Camping in Alamosa, CO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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Colorado
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Alamosa

92% (2063 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alamosa

Star Hosts in Alamosa

Top camping destinations

Taylor Park Reservoir

San Isabel National Forest

White River National Forest

577 campgrounds

This was taken (with a 400mm lens) in the parking lot at the store below the campground. The sand dunes sit on the west edge of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and so see some pretty awesome sunsets.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

631 campgrounds

Under $50

85%

(102)

Dreamweaver's Sanctuary

21 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Crestone, CO

Dreamweaver’s Sanctuary is an evolving artist collaborative project and homestead that focuses on sustainability, creativity, spiritual growth, with mindful community values. We host events and workshops, prepare meals, and we are now offering Usui-Tibetan/Holy Fire and Crystal Reiki for those looking to balance and replenish the Mind, Body and Soul. Expect surprises as we are always incorporating new and fun ideas to enhance your experience and bring unity to the locals of Crestone. In addition to this project, we invite you to join us for Hip Camp. A rustic camping experience in Crestone, Colorado with the most majestic views. About the land: Imagine setting up camp in the high desert of Colorado, resting in the quiet of nature, and awakening to birds singing to you as you lay nestled in an ancient Cottonwood Grove. Next you open your eyes to the Majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, overlooking the Great Sand Dunes. Enjoy a fresh and power packed smoothie to break your overnight fast or join us in our off-grid rustic zen community kitchen and prepare what you so choose. Find yourself a comfortable spot and spend some time in meditation or join others in our Meditation Tent, engage in a peaceful and mindful conversation with other campers, enjoy a garden walk or book a Crystal or Holy Fire Reiki Session. Did we mention the sunsets!? In the evening stargazing is a favorite, as Crestone is a Dark Sky Community. And all of that is just here at the sanctuary! Venture out and find hiking trails, take a short drive and enjoy your day at the sand dunes, enjoy local Hot Springs or visit one of Crestone’s many spiritual centers or temples. While we hope you will choose to stay with us, keep in mind that this is a family friendly environment and we welcome pets. Note that we are 4:20 friendly, but kindly discourage the use of non-recreational or illegal substances and the misuse of alcohol on the premises. We have outdoor solar shower amenities and composting toilets and outhouses. There is a water and tea station available. Wifi is available near our Tech Deck. - Cosmic Kids Yoga 11:30 am in Vimana - Sacred Fire Offering @ Sunset Daily in Vimana Crestone is a very special place and we look forward to meeting you here!

93%

(477)

Rabbit Hole Ranch

108 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Alamosa East, CO

The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif and the Great Sand Dunes and is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive from both to include Zapata Falls. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer you a place nearby to set up camp and go exploring. Alamosa, the largest town in the SLV, is just 20 minutes away. With a population of around 9,800 Alamosa has that small town feel and has the goods and services you will need. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our two Great Pyrenees are here to help keep you and your pets (and our chickens) safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with all three of our dogs. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, his name is TheoVon and he is huge! Returning this season is KayLee also a GP and and Finn, who is a little Benji lookin rescue from Alaska who just LOVES everyone. :) Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.

Mono Loco Flats

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Fort Garland, CO

Mono Loco Flats sits on a Mesa nestled in the Sangre de Cristo mountains near Sangre De Cristo creek and La Veta Pass. Growing up in Southern Colorado I was fortunate to explore this zone as a kid and I feel fortunate that I can share Mono Loco Flats with others. Set up camp and enjoy sweeping views of Mount Blanca and the surrounding Sangre De Cristo mountain range. This 15 acre camp is situated just off highway 160 for easy access, approximately 25 minutes from The Great Sand Dunes Natianal park and Zapata Falls. Mono Loco Flats is an excellent home base for exploring the San Luis Valley. Sangre de Cristo Creek is a short hike or drive to the south. Fort Garland is a 10 minute drive. This Mesa provides 360 panoramic views with epic sunrise and sunset views of Mount Blanca. Wild horses and prong horned antelope may wander the Mesa as you enjoy your camp. The natural beauty of these three campsites are worth protecting so please if you pack it in, pack it out. This is a dry camp with no toilet or garbage facilities. Please treat this land with respect so that future campers may enjoy the land free of rubbish. All three campsites are accessible with any type of vehicle and the long driveway and turnaround can accommodate any trailer or RV up to 20'. So please come and enjoy the Sangre De Cristo mountains at Mono Loco Flats:) @monkeypuzzlespace = Mono Loco Flats on Instagram

97%

(735)

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing. Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching. New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable. ATTENTION: THE SHOWER HOUSE AND TOILET WILL BE SHUTTING DOWN AND GETTING WINTERIZED OCTOBER 1ST UNTIL MAY 1ST. No fireworks are permitted at any time.

