Best Tent Camping near San Luis, CO

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near San Luis? Find the best information on tent camping near San Luis, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Colorado tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near San Luis, CO (28)

    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

    1. Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    51 Photos
    275 Saves
    Blanca, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rabbit Hole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Rabbit Hole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Rabbit Hole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Rabbit Hole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Rabbit Hole Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Rabbit Hole Ranch

    2. Rabbit Hole Ranch

    12 Reviews
    71 Photos
    147 Saves
    Mosca, Colorado

    Camp in the San Luis Valley below snow-capped mountains and surrounded by sage brush and cacti in this high alpine desert. Nestled between the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan Mountains at 7500’ in elevation, this dispersed campsite gives you magnificent views and a feeling of peaceful privacy.

    Easy access to Great Sand Dunes National Park, Mt. Blanca, Zapata Falls, and Hooper Hot Springs.

    This area is great for photography, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and solitude.

    This place gets busy on holidays but we’ll find a place for you!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Dispersed

    $30 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir

    3. Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir

    2 Reviews
    17 Photos
    17 Saves
    San Luis, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Cabresto Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cabresto Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cabresto Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cabresto Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cabresto Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cabresto Lake Campground

    4. Cabresto Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    17 Photos
    137 Saves
    Questa, New Mexico
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    5. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    8 Reviews
    50 Photos
    339 Saves
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, Colorado

    Explore any part of the 30 square mile dunefield you wish; there are no designated trails in the sand. A dunes-accessible wheelchair is available for free loan at the Visitor Center. Summer air temperatures are pleasant at this high elevation, but during afternoon hours the sand surface can reach 150F degrees, and dangerous thunderstorms can develop. Plan to hike the dunes in early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion, burned feet, or fatal lightning strikes.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Market
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from The Chicken Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from The Chicken Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from The Chicken Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from The Chicken Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from The Chicken Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from The Chicken Ranch

    7. The Chicken Ranch

    1 Review
    38 Photos
    6 Saves
    Antonito, Colorado

    Located in Southern Colorado (not Nevada) in the beautiful San Luis Valley is a 40-acre homestead open for camping and glamping. We are a primitive campground. Flat RV and camper spots with 360 views. Just turn your lawn chair! All RV's and pull behinds must be self-contained. We are not offering hook-ups at this time.

    Do you love animals? Well, so do we! There are horses, goats, a cow, rescue dogs and of course chickens living on the ranch. All of our farm animals are friendly and we are happy to schedule time for the kids (includes adult children) to pet and give treats. Fresh eggs will be available to purchase as long as the girls are keeping up. Potluck cookouts every Friday night are sure to provide some great memories and you might even meet a new friend or two!

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Glamping
    • Showers
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground

    8. Cuchilla Campground

    6 Reviews
    34 Photos
    207 Saves
    Valdez, New Mexico
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Secluded Star Gazer Campsite Near Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Secluded Star Gazer Campsite Near Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Secluded Star Gazer Campsite Near Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Secluded Star Gazer Campsite Near Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Secluded Star Gazer Campsite Near Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Secluded Star Gazer Campsite Near Great Sand Dunes National Park

    10. Secluded Star Gazer Campsite Near Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Be the first to review!
    24 Photos
    17 Saves
    San Luis, Colorado

    Reconnect with yourself and nature at this unforgettable escape. Enjoy amazing views and awesome picture perfect sunsets every night.

    **THE YURT IS CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE**

    Use the tent, bring and stay in your campervan or pitch your own tent. Pack in what you pack out.

    The Tent

    A large 8-10 person waterproof canvas bell tents on top of a 16 ft x 18 ft platform - 16 feet in diameter. The tent has low profile windows that go around the perimeter of the tent and a large netted door with double zippers for privacy. There is a propane heater that you can use on cooler nights but propane is not provided. The heater takes the little green cans. There is also one air mattress with a battery power air pump if you wish to use it. The batteries may or may not be good so if you are planning on using it please make sure to bring 4 D batteries just in case. Parking space next to the tent so you wont have to carry your gear very far. This is a primitive site and does not have water or electric. Please pack in what you pack out.

