 9,000 feet elevation, this lake campground offers productive fishing. "The trout fishing here is incredible and many folks were getting their 4 fish limit each day," notes Steve G. Sites surround two sides of the lake, providing easy water access for anglers.

What you should know

Rough access roads: Many campgrounds near Saguache require travel on unpaved roads. "The road up to the site is bumpy and steep and bit dicey when wet, but once you've made it up here, you won't want to leave," warns Kristin A. about O'Haver Lake. High-clearance vehicles perform better on these roads.

Extreme temperature shifts: The San Luis Valley experiences significant day-to-night temperature changes. "We enjoyed nice daytime temperatures in the mid 60's and nighttime temperatures right around 50," reports Don L. Pack layers for camping, even in summer months.

Limited services: Cell service is inconsistent in the region with spotty coverage. "No AT&T cell service in the campground proper but the hill just beyond the cattleguard in the entrance gets full bars," notes Jorge G. about Buffalo Pass Campground. Arrive with supplies as nearby towns offer limited options.

Tips for camping with families

Sand Dunes Recreation: Located 40 miles southeast of Saguache, this hot springs facility offers family-friendly camping with pool access. "The pools are extremely kid friendly, and there are greenhouses with 21+ soaking and bar," explains Elizabeth H. The campground offers basic sites with water, toilets, showers and laundry facilities.

Bug protection for summer visits: Mosquitos can be intense at certain times and locations. "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," warns Sarah B. about camping at Pinon Flats Campground near the Great Sand Dunes.

Dog-friendly campgrounds near Saguache: Most campgrounds in the area welcome pets with proper restraints. At UFO Watchtower, one camper noted, "Neighbor horses came out to join me," showing the rural, pet-friendly nature of these sites. Always keep dogs leashed in established campgrounds to respect wildlife and other campers.

Tips from RVers

Limited hookup options: RV camping near Saguache typically offers minimal services. "The RV spots are on one side of the large parking lot, with the hook up spaces in the middle, with non-electric spots running around two of the outside sides," explains Shari G. about Joyful Journey Hot Springs, where solar power helps extend stays.

Temperature considerations for hot water: Some campgrounds utilize naturally heated water. "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!" mentions Heidi S. about Sand Dunes Recreation.

Site selection for views: Many campgrounds offer premium sites with mountain vistas. "Choose wisely not every site has a view of the dunes. I did my research and was rewarded with a site on the outer portion of the camp ground," recommends Sarah B. Reserve early for the best RV sites, especially during peak summer season.