12 top campgrounds near Alamosa

97%

(31)

Penitente Canyon Tin Can Camp

5 sites · Lodging200 acres · Center, CO

Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley at the entrance to Penitente Canyon and Special Recreation Management Area and 50 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, San Luis Valley Great Outdoors welcomes all guests to come and enjoy their cabins at Tin Can Camp. Tin Can Camp is located within 200 acres of Colorado State Trust Land at roughly 8,000 feet above sea level. The landscape is arid high desert with scattered groves of piñon and juniper trees. The camp serves as a convenient home base for launching adventures across the San Luis Valley to various local Hot Springs, archeological sites, and other small town local attractions. For the more adventurous guests, there is recreation right from Tin Can Camp with The Valleys largest trail system and climbing area less than a mile away and access to the vast expanse of the Rio Grande National Forest. The cabins are "micro homes" outfitted with modern conveniences. Each cabin has solar power, a propane heater, a compact kitchen with a sink, water jugs, and pump, two full size loft beds, a small table with chairs, an incinerator toilet, and a covered porch. Incinerating toilets are self-contained waste management systems that burn human waste instead of flushing it into a sewer or septic system. These toilets use propane gas to incinerate waste at high temperatures, reducing it to a small amount of sterile ash. Incinerating toilets are commonly used in locations where traditional plumbing is impractical, such as remote cabins and environmentally sensitive areas. They are valued for their efficiency, minimal environmental impact, and the elimination of the need for water or chemical treatments. There is odor associated with the incineration process. Guests should know there is no water available on the property. You will need to bring water for all your needs. This includes cooking, washing, drinking, and for putting out fires. Guest should plan 2 gallons of water per person per day. A public well/pumphouse is at the intersection of County Road 38A and Road 40G (37.836363, -106.271551)(inoperable as of 7/11/2024- BLM working to fix it). Tin Can Camp is adjacent to the future Sangre de Cristo Dark Sky Reserve, and the property has spectacular views of the Milky Way Galaxy. Each cabin has a fire ring for guests to relax and enjoy the dark nighttime sky. Wood collecting on the property is not permitted, so guests must bring their own firewood. As mentioned, the property is located at the entrance to Penitente Canyon. Penitente Canyon is a Nationally-renowned climbing destination with more than 400 climbing routes. Penitente Canyon also has 30+ miles of non-motorized trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian activities and guest have direct trail access from camp! Guests can ride mountain bikes directly from the property. There are numerous recreation, sightseeing, historical and cultural, and agricultural tourism opportunities in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area. Gas, ice, water, and some groceries can be found nearby at the La Garita Trading Post, which has operated since 1913. The La Garita Trading Post is in a historic log cabin and serves the best local-beef burgers in the San Luis Valley.

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Rabbit Hole Ranch

108 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Alamosa East, CO

The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif and the Great Sand Dunes and is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive from both to include Zapata Falls. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer you a place nearby to set up camp and go exploring. Alamosa, the largest town in the SLV, is just 20 minutes away. With a population of around 9,800 Alamosa has that small town feel and has the goods and services you will need. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our two Great Pyrenees are here to help keep you and your pets (and our chickens) safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with all three of our dogs. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, his name is TheoVon and he is huge! Returning this season is KayLee also a GP and and Finn, who is a little Benji lookin rescue from Alaska who just LOVES everyone. :) Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.

Mono Loco Flats

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Fort Garland, CO

Mono Loco Flats sits on a Mesa nestled in the Sangre de Cristo mountains near Sangre De Cristo creek and La Veta Pass. Growing up in Southern Colorado I was fortunate to explore this zone as a kid and I feel fortunate that I can share Mono Loco Flats with others. Set up camp and enjoy sweeping views of Mount Blanca and the surrounding Sangre De Cristo mountain range. This 15 acre camp is situated just off highway 160 for easy access, approximately 25 minutes from The Great Sand Dunes Natianal park and Zapata Falls. Mono Loco Flats is an excellent home base for exploring the San Luis Valley. Sangre de Cristo Creek is a short hike or drive to the south. Fort Garland is a 10 minute drive. This Mesa provides 360 panoramic views with epic sunrise and sunset views of Mount Blanca. Wild horses and prong horned antelope may wander the Mesa as you enjoy your camp. The natural beauty of these three campsites are worth protecting so please if you pack it in, pack it out. This is a dry camp with no toilet or garbage facilities. Please treat this land with respect so that future campers may enjoy the land free of rubbish. All three campsites are accessible with any type of vehicle and the long driveway and turnaround can accommodate any trailer or RV up to 20'. So please come and enjoy the Sangre De Cristo mountains at Mono Loco Flats:) @monkeypuzzlespace = Mono Loco Flats on Instagram

