The San Luis Valley sits at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, creating distinct camping conditions near Villa Grove, Colorado. Nighttime temperatures typically drop 30-40 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months. Many campgrounds in this region require advance reservations, especially during peak season from June through September.
What to do
Explore natural hot springs pools: Valley View Hot Springs offers approximately twelve hot spring pools at varying temperatures scattered throughout the property. "This place has a different Vibe everytime we visit. Often an International Destination for travelers from all over the World to weirdo Bernie Sanders Types. A mixed bag of People make this place interesting as it is Natural," notes one visitor at Valley View Hot Springs.
Hike to mountain viewpoints: Trails leading from campgrounds provide access to panoramic valley views. "Property features several natural hot springs and you can hike to a cave. Facility was clean but a little crowded for me," shares one camper about their experience.
Visit nearby Salida: Just 30 minutes from many campgrounds, this town offers shopping, restaurants, and outdoor recreation options. A visitor to Wilderness Expeditions RV Park commented, "Fantastic little campground right on the Arkansas river. It's also right across the road from a Walmart and a Sonic, but down in a small valley so you don't hear the road noise."
River activities: The Arkansas River provides opportunities for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. "You can walk under the highway to the river and the Canyon is pretty," notes one camper about Five Points Campground.
What campers like
Access to natural healing waters: Many visitors appreciate the therapeutic qualities of the region's hot springs. "We loved the sauna. Hiking to the hot springs pools and soaking with snow on the ground was a whole experience worth having," writes one visitor about Valley View Hot Springs.
Communal facilities: Some glamping locations near Villa Grove provide shared spaces for campers. "This place was great! The camp sites were simple but great and you have total access to all hot springs, bathrooms, showers, sauna, AND a communal outdoor kitchen," explains one camper.
Diverse accommodation options: From basic tent sites to full-service glamping experiences, the region offers varied lodging styles. At Joyful Journey Hot Springs, "The camping fee per night without hook ups is $134 per night which is steep but most people are here for the hot springs. There is a small motel on site, yurts, and also 4 TPs for rent."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local fauna. "And we even saw a moose. The stars are amazing here BTW," reports a visitor to Monarch Spur RV Park.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain elevations create significant temperature swings. "High altitude means cool to cold nights. Gorgeous area and park!" notes a camper at Monarch Spur RV Park.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping locations require advance booking, especially during busy periods. "You need to reserve well in advance as the demand is much higher than the capacity," explains a visitor to Valley View Hot Springs.
Clothing-optional policies: Some hot springs facilities allow nude soaking. "First thing is first, this is a place where clothing is optional... You need to be able to chill and relax and be cool with nudity. If you meet that criteria, you just found your new favorite place," shares one camper.
Additional fees: Some locations charge separate fees for amenities. "Reservation only sites. Current price per night, $28 plus an additional $9 a day once you get there," explains a visitor to Five Points Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activity options: Some campgrounds offer specific recreation for children. At Cutty's Resort, "They have mini golf, a pool, a basketball court, and a game room. All are a tiny bit rundown but who cares-you're camping!"
Organized recreation programs: Certain facilities provide structured activities. "They had young staff that organized hands on crafts and science experiment classes for all the kids to participate in who were staying that weekend. One class was the kids making alka seltzer rockets," reports a Cutty's Resort visitor.
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal cell service. "No cell service so teens not happy about this," notes one family about their stay at Cutty's Resort.
Diverse swimming options: Multiple pools at different temperatures accommodate various age groups. "The pools on site were perfect for the kids. On site mini golf was a blast. The views in the campground were awesome," shares a camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Some RV spots provide better views or access than others. "We were in one of these spots because we run completely on solar to save money. There are zero trees around the lot so sunshine was plentiful," explains an RVer at Joyful Journey Hot Springs.
Meal planning considerations: Some locations include meals with stays. "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... In addition to the soaking being included in the price, so was a buffet style breakfast and dinner."
Driving conditions: Access roads vary in quality throughout the region. "The road leading up to the campground isn't paved but doesn't require any technical or 4x4 driving. However, if you pass the campground and continue down the road the road gets much rougher and requires high clearance and 4x4," explains a visitor to Turtle Rock Campground.
Limited services: Some campgrounds lack full hookups or amenities. "There is no source of water. There were latrine vaulted toilets well supplied," notes one RVer about a site in the area.
