Piñon Flats Campground: Gateway to the Great Sand Dunes
Camp beneath the towering dunes and majestic peaks at Great Sand Dunes National Park's premier campground.
Nestled at the base of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Piñon Flats Campground serves as the primary basecamp for exploring Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Open from April to October, the campground offers convenient access to the towering dunes and other park attractions.
A brief summary to Piñon Flats Campground
- Great Sand Dunes NP&P, 11999 CO-150, Mosca, CO, 81146, US
- +1719-378-6395
- Visit website
Local tips
- Reservations are essential, especially during summer. Book up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov.
- Arrive prepared for varying weather conditions. The campground is at a high elevation, so temperatures can fluctuate.
- Bring firewood or purchase it locally. Collecting firewood within the park is prohibited.
- Protect your food from bears. Use the provided bear lockers to store all food and scented items.
- Enjoy the dark skies. Great Sand Dunes is a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering incredible stargazing opportunities.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center, drive north on the main park road for approximately one mile. The campground entrance will be on your left. Follow the signs to your reserved campsite. Parking is available at each individual site. Be aware that during peak season, traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends.
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Walking
From the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center, follow the Wellington Ditch Trail north. This trail connects to the campground. The walk is approximately one mile and offers scenic views of the dunes and surrounding landscape. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, as the trail can be exposed to the sun.
Discover more about Piñon Flats Campground
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Sand Dunes Parking
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Sand Dunes National Park, the tallest dunes in North America, from this convenient parking area.
Sierra Blanca Historical Information Panels
31.0 km
Uncover the rich history of Alamosa at the Sierra Blanca Historical Information Panels, where stories of the past come alive amidst stunning landscapes.
La Veta Pass-Uptop Historic District
31.5 km
Explore the rich history and breathtaking scenery at La Veta Pass-Uptop Historic District, a hidden gem in Colorado's stunning landscapes.
The Secret Garden and Grotto
40.8 km
Explore the beauty of nature at The Secret Garden and Grotto, a tranquil escape in Alamosa, Colorado, perfect for relaxation and inspiration.
Amelia Earhart Memorial
42.6 km
Visit the Amelia Earhart Memorial in Alamosa, Colorado, and immerse yourself in the history of aviation while enjoying breathtaking mountain views.
Sbarro
43.3 km
Savor the authentic taste of Italy at Sbarro in Alamosa, offering delicious pizza, pasta, and more in a friendly, casual atmosphere.
Knee Knockers Bar & Grill
43.8 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Knee Knockers Bar & Grill in Alamosa—where every meal is a delicious adventure amidst stunning Colorado scenery.
State Ave River Trail access
43.8 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Alamosa at the State Ave River Trail, featuring scenic paths and abundant wildlife for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Alamosa City Hall
44.0 km
Explore the historic Alamosa City Hall, a charming civic landmark that reflects the community's heritage and dedication to public service.
Alamosa Public Library
44.0 km
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Nino's Del Sol LLC
44.1 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Latin cuisine at Nino's Del Sol in Alamosa, Colorado, where every dish tells a story of culture and flavor.
Calvillo's Mexican Restaurant
44.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Mexico at Calvillo's Mexican Restaurant, Alamosa's favorite spot for delicious cuisine and mouthwatering desserts.
Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area
44.1 km
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Mi Taquito
44.1 km
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The Carver House
44.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wellington Ditch Trail
1.3 km
An easy, scenic trail in Great Sand Dunes National Park, following a historic ditch with views of dunes and mountains.
Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center
1.6 km
Start your adventure at Great Sand Dunes National Park with interactive exhibits, expert advice, and essential resources at the Visitor Center.
Escape Dunes
3.0 km
Discover solitude and stunning views at Escape Dunes, a backcountry camping spot in Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Star Dune
4.7 km
Hike North America's tallest dune at Great Sand Dunes National Park for panoramic views and a challenging desert experience.
Indian Grove
4.8 km
Discover a unique blend of nature and Native American history at Indian Grove, where scarred ponderosa pines whisper tales of the past.
Mountain Master Off-Road Tours
5.3 km
Experience the thrill of off-road adventures and the stunning landscapes of Colorado with Mountain Master Off-Road Tours, your gateway to the great outdoors.
Great Sand Dunes Oasis
7.0 km
Your adventure begins here! Campground, cabins, restaurant, and store at the entrance to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
10.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, where towering dunes meet stunning mountain landscapes.
Zapata Ranch Preserve
12.9 km
Explore a unique Colorado landscape where conservation meets ranching, bordering the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Zapata Ranch
13.0 km
Experience the American West at Zapata Ranch: a unique blend of ranching, conservation, and stunning landscapes near Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Zapata Falls Trailhead
14.6 km
Discover the hidden beauty of Zapata Falls near the Great Sand Dunes. A short hike to a refreshing and unique waterfall experience in Colorado.
Zapata Falls
14.6 km
Discover a hidden waterfall oasis near Great Sand Dunes National Park. Hike through a cool canyon to a unique cave with a 25-foot waterfall!
Zapata Falls Campground
14.8 km
High-altitude camping with stunning views & a hidden waterfall near Great Sand Dunes National Park in the San Luis Valley.
Liberty Gate
21.9 km
Explore Colorado's wild side: Hike through grasslands, witness stunning mountain views, and discover the serene beauty of Liberty Gate.
San Luis State Wildlife Area
22.2 km
Discover stunning views, camping, fishing, and wildlife near Great Sand Dunes National Park at San Luis State Wildlife Area in Colorado.
Essential places to dine
The Great Sand Dunes Oasis Restaurant
7.0 km
Experience delicious American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at The Great Sand Dunes Oasis Restaurant near Colorado's iconic sand dunes.
Country Kitchen - Alamosa
43