    The Property

    The property is marked off with green poles with pink flag tape on the tops. You are free to roam anywhere inside this area. During the summer months rattlesnakes are active in the area so please be aware of what is around you when walking around. Also the tent is guidelines around the whole tent for support. Please do not mess with the guidelines and be careful when walking around them so you don't trip.

    There is a fire pit in front of the tent to use when you are allowed. Please check local weather for "Red Flag Warnings" in area 225 (San Luis Valley). If there is a warning for that area it is illegal to outside open fires.

    Popular hikes

    • Zapata Falls and South Zapata Lake -30mins away
    • Great Sand Dunes National Park -40 mins away
    • Smith Reservoir State Wildlife Area -25 mins away

    **Popular Attractions **

    • The UFO Watch Town -35 mins away
    • Colorado Gators Reptile Park -35 mins away
    • The Town of Fort Garland -15 mins away

    **Ski/Snowboarding **

    • Taos -1 hr away
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents

    $15 - $35 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 28 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in San Luis

666 Reviews of 28 San Luis Campgrounds


  • Matthew D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Costilla Park
    Jan. 15, 2025

    Rio Costilla Park

    Beautiful Area

    It is very well kept and managed. The care takers are nice. It's a little more expensive to stay per night than a state park but the views are well worth it.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Dunes Recreation
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Sand Dunes Recreation

    Great stop otw to Great Sand Dunes

    Everything was as described. They are open during the winter. The showers were hot and clean! Lovely views to wake up too!

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Dec. 15, 2024

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Wild and Untamed

    Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.

    The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.

    Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.

    The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.

    Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!

  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montoso Campground
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Montoso Campground

    Great view, quiet, well appointed

    Picnic table, running water in spigots, fire ring and a view. We drove our van right to the spot. Clean pit toilets. $7/night

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Questa Lodge & RV Resort
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Questa Lodge & RV Resort

    Beautiful grounds

    Stayed in spot R1 which is pretty small/crowded in, but near river and trees. Lovely duck and geese ponds and river walk, also dog park. Clean restrooms and showers but no changing stalls in either mens/womens shower. Very quiet and affordable. Near to grocery. Grounds are well-kept and healthy & green (lots of trees, shrubs, beautiful walk by river). Sorry pics are a bit washed out, doesn't do it justice.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Oct. 13, 2024

    BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

    Great Spot

    Was able to find a really nice open spot with amazing views of the mountains. Was big and spacious enough for me and my friend to camp in our vans. No one around for miles!

  • DL M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountainside 4WD High-Clearance Dispersed Campsites
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Mountainside 4WD High-Clearance Dispersed Campsites

    Tree sheltered sites along

    I walked up the road about three miles on the way to the lake because the beginning of the road was way to rough for my van with large rocks about 6 inch diameter.  There were lots of people disperse camping on the hilside above Como Road.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Junebug Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Junebug Campground

    Red River access

    We camped right to. The Red River, the site was fairly clean but we cleaned up what the campground host failed to pick up.

    Picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilet was clean.

    This is a great place to stay and it allows for day trips into Taos and Valle Vidal which is a spectacular trip. We saw large herds of bison roaming and had to wait for 20 minutes while they crossed the dirt road.

  • Melissa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Arroyo Seco Dispersed NF Camping

    Absolutely Gorgeous

    There are so many campsites to choose from, all along the Hondo Rio. It's peaceful and quiet. We brought our four dogs and 13 year old. There's so much to do to keep them busy. The dogs love the river and to run through it. No one really bothers anyone. There are toilets at some of the sites. Very clean. We had storms while camping. At least six rock/mud slides on the road. I don't know who, but someone managed to clean it all up in record time. We've had a great time, even with the rain and hail. We will definitely come back.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Zapata Falls Campground

    Labor day mountain camping

    Nice campsite. Bathrooms were locked and no host on site today maybe due to holiday. Plenty of hiking nearby. Hike to the falls is short and worth it. You can also hike further up to the lake.

