Tent camping options around Weston, Colorado range from primitive sites to more established grounds. The region sits at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet with dramatic temperature swings between day and night. Summer thunderstorms frequently roll through the area in afternoons, making morning activities the most reliable for outdoor exploration.
What to do
Hiking access: Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camping provides convenient entry points for nearby trails. "Nearness to Great Sand Dunes was a huge plus. Alamosa nearby for supplies & food," mentions camper alicianlv, who appreciated the strategic location.
Fishing opportunities: Blackjack Tent Area in nearby Cimarron Canyon State Park offers direct river access. "We stayed at camp site #27, which was the biggest and spacious site... Caught plenty of trout and overall had a great time," notes Josie H. Site #30 was highlighted as "probably the other best one as it was in the back and last camp site and right next to the water."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings present the best wildlife spotting chances. At Great Sand Dunes Dispersed, campers report seeing "coyotes in the distance" and various desert species. Vanessa C. documented seeing "mountain blue birds, tiger beetles, circus beetles, hover flies, common flies, plateau fence lizards, snake holes, pocket mice, deer droppings" during her stay.
What campers like
Night sky views: The limited light pollution creates stunning stargazing conditions. Hummingbird Ranch received praise specifically for its dark skies: "Hummingbird Ranch was the most beautiful site we stayed at during a 5,500 mile cross country adventure! Awesome views, beautiful sky, and complete freedom," shares Barbara F.
Mountain scenery: The panoramic views rank high among camper priorities. John M. noted about Great Sand Dunes Dispersed, "Enjoyed an evening here. Not much shade, you will be exposed to the sun and any rain."
Solitude and privacy: For those seeking seclusion, higher elevation sites typically offer more privacy. "There are three dispersed sites listed along this road with the first being flat and open, the second being slightly uphill and fairly open, and the third being higher uphill and far more private," explains a camper about the Great Sand Dunes area.
What you should know
Vehicle considerations: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. At Cabresto Lake Campground, "A vehicle with off-road capabilities is recommended if you want to reach this campground. While not impossible with a regular sedan, it does take navigating up some unpaved switchbacks," advises David L.
Weather preparedness: Strong winds are common throughout the region. DL M. at Sanchez Stabilization Reservoir notes: "Quiet windy. The van is rocking around. Hold onto your car doors when you open them."
Arrival timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "There's plenty of spots off the main road, but seems like you need to get there early. We showed up around 6 pm," shares Ashley W. about Great Sand Dunes Dispersed camping.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For the best tent camping near Weston, Colorado with children, choose sites with natural boundaries. "Sacred White Shell Mountain Campground is only about 12 miles from the Great Sand Dunes National Park... There are several dispersed campsites," notes Amanda S., adding that "All campsites seems you would be able to get to with a RV or a 2 wheel car."
Temperature management: Pack layers for children as temperature swings can be extreme. "The temperature almost went down to freezing at night in early June, so be prepared with layers for both hot and cold desert conditions," warns one camper about the Great Sand Dunes area.
Bug protection: Insects can be abundant, particularly near water sources. "Bugs are insane so don't come without spray," advises Aly E. about camping near Great Sand Dunes.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Camgrounds at Jamail Ranch gets high marks for value. "Best place to camp in these parts," states Travis J. in a 5-star review, though the property is primarily tent-focused.
Road conditions: Road quality varies greatly between campgrounds. John H. notes about Great Sand Dunes Dispersed: "We selected this location because it got so many great reviews... We were one of very few travel trailers on this road."
Leveling challenges: Finding flat spots for trailers can be difficult in many areas. "They were very difficult to level our smallish travel trailer and perhaps that is the problem," reports one RVer, though they added "the views were beyond incredible and for that alone I would use this location for an overnight stay again."