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Base Camp Family Campground

20 sites · RVs20 acres · Alamosa, CO

Welcome To Your Base Camp Whether your adventure brings you here for just one night, or the entire summer, this is the view you want to wake up to! We have... •Largest Pull Through Sites In The Area-100' x 40' •Big-Rig-Friendly, 60 degree angled sites •Large Private Showers •Best 360 Degree Views •Full Hookups •Free Wi-Fi •Laundry •Close To All Local Attractions •Sandboard & Sand Sled Rentals - https://slv-adventures.square.site •65 Degree Average Summer Temperatures Base Camp Family Campground is operated by the Baker Family. Josh Baker first lived in Southern Colorado in the early 90's as a child, but his parents moved the family away after a short time. His desire to move back here as an adult prompted him to start bringing his own family to Colorado for vacations. They purchased land in the valley in 2014 and moved to Colorado in 2020. They are using all they've learned from years of RVing adventures, to continue the park's mission of providing a clean, affordable, spacious, well-run camping facility, and to be a centrally located "base camp" and hub of information for everything this unique area has to offer. You may feel it when you first enter the valley...this is a special place like no other. You'll be camping on Native American sacred ground, in the shadows of 14,000 ft. mountain peaks, in the largest high-desert alpine valley in the world, that is sprinkled with free-flowing artesian wells, hot springs and wet lands. Water gushes up through the desert floor from aquifers that are continually replenished from the snow that melts from the surrounding mountains. The valley gets 350 days of sunshine each year and less than 8 inches of precipitation, mostly in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Bring a sweater, even if you're here in August. Daily summer temperatures average 65 degrees, and it will get down into the 50's at night. That's perfect camping weather! For native American tribes, including the Utes, Apache, Navajos, and others, this valley is considered the source of life, a place where humans and spirit enter and leave this world. This sipapu, or place of emergence, is believed to be near the sand dunes, in the San Luis Lakes area. The valley was considered so sacred, that no war would be waged here. The tribes would pass each other in peace. Blanca Peak is considered the eastern boundary and doorway into Dinetah, the traditional Navajo homeland. Today, 30 spiritual centers, representing religions from all over the world, are located in the Crestone area at the north end of the valley. The ET Connection As if all of the mountains, deserts, hot springs, and sacred ground weren't enough, The San Luis Valley is also known as a UFO hot spot! UFO sightings have been reported as far back as the 1600's. You'll want to visit The UFO Watch tower, on highway 17, "The Cosmic Highway". Owner, Judy Messoline is a wealth of information on the subject. • EXPRESS CHECK IN - We'll send you an email the day before your arrival, with your site number, wifi password, etc. There is no need to check in at the host site when you arrive, unless you have questions. You can follow the yellow signs straight to your camp site! • DURING COLD WATER MONTHS -water faucets may be used for filling RV tanks only. Water hoses must be disconnected after filling tanks. No permanent water hose connections will be allowed. • Check In Time -1:00 PM •Check Out Time -11:00 AM ATTRACTIONS - Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge on the Rio Grande - San Luis Valley Museum - Rio Grande Scenic Railroad - Splashland Hot Springs - Blanca Vista Park - Cattails Golf Course - Luther Bean Museum - Ryan Geology Museum - Fort Garland Museum - Zapata Falls - Colorado Gators Reptile Park - Homelake Veterans' History Museum - Monte Vista History Museum - Transportation of the West Museum - Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve - Sanford Museum - UFO Watchtower - Sand Dunes Swimming Pool - Jack Dempsey Museum - Joyful Journey Hot Springs - Sangre de Cristo Heritage Center - Stations of the Cross Shrine - Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Antonito Depot - Fransisco Fort Museum - Rio Grande County Museum - Conejos County Museum - Crestone History Museum - Hazard House Museum - Saguache County Museum - Valley View Hot Springs - Creede History Museum - Creede Underground Mining Museum - Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Chama Depot - Taos Pueblo - Hinsdale County Museum

