Tallest dunes in North America, with free BLM camping in the San Luis Valley nearby.
Great Sand Dunes NP has 750-foot dunes piled against the Sangre de Cristo range — the tallest in North America. The park campground books out, but BLM land just outside has free dispersed sites with the same view.
Why it's special
Surreal dune landscape against snow-capped 14,000-ft peaks, dark skies, and free camping just outside the park boundary.
Best time to go
May through October.
Getting there
From Alamosa, CO east on US-160 then north on CO-150.
Know before you go
- Park entrance fee or America the Beautiful pass.
- Dune sand hits 150°F midday — go early or late.
- Free dispersed on Zapata Falls/BLM area south of the park.
- Medano Creek (May–June) is a unique seasonal river over the dunes.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Sled rental in Alamosa — sandboarding the dunes is a blast.
- Sunrise from the dune ridge is unforgettable.
- UFO Watchtower is a kitschy nearby roadside attraction worth a stop.
- Combine with the San Juans for a great loop.
Combine with
San Juans, Crestone, Taos NM.