  • Shana D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    Great Location

    We booked here last minute on a holiday weekend and we were thankful they had a spot for us! The campground parking area is just that. It’s a place to park for the night, with full hook ups. No wifi. The location can’t be beat! Views are incredible! The bath house was clean. There is a store and restaurant in property. They also have cabins to rent. . My only complaint…this is a dark sky area with expansive views of the sky and the opportunity to see the Milky Way. This is not something g I get to see at home! However, all the giant campers had their bright lights on at night and it really messed with viewing of the sky. I wish there was a rule of no outside lights at night. It’s unnecessary! If you are one of those people that leave your lights on when you go in for the night, please reconsider!

  • Lisa M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Oasis
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Great Sand Dunes Oasis

    Close to the park but basic campsites

    We spent one night here so we could go to the park. Nice enough campground with level spaces and full hook ups. We paid $54. Area also has cabins and a lodge as well as a store with a little restaurant. The showers were amazing at this place. Nice hot copious amounts of water and very clean. About 4 miles from the park entrance. Sandunes were pretty cool, but unless you want to hike to the very top of them, you could easily only spend two hours at the most here. 

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

    Good spot if you get there early

    There’s plenty of spots off the main road, but seems like you need to get there early. We showed up around 6 pm. The road does get pretty rough eventually, and we didn’t trust our minivan going through the “unmaintained” section, we turned around and were able to find a connecting side road that had plenty of open space out there. When entering the road initially, the side road would be about half way up to your left. Pretty close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, so we were happy with this location! Nice mountain view.

  • cali N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Zapata Falls Campground
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Zapata Falls Campground

    the most incredible place

    i had an amazing time here. my site was great, so clean with a breathtaking view, clean bathrooms close by, and a bear locker! there is so much to do and the falls were insane. if you go past the trail and into the water to the cave, you can see the falls and feel the mist on your face. i am coming back next year FOR SURE. oh, and the camp host was very kind and friendly, truly a big help!!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Cuchilla Campground

    Wonderful creekside camping

    This is a wonderful little campground on the way to Taos Ski Valley. Sites are right on a creek & have picnic tables. From what we could tell, there are 2 different locations that we saw on the road, highway 150, one with sites 4-6 & further North where we stayed sites 1-3. We were able to find a level place to park the van & I took a dip in the creek in the morning. Refreshing! Camping is FREE at this campground for up to two weeks! There is no garbage here, so pack it in & pack it out.

  • Erika L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mallette Creek North
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Mallette Creek North

    Peaceful

    Even with a couple and a new born up the hill I never heard them from our campervan! Serene surroundings and even and beautiful place to camp during a thunderstorm!

  • Janay` M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cuchilla Campground
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Cuchilla Campground

    Didn’t want to leave

    Absolutely magical! My tent got rained out but I just haven’t had the opportunity to waterproof the tent. When it’s not wet season I’m sure this would be just even more magical. The bathroom was easily accessible, fire pits are great. Picnic tables were marked up, but the sound of the River was so worth all of it.


Guide to San Luis

Tent camping near San Luis, Colorado offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tent campers should check out Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

  • The Great Sand Dunes Dispersed area provides a beautiful backdrop with mountain views and plenty of open space for setting up tents.
  • This location is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.
  • Campers appreciate the freedom of no permits required, making it easy to enjoy a spontaneous getaway.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir

  • At Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir, you'll find clean washrooms and cement picnic tables, enhancing your camping experience.
  • The area features several nice camping sites around the lake, perfect for those who enjoy a scenic view while they relax.
  • Although it can be windy, the peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quiet retreat.

Tips for tent camping near San Luis

  • For a more secluded experience, consider the Sacred White Shell Mountain Campground, which offers several dispersed campsites just a short drive from the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
  • If you're looking for a unique camping experience, the Rabbit Hole Ranch is known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful views, making it a favorite among campers.
  • Be prepared for rough roads when visiting places like Great Sand Dunes Dispersed, as some areas may require a vehicle with higher clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near San Luis, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near San Luis, CO is Great Sand Dunes Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 10 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near San Luis, CO?

    TheDyrt.com has all 28 tent camping locations near San Luis, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.