Dreamweaver's Sanctuary

21 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Crestone, CO

Dreamweaver’s Sanctuary is an evolving artist collaborative project and homestead that focuses on sustainability, creativity, spiritual growth, with mindful community values. We host events and workshops, prepare meals, and we are now offering Usui-Tibetan/Holy Fire and Crystal Reiki for those looking to balance and replenish the Mind, Body and Soul. Expect surprises as we are always incorporating new and fun ideas to enhance your experience and bring unity to the locals of Crestone. In addition to this project, we invite you to join us for Hip Camp. A rustic camping experience in Crestone, Colorado with the most majestic views. About the land: Imagine setting up camp in the high desert of Colorado, resting in the quiet of nature, and awakening to birds singing to you as you lay nestled in an ancient Cottonwood Grove. Next you open your eyes to the Majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, overlooking the Great Sand Dunes. Enjoy a fresh and power packed smoothie to break your overnight fast or join us in our off-grid rustic zen community kitchen and prepare what you so choose. Find yourself a comfortable spot and spend some time in meditation or join others in our Meditation Tent, engage in a peaceful and mindful conversation with other campers, enjoy a garden walk or book a Crystal or Holy Fire Reiki Session. Did we mention the sunsets!? In the evening stargazing is a favorite, as Crestone is a Dark Sky Community. And all of that is just here at the sanctuary! Venture out and find hiking trails, take a short drive and enjoy your day at the sand dunes, enjoy local Hot Springs or visit one of Crestone’s many spiritual centers or temples. While we hope you will choose to stay with us, keep in mind that this is a family friendly environment and we welcome pets. Note that we are 4:20 friendly, but kindly discourage the use of non-recreational or illegal substances and the misuse of alcohol on the premises. We have outdoor solar shower amenities and composting toilets and outhouses. There is a water and tea station available. Wifi is available near our Tech Deck. - Cosmic Kids Yoga 11:30 am in Vimana - Sacred Fire Offering @ Sunset Daily in Vimana Crestone is a very special place and we look forward to meeting you here!

Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing. Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching. New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable. ATTENTION: THE SHOWER HOUSE AND TOILET WILL BE SHUTTING DOWN AND GETTING WINTERIZED OCTOBER 1ST UNTIL MAY 1ST. No fireworks are permitted at any time.

Mudita Camel's Yurt

1 site · Lodging35 acres · Capulin, CO

Eons ago camels roamed through the San Luis Valley and today they roam once again. Come and stay at our yurt enjoying views of the mountains and of the camels and donkeys roaming their home. Take a farm tour and get the chance to pet the camels and maybe even sneak a camel kiss. Enjoy a night stay at the yurt viewing the stars or enjoying a nice fire at the fire pit. Come stay in our yurt and get the chance to meet our little herd of camels and wake up to the views of the gorgeous surroundings! Travel down a few miles of dirt roads and you will find our little oasis of 35 acres. The hard-sided yurt sits right next to the field where our camels and donkeys roam. Set apart from the main house, sitting in Trujillo Canyon, and surrounded by BLM/National Forrest, its the perfect spot for recharging. Located off the beaten path so amazing for star gazing but also close enough to the Sand Dunes for day adventures. Our property is off the grid and allows you to disconnect for a little while and there is a nice creek to go and sit by. Each stay also includes a farm tour if you are interested. The night skies have little light pollution and are perfect for star gazing. We can't wait for you to come and stay with us!Don't take our word for it, guests love their stays with us! "We struck gold finding this magical place. The yurt was so cozy, comfy, and full of tons of extras that exceeded our expectations. We booked our little trip to visit the dunes, but this farm was by far the best part of our trip. We loved our walks to see all the animals. The camels and donkeys were so friendly!"

Dunes Desert Camp

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents320 acres · Hooper, CO

Enjoy your own private desert playground, 320 Acres of pristine wilderness in the shadow of Blanca Peak and in sight of the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Whether you want to explore the valley on a hike, bike, or All Terrain Vehicle, fly over it in a private light aircraft, or plan an expedition to the mountains, Dunes Desert Camp is your staging ground for exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of the San Luis Valley. Located just twenty miles from downtown Alamosa, Dunes Desert Camp offers remoteness and privacy coupled with the convenience of being near a vibrant metropolitan center. Get away from it all, and get back to finding yourself in the desert. We have one large Safari tent with a double bed and 5 two person dome tents fitted with camp cots Sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses and camping equipment is available to rent on site.

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Creekside Kush Kamp elev. 8100

6 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Questa, NM

Enjoy the peaceful, powerful and serene energy of the forest, with the background music of the magical waters flowing from the snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. Forest-bathe at 8100 feet elevation under the cedars, pines, pinons, oaks, aspens and cottonwoods. Dip in the icy cold mountain waters, Wim Hoff-style! Stargaze the magnificent night skies; you can often observe the Milky Way. This is a quiet and breathtaking in northern New Mexico's San Luis Valley area near Ute Mountain, with Mount Blanca visible in neighboring Colorado. It is on a 5 acre private property Wildlife abounds: deer, elk, and the occasional bear. World class hiking in the nearby Latir Wilderness Area and within a few miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers National Monument. Kagyu Mila Guru Stupa, Meditation Temple and labyrinth are one mile away. Ceremonial sweat lodge and vision quest (Lakota tradition} may be available (please inquire). Guided interpretive hikes, laundry and meals can be reserved for an extra charge at our Mountain River Kush Kamp. We offer many amenities and as our campground grows, more will be added. We are the stewards of this land and we practice regenerative farming, gardening and forest health ancient technology. Our Camp Host will give a brief welcome & safety talk upon arrival, and can show you how to find your campsite, the outhouse and shared areas in the Kush Kamp. Many available extras make this an easier and comfy camp experience. There is a common kitchen/cooking area. We limit the number of campsites and campers for sustainability, serenity and privacy, however, guests may encounter other campers at this property. A host is on-site for security and convenience. Other activities in Taos County: horseback riding, skiing, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, frisbee golf, golfing, mountain bike trails, hiking trails, hot springs, atv tours, museums, concerts, farmers markets, trade days, Taos Pueblo and casino. Much more, depending on the season. Bring your own drinking water or be prepared to boil available water. Fire pit will be lit by Camp Host due to fire safety concerns. Propane grill available when fire ban is in effect. Camp catering available, with advance notice. Please inquire. Camp host lives on property.

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Campe Diem!

49 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

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The Mushroom Yurt

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Questa, NM

Off-grid rustic Mushroom yurt. This little yurt can sleep up to four people. It has a bunk bed cot and a queen size tri-fold mattress. There is a picnic table, a fire pit, and an outhouse. Taos is approximately 30 miles, Red River 20 miles and Questa is 9 miles away. Cell service is good with Verizon and T-Mobile. I will provide a small power station to charge your devices. It is heated! Sunshine rd is plowed in the winter, the driveway is not plowed. 4WD/AWD may be needed in winter.

Available this weekend

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Rabbit Hole Ranch

108 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Alamosa East, CO

The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif and the Great Sand Dunes and is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive from both to include Zapata Falls. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer you a place nearby to set up camp and go exploring. Alamosa, the largest town in the SLV, is just 20 minutes away. With a population of around 9,800 Alamosa has that small town feel and has the goods and services you will need. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our two Great Pyrenees are here to help keep you and your pets (and our chickens) safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with all three of our dogs. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, his name is TheoVon and he is huge! Returning this season is KayLee also a GP and and Finn, who is a little Benji lookin rescue from Alaska who just LOVES everyone. :) Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.

Base Camp Family Campground

20 sites · RVs20 acres · Alamosa, CO

Welcome To Your Base Camp Whether your adventure brings you here for just one night, or the entire summer, this is the view you want to wake up to! We have... •Largest Pull Through Sites In The Area-100' x 40' •Big-Rig-Friendly, 60 degree angled sites •Large Private Showers •Best 360 Degree Views •Full Hookups •Free Wi-Fi •Laundry •Close To All Local Attractions •Sandboard & Sand Sled Rentals - https://slv-adventures.square.site •65 Degree Average Summer Temperatures Base Camp Family Campground is operated by the Baker Family. Josh Baker first lived in Southern Colorado in the early 90's as a child, but his parents moved the family away after a short time. His desire to move back here as an adult prompted him to start bringing his own family to Colorado for vacations. They purchased land in the valley in 2014 and moved to Colorado in 2020. They are using all they've learned from years of RVing adventures, to continue the park's mission of providing a clean, affordable, spacious, well-run camping facility, and to be a centrally located "base camp" and hub of information for everything this unique area has to offer. You may feel it when you first enter the valley...this is a special place like no other. You'll be camping on Native American sacred ground, in the shadows of 14,000 ft. mountain peaks, in the largest high-desert alpine valley in the world, that is sprinkled with free-flowing artesian wells, hot springs and wet lands. Water gushes up through the desert floor from aquifers that are continually replenished from the snow that melts from the surrounding mountains. The valley gets 350 days of sunshine each year and less than 8 inches of precipitation, mostly in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Bring a sweater, even if you're here in August. Daily summer temperatures average 65 degrees, and it will get down into the 50's at night. That's perfect camping weather! For native American tribes, including the Utes, Apache, Navajos, and others, this valley is considered the source of life, a place where humans and spirit enter and leave this world. This sipapu, or place of emergence, is believed to be near the sand dunes, in the San Luis Lakes area. The valley was considered so sacred, that no war would be waged here. The tribes would pass each other in peace. Blanca Peak is considered the eastern boundary and doorway into Dinetah, the traditional Navajo homeland. Today, 30 spiritual centers, representing religions from all over the world, are located in the Crestone area at the north end of the valley. The ET Connection As if all of the mountains, deserts, hot springs, and sacred ground weren't enough, The San Luis Valley is also known as a UFO hot spot! UFO sightings have been reported as far back as the 1600's. You'll want to visit The UFO Watch tower, on highway 17, "The Cosmic Highway". Owner, Judy Messoline is a wealth of information on the subject. • EXPRESS CHECK IN - We'll send you an email the day before your arrival, with your site number, wifi password, etc. There is no need to check in at the host site when you arrive, unless you have questions. You can follow the yellow signs straight to your camp site! • DURING COLD WATER MONTHS -water faucets may be used for filling RV tanks only. Water hoses must be disconnected after filling tanks. No permanent water hose connections will be allowed. • Check In Time -1:00 PM •Check Out Time -11:00 AM ATTRACTIONS - Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge on the Rio Grande - San Luis Valley Museum - Rio Grande Scenic Railroad - Splashland Hot Springs - Blanca Vista Park - Cattails Golf Course - Luther Bean Museum - Ryan Geology Museum - Fort Garland Museum - Zapata Falls - Colorado Gators Reptile Park - Homelake Veterans' History Museum - Monte Vista History Museum - Transportation of the West Museum - Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve - Sanford Museum - UFO Watchtower - Sand Dunes Swimming Pool - Jack Dempsey Museum - Joyful Journey Hot Springs - Sangre de Cristo Heritage Center - Stations of the Cross Shrine - Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Antonito Depot - Fransisco Fort Museum - Rio Grande County Museum - Conejos County Museum - Crestone History Museum - Hazard House Museum - Saguache County Museum - Valley View Hot Springs - Creede History Museum - Creede Underground Mining Museum - Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Chama Depot - Taos Pueblo - Hinsdale County Museum

Mono Loco Flats

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Fort Garland, CO

Mono Loco Flats sits on a Mesa nestled in the Sangre de Cristo mountains near Sangre De Cristo creek and La Veta Pass. Growing up in Southern Colorado I was fortunate to explore this zone as a kid and I feel fortunate that I can share Mono Loco Flats with others. Set up camp and enjoy sweeping views of Mount Blanca and the surrounding Sangre De Cristo mountain range. This 15 acre camp is situated just off highway 160 for easy access, approximately 25 minutes from The Great Sand Dunes Natianal park and Zapata Falls. Mono Loco Flats is an excellent home base for exploring the San Luis Valley. Sangre de Cristo Creek is a short hike or drive to the south. Fort Garland is a 10 minute drive. This Mesa provides 360 panoramic views with epic sunrise and sunset views of Mount Blanca. Wild horses and prong horned antelope may wander the Mesa as you enjoy your camp. The natural beauty of these three campsites are worth protecting so please if you pack it in, pack it out. This is a dry camp with no toilet or garbage facilities. Please treat this land with respect so that future campers may enjoy the land free of rubbish. All three campsites are accessible with any type of vehicle and the long driveway and turnaround can accommodate any trailer or RV up to 20'. So please come and enjoy the Sangre De Cristo mountains at Mono Loco Flats:) @monkeypuzzlespace = Mono Loco Flats on Instagram

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing. Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching. New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable. ATTENTION: THE SHOWER HOUSE AND TOILET WILL BE SHUTTING DOWN AND GETTING WINTERIZED OCTOBER 1ST UNTIL MAY 1ST. No fireworks are permitted at any time.

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(97)

Mono Loco Flats

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Fort Garland, CO

Mono Loco Flats sits on a Mesa nestled in the Sangre de Cristo mountains near Sangre De Cristo creek and La Veta Pass. Growing up in Southern Colorado I was fortunate to explore this zone as a kid and I feel fortunate that I can share Mono Loco Flats with others. Set up camp and enjoy sweeping views of Mount Blanca and the surrounding Sangre De Cristo mountain range. This 15 acre camp is situated just off highway 160 for easy access, approximately 25 minutes from The Great Sand Dunes Natianal park and Zapata Falls. Mono Loco Flats is an excellent home base for exploring the San Luis Valley. Sangre de Cristo Creek is a short hike or drive to the south. Fort Garland is a 10 minute drive. This Mesa provides 360 panoramic views with epic sunrise and sunset views of Mount Blanca. Wild horses and prong horned antelope may wander the Mesa as you enjoy your camp. The natural beauty of these three campsites are worth protecting so please if you pack it in, pack it out. This is a dry camp with no toilet or garbage facilities. Please treat this land with respect so that future campers may enjoy the land free of rubbish. All three campsites are accessible with any type of vehicle and the long driveway and turnaround can accommodate any trailer or RV up to 20'. So please come and enjoy the Sangre De Cristo mountains at Mono Loco Flats:) @monkeypuzzlespace = Mono Loco Flats on Instagram

