Primitive camping near San Luis, Colorado offers access to diverse high desert terrain at elevations between 7,500-9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with dramatic daily temperature swings common throughout the San Luis Valley. Camping options include established dispersed sites on BLM land where campers must contend with sandy conditions that affect tent stakes and equipment.
What to do
Fishing at nearby reservoirs: Mountain Home Reservoir provides excellent trout fishing opportunities within a short drive from San Luis. "We camped at our property a few miles from here but came here to fish and it was amazing great trout fishing and beautiful views," notes Jacob K. about Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites.
Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park: Located approximately 30 minutes from many primitive camping areas near San Luis. "We hit the Great Sand Dunes National Park about 45 minutes away on our last day out here. The water, hiking, breathtaking views, and wide expanse to post up camp was great," shares Maggie M.
Explore local hiking trails: The area offers numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "There is a pretty hike" at the end of the dirt road near North Fork Purgatiore River, according to Lansen C., who adds "Can't ask for a better dispersed camping area."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife that frequently visits camping areas. "We sat by the fire and just enjoyed the sounds of the river," describes Julissa M., who camped at North Fork Purgatiore River. Campers also report seeing elk herds, lizards, and hearing coyotes in the distance.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed shared, "I saw constellations that I had only heard about," noting that higher elevation sites offer even better viewing conditions.
Easy access to water features: Several camping areas are situated near streams or reservoirs. "We parked up by a little stream in an E350 RV. Ground a bit bumpy, but drivable if you go slow," reports Desiree C. about BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150.
What you should know
Camping regulations: Most BLM dispersed sites maintain a 14-day stay limit within a 45-day period. Some areas have additional restrictions. At Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir, camping spots include "cement picnic tables" and "about 4 nice camping sites around the lake," according to DL M.
Navigation challenges: GPS coordinates and mapping apps may provide incorrect directions to some sites. "The map location and coordinates are not correct. I was unable to find the spot," warns Charles B. about Mountain Home Reservoir. Multiple reviewers recommend not relying solely on The Dyrt coordinates for navigation.
Weather precautions: Rapid weather changes require preparation. The region experiences substantial temperature fluctuations between day and night, particularly at higher elevations. "It dipped down to upper forties so bring an extra blanket. And it was windy af," notes a camper at BLM Mt. Blanca Rd.
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection essential: Insects can be problematic throughout warm months. "Bugs are the worst here than anywhere I've been so lots of bug spray! Cactuses everywhere too so wear your shoes," warns Aly E. about BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed camping.
Pet safety considerations: Dog owners should monitor pets closely in these areas. "Our dog got into something that made her sick, so I recommend keeping a close eye on your dogs here, especially dogs that like to get into things they shouldn't," advises Mikaela S. who camped at Sacred White Shell Mountain.
Timing your arrival: Weekdays offer significantly more privacy and site selection. "We went on tuesday and wednesday and i had no camping neighbors but there were still a few people around the lake," shares Linnell B. about Mountain Home Reservoir, while noting "i could definitely see this getting super packed on any weekend so get there early."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Access roads vary significantly in quality and may deteriorate with elevation gain. "The higher you go, the rougher the road, but plenty of sites," explains a reviewer at Sacred White Shell Dispersed Camping, who recommends, "If anything I struggled to find a level site-but plenty of rocks to help with that."
Site selection strategies: Lower elevation sites typically provide easier access for larger vehicles. "Several large sites at lower elevation, flat and large enough for an RV or two. Road is graded through the lower portion. As you get higher, the road gets rockier and narrower with some washouts," notes Jeff P. about BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed.
Wind protection planning: Position RVs to minimize wind exposure when possible. "The winds blow often and hard," notes a camper, while another mentions, "We stayed in the first pull out to the left of the road. Watch the entry off CO 150 as it is very narrow. No hookups but no fee. All was well until the wind came up suddenly and we were in a brief windstorm with sand all in our trailer."
