Details
11999 State Highway 150, Mosca, CO, 81146
National Park ServiceLast Updated: December 6, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
The most popular and unique backpacking option is camping in the 30-square-mile dunefield, beyond the major dune ridgeline (about 1.5 mile hike minimum over dunes). Enjoy wide open views of the starry sky or a bright moonlit night. Designated sites are also available in the trees of the foothills, or camping is available in higher forests of Great Sand Dunes National Preserve. Reserve national park backpacking permits for the dunes or foothills through recreation.gov
Campsite Details
Weather
Spring can sometimes bring high winds, mainly in the afternoon. Temperatures may vary widely: highs may reach into the 70s F, or only into the 30s F with snow and an even colder wind chill. In summer, daytime high temperatures average 75-80 degrees F. However, sand surface temperatures can soar to 150 degrees F on sunny summer afternoons. Fall is generally mild, with Indian summer days. Highs average in the 60s - 70s F, with chilly nights in the 20s - 30s F. Frigid temperatures are the norm in winter.
Amenities
Cell Phone Reception
Potable Water
Directions
To access the main park area, including the Dunes Parking Lot and backpacking trailheads, take CO Highway 150 from the south or County Road 6 from the west. Both are paved highways.
Rates & Fees
Backpacking Permit Fee
Fee to make a required reservation for a backpacking permit through recreation.gov
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Gas stoves onlyRegulations Overview
- Maximum of six people per party/ group at all times - Gas stoves only; no campfires or wood burning stoves allowed - Dogs are not permitted in the dunes backcountry. Please visit our Pets web page for detailed information and maps of permitted pet areas. - Bears rarely visit the interior of the dunefield. Bear-proof containers are encouraged, but not required. - - - - Sand stakes are encouraged as most standard tent stakes do not work on the sand dunes. Plastic bags filled with sand can also help anchor your tent. - Plan to camp in the dunes only when weather is calm and clear to avoid blowing sand or dangerous thunderstorms with lightning; check the park weather forecast on our Weather webpage.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
Dunes wheelchairs are available for free checkout from the visitor center, but require pushing through soft sand. It is beyond the average person's strength to push another adult over the first high ridge of dunes to camp in the backcountry. Backpacking sites in the foothills are not wheelchair accessible.
Internet Information
Closest internet is in Alamosa, 40 miles southwest
Cell Phone Information
Cell phone service is limited. A few carriers can reach the national park if you have line-of-sight with Alamosa.
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
RVs and trailers may park at trailheads for backpacking, but visitors may not sleep in them at trailheads.
RV Maximum Length
0
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
Backpacking into the dunefield and forested sites requires hiking or horsepacking over rough, uneven terrain, soft sand, and elevations over 8,200 feet. Weather can change quickly in the Rocky Mountains. There are no restroom facilities in the backcountry.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Classifications
Primitive Camping Areas
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!