Base Camp Family Campground

20 sites · RVs20 acres · Alamosa, CO

Welcome To Your Base Camp Whether your adventure brings you here for just one night, or the entire summer, this is the view you want to wake up to! We have... •Largest Pull Through Sites In The Area-100' x 40' •Big-Rig-Friendly, 60 degree angled sites •Large Private Showers •Best 360 Degree Views •Full Hookups •Free Wi-Fi •Laundry •Close To All Local Attractions •Sandboard & Sand Sled Rentals - https://slv-adventures.square.site •65 Degree Average Summer Temperatures Base Camp Family Campground is operated by the Baker Family. Josh Baker first lived in Southern Colorado in the early 90's as a child, but his parents moved the family away after a short time. His desire to move back here as an adult prompted him to start bringing his own family to Colorado for vacations. They purchased land in the valley in 2014 and moved to Colorado in 2020. They are using all they've learned from years of RVing adventures, to continue the park's mission of providing a clean, affordable, spacious, well-run camping facility, and to be a centrally located "base camp" and hub of information for everything this unique area has to offer. You may feel it when you first enter the valley...this is a special place like no other. You'll be camping on Native American sacred ground, in the shadows of 14,000 ft. mountain peaks, in the largest high-desert alpine valley in the world, that is sprinkled with free-flowing artesian wells, hot springs and wet lands. Water gushes up through the desert floor from aquifers that are continually replenished from the snow that melts from the surrounding mountains. The valley gets 350 days of sunshine each year and less than 8 inches of precipitation, mostly in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Bring a sweater, even if you're here in August. Daily summer temperatures average 65 degrees, and it will get down into the 50's at night. That's perfect camping weather! For native American tribes, including the Utes, Apache, Navajos, and others, this valley is considered the source of life, a place where humans and spirit enter and leave this world. This sipapu, or place of emergence, is believed to be near the sand dunes, in the San Luis Lakes area. The valley was considered so sacred, that no war would be waged here. The tribes would pass each other in peace. Blanca Peak is considered the eastern boundary and doorway into Dinetah, the traditional Navajo homeland. Today, 30 spiritual centers, representing religions from all over the world, are located in the Crestone area at the north end of the valley. The ET Connection As if all of the mountains, deserts, hot springs, and sacred ground weren't enough, The San Luis Valley is also known as a UFO hot spot! UFO sightings have been reported as far back as the 1600's. You'll want to visit The UFO Watch tower, on highway 17, "The Cosmic Highway". Owner, Judy Messoline is a wealth of information on the subject. • EXPRESS CHECK IN - We'll send you an email the day before your arrival, with your site number, wifi password, etc. There is no need to check in at the host site when you arrive, unless you have questions. You can follow the yellow signs straight to your camp site! • DURING COLD WATER MONTHS -water faucets may be used for filling RV tanks only. Water hoses must be disconnected after filling tanks. No permanent water hose connections will be allowed. • Check In Time -1:00 PM •Check Out Time -11:00 AM ATTRACTIONS - Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge on the Rio Grande - San Luis Valley Museum - Rio Grande Scenic Railroad - Splashland Hot Springs - Blanca Vista Park - Cattails Golf Course - Luther Bean Museum - Ryan Geology Museum - Fort Garland Museum - Zapata Falls - Colorado Gators Reptile Park - Homelake Veterans' History Museum - Monte Vista History Museum - Transportation of the West Museum - Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve - Sanford Museum - UFO Watchtower - Sand Dunes Swimming Pool - Jack Dempsey Museum - Joyful Journey Hot Springs - Sangre de Cristo Heritage Center - Stations of the Cross Shrine - Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Antonito Depot - Fransisco Fort Museum - Rio Grande County Museum - Conejos County Museum - Crestone History Museum - Hazard House Museum - Saguache County Museum - Valley View Hot Springs - Creede History Museum - Creede Underground Mining Museum - Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Chama Depot - Taos Pueblo - Hinsdale County Museum

