Camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park: All You Need to Know

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, located in southern Colorado, is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. This unique landscape, with its vast dunes, alpine peaks, and lush grasslands, offers a one-of-a-kind camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re seeking solitude under a starlit sky, or an adventurous getaway filled with hiking, sandboarding, and possible wildlife encounters, camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Why Camp at Great Sand Dunes National Park?

Camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park allows you to immerse yourself in one of the most surreal landscapes in the United States.

One of four national parks in Colorado, Great Sand Dunes offers opportunities for stargazing, exploring diverse ecosystems, and enjoying unparalleled views of the towering dunes framed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Its remote location ensures minimal light pollution, making it a prime spot for astrophotography and observing celestial objects, which enhances your camping experience even more.

Camping Options in Great Sand Dunes National Park

The park provides several camping options, ranging from an excellent developed campground to remote backcountry sites. Whether you prefer the convenience of an established campground or the solitude of dispersed camping, Great Sand Dunes National Park has an option for every type of camper.

1. Piñon Flats Campground

Piñon Flats Campground is the park’s main developed campground, located just one mile from the dune field. This campground is ideal for families, first-time visitors, and those who want easy access to park amenities.

Features:

• 88 individual campsites (available seasonally from April through October)
• $20 per night per site
• Restrooms with flush toilets and potable water
• Fire pits and picnic tables
• RV sites (no hookups)
• Close proximity to the dunes and Medano Creek (seasonal)
• Drinks, snacks, ice, firewood, and selected camping supplies are sold at the camp store between Loops 1 and 2

This is one of my favorite campgrounds in the entire National Park System. It offers easy access to the park’s famed sand dunes, while certain sites provide a truly spectacular view of the dunes.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (spring and summer), as sites fill up quickly. You can reserve a site at Piñon Flats Campground on Recreation.gov.

2. Backcountry Camping in the Dunes

For a truly immersive experience, backcountry camping among the dunes is an unforgettable adventure.

With a $6 permit from Recreation.gov, campers can set up tents within two backcountry camping zones in the sand dunes. There are seven designated sites along the Sand Ramp Trail and twenty non-designated sites in the Dunes Backcountry area.

Guidelines:

• Hike at least 1.5 miles from the main parking area to reach designated camping areas
• Practice Leave No Trace principles
• Be prepared for extreme temperature fluctuations (hot days, cold nights)
• Bring plenty of water (there is no water source in the dunes)
• Make sure you practice your navigation and map reading skills
• Be mindful of high winds that can make camping challenging

3. Medano Pass Primitive Road Camping

For those with high-clearance 4WD vehicles, the rugged 22-mile Medano Pass Primitive Road offers dispersed camping along the scenic Medano Creek.

Because of the road’s occasional soft sand and numerous creek crossings, these sites provide a more rugged camping experience that requires proper planning and preparation.

It’s important to note this road is passable only in the drier months of the year, usually late-May to November.

Features:

• Free, first-come, first-served sites
• No amenities (must bring all supplies, including water)
• Beautiful mountain and creekside views
• Great for those looking to combine camping with off-roading

4. Nearby Private and Public Campgrounds

If the park’s campgrounds are full, or if you’re looking for additional amenities like showers and electricity, several nearby campgrounds and RV parks are available in the surrounding San Luis Valley.

Great options include the Oasis Campground, which is just outside of the park’s boundary, the primitive Zapata Falls Campground, and glamping at Rustic Rook Resort.

What to Bring for Your Camping Trip

Preparing properly for your camping trip will enhance your experience and ensure your safety in this unique environment. Here are some essential items to pack:

• Tent and stakes (heavy-duty stakes for securing in sandy soil and against high winds)
• Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures, as nights can be chilly even in summer)
• Plenty of water (there are limited water sources in the park)
• High-energy snacks and meals (pack extra food in case of unexpected delays)
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and long sleeves to protect against sunburn)
• Sturdy hiking boots or closed-toe sandals (sand gets hot during midday)
• Headlamp or flashlight (for nighttime exploration, night hikes in the dunes are phenomenal)
• Portable stove or firewood (check fire regulations before your visit and make sure to buy firewood locally)
• Backpack for carrying essentials on hikes

Best Time to Camp at Great Sand Dunes

The best time to camp at Great Sand Dunes National Park is during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F on the sand, while winter nights can be frigid. Here’s what to expect in each season:

• Spring (April – May): Mild temperatures, Medano Creek reaches peak flow, popular time for visitors.
• Summer (June – August): Hot daytime temperatures, cool nights, afternoon thunderstorms are common.
• Fall (September – October): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, beautiful foliage in the surrounding mountains.

Activities to Enjoy While Camping

Camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park provides access to a range of outdoor activities, making it an adventure-packed experience.

1. Hiking the Dunes

The highlight of any visit is hiking the massive dunes. There are no designated trails, so visitors can explore freely. Popular hikes include:

• High Dune on First Ridge (2.5 miles round trip, 688 feet elevation gain)
• Star Dune (the second-tallest dune in North America, about 6 miles round trip, 736 feet elevation gain)

2. Sandboarding and Sand Sledding

Bring or rent a sandboard or sand sled from local outfitters. The most convenient place to rent a sandboard or sled is at the Oasis Store, which is only 4 miles from the park’s visitor center.

Nearby towns like Alamosa, Blanca, or Mosca also have outfitters that rent out equipment. Sliding down North America’s tallest sand dunes is one of the most extraordinary experiences you can have in the national parks. It’s so much fun and this activity alone is worth the trip.

3. Stargazing and Night Photography

With some of the darkest skies in the country, the park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. Bring a telescope or camera to enjoy or capture breathtaking night sky views.

4. Wildlife Viewing

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, elk, black bears, bobcats, and a variety of bird species. Early mornings and evenings are the best times for wildlife spotting.

Learn what to do when encountering a black bear here.

5. Medano Creek Wading

In late spring and early summer, Medano Creek forms a shallow stream at the base of the dunes, creating a beach-like atmosphere perfect for wading and cooling off.

This is a very popular area among kids, who love splashing in the bubbling water, while pets are also allowed here!

6. Scenic Drives

Drive the Medano Pass Primitive Road for a rugged off-road adventure leading into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering breathtaking views and access to remote hiking trails and campsites.

Important Safety Tips

Camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park can be a thrilling experience, but it’s essential to be prepared for the unique challenges of this environment.

• Be aware of weather conditions: High winds and sudden thunderstorms are common, especially in summer, so check forecasts and plan accordingly.
• Stay hydrated: The dry air and high altitude can lead to dehydration quickly.
• Protect against the sun: Wear sun-protective clothing and apply sunscreen frequently.
• Watch for wildlife: Store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
• Respect Leave No Trace principles: Pack out all trash and minimize your impact on the environment.

Camping at Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a stunning and otherworldly landscape. Whether you’re hiking the towering dunes, sandboarding down their slopes, or simply gazing at the endless stars above, this park provides a truly unforgettable experience.

By preparing properly and respecting the park’s natural beauty, you can make the most of your camping adventure in one of America’s most unique national parks.