Details
National Park ServiceLast Updated: December 7, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Roadside camping is permitted at 21 campsites in Great Sand Dunes National Preserve beginning 5.2 miles from where the road begins near Piñon Flats Campground. These designated sites are free of charge and first-come, first-served. All 21 sites fill on summer weekends. Passable only in the warmer months and only with high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles. This road crosses areas of deep sand, traverses Medano Creek nine times, and passes through excellent habitat for bighorn sheep.
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
Potable Water
Food Storage Lockers
Directions
The south entrance to Medano Pass Road begins just below Pinon Flats Campground, one mile north of the visitor center. The road's north access is in the Wet Mountain Valley, on Highway 69 south of Westcliffe.
Rates & Fees
Free Camping in Sites along Medano Pass Road
Campsites are free and first-come, first-served on the Medano Pass Road.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Fires are permitted only within metal fire rings. You may collect dead and down wood 4 inches or less in diameter; do not break branches off trees.Regulations Overview
- Camping is permitted in designated, marked sites only in the national preserve. No permits are necessary. - Tents must be located within 40 feet of the front of the bear box at each site. - Pets must be leashed or restrained at all times. - Fires only in existing fire rings; put out completely with water. Gather dead and down firewood 4” or less diameter. - No off-road driving. Vehicles must be highway-legal in Colorado. Park only in designated campsites or parking areas. - Secure food, coolers, toiletries, and trash from black bears. Lock them in the bear boxes provided at most sites. - All trash, including orange peels, egg shells and toilet paper, must be removed. Bury human waste 6” deep.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
None
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
Only a full-size, 4WD SUV, Jeep or truck can reach these campsites.
RV Maximum Length
0
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
While a full-size 4WD SUV, Jeep or truck can reach these campsites, they are not ADA accessible. There are no restrooms, paved surfaces, or buildings in Medano Canyon.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
Unpaved Roads - 4WD/High clearance required
Classifications
Designated Primitive Campsites
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