Penitente Canyon Tin Can Camp

5 sites · Lodging200 acres · Center, CO

Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley at the entrance to Penitente Canyon and Special Recreation Management Area and 50 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, San Luis Valley Great Outdoors welcomes all guests to come and enjoy their cabins at Tin Can Camp. Tin Can Camp is located within 200 acres of Colorado State Trust Land at roughly 8,000 feet above sea level. The landscape is arid high desert with scattered groves of piñon and juniper trees. The camp serves as a convenient home base for launching adventures across the San Luis Valley to various local Hot Springs, archeological sites, and other small town local attractions. For the more adventurous guests, there is recreation right from Tin Can Camp with The Valleys largest trail system and climbing area less than a mile away and access to the vast expanse of the Rio Grande National Forest. The cabins are "micro homes" outfitted with modern conveniences. Each cabin has solar power, a propane heater, a compact kitchen with a sink, water jugs, and pump, two full size loft beds, a small table with chairs, an incinerator toilet, and a covered porch. Incinerating toilets are self-contained waste management systems that burn human waste instead of flushing it into a sewer or septic system. These toilets use propane gas to incinerate waste at high temperatures, reducing it to a small amount of sterile ash. Incinerating toilets are commonly used in locations where traditional plumbing is impractical, such as remote cabins and environmentally sensitive areas. They are valued for their efficiency, minimal environmental impact, and the elimination of the need for water or chemical treatments. There is odor associated with the incineration process. Guests should know there is no water available on the property. You will need to bring water for all your needs. This includes cooking, washing, drinking, and for putting out fires. Guest should plan 2 gallons of water per person per day. A public well/pumphouse is at the intersection of County Road 38A and Road 40G (37.836363, -106.271551)(inoperable as of 7/11/2024- BLM working to fix it). Tin Can Camp is adjacent to the future Sangre de Cristo Dark Sky Reserve, and the property has spectacular views of the Milky Way Galaxy. Each cabin has a fire ring for guests to relax and enjoy the dark nighttime sky. Wood collecting on the property is not permitted, so guests must bring their own firewood. As mentioned, the property is located at the entrance to Penitente Canyon. Penitente Canyon is a Nationally-renowned climbing destination with more than 400 climbing routes. Penitente Canyon also has 30+ miles of non-motorized trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian activities and guest have direct trail access from camp! Guests can ride mountain bikes directly from the property. There are numerous recreation, sightseeing, historical and cultural, and agricultural tourism opportunities in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area. Gas, ice, water, and some groceries can be found nearby at the La Garita Trading Post, which has operated since 1913. The La Garita Trading Post is in a historic log cabin and serves the best local-beef burgers in the San Luis Valley.

Rabbit Hole Ranch

108 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Alamosa East, CO

The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif and the Great Sand Dunes and is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive from both to include Zapata Falls. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer you a place nearby to set up camp and go exploring. Alamosa, the largest town in the SLV, is just 20 minutes away. With a population of around 9,800 Alamosa has that small town feel and has the goods and services you will need. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our two Great Pyrenees are here to help keep you and your pets (and our chickens) safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with all three of our dogs. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, his name is TheoVon and he is huge! Returning this season is KayLee also a GP and and Finn, who is a little Benji lookin rescue from Alaska who just LOVES everyone. :) Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

84%

(25)

Rio Grande National Forest

Alpine, Colorado

98%

(62)

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Crestone, Colorado

89%

(72)

San Isabel National Forest

Smeltertown, Colorado

San Luis State Wildlife Area

Hooper, Colorado

92%

(38)

Carson National Forest

La Madera, New Mexico

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Alamosa guide

Overview

Experience a new side of Colorado when you camp near Alamosa. From the San Luis Valley, you're just minutes from dense forests and rolling sand dunes just begging to be explored.

It's easy to get stoked about Great Sand Dunes National Park. Outdoor lovers come from across the country to see the jaw-dropping dune field that covers 30 square miles. Hike the tallest dunes on the continent—the views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Blanca Peak are worth the climb.

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Try sandboarding or sand sledding down the dunes. (Get your rental gear in Alamosa). Afterward, cool down in refreshing Medano Creek. After a day in the dunes, pitch a tent on the sand—all you need is a backpacking permit. The park also boasts a developed campground, Pinon Flats.

Keep in mind the dunes can get swamped in the summer. For a less crowded alternative, check out San Luis Lake State Park. The secluded campground has RV sites and tent sites but remember to BYOW (bring your own wood).

For stunning views of the dune field, Zapata Falls Campground is your best bet. This rustic state camping area's 9,000-foot elevation promises sweeping vistas of rugged Colorado terrain. Keep in mind all sites are first-come, first-served.

On the other side of Alamosa, you find Rio Grande National Forest. Here, you can enjoy hiking trails and tent camping amid densely wooded hills. You can even catch some dinner at Terrace Reservoir.

Around Alamosa, a huge range of RV parks, rustic tent camps, and decked out cabins are available. Some are just steps from the Rio Grande, which cuts through the city. Whatever your camping style, it's easy to find the perfect spot within minutes of the area's state and national parks.

Wondering when to plan your trip? With its cool winters and mild summers, Alamosa draws campers year round. Visit in January to explore snow-dusted dunes, or get here in August for some of the best starry skies in south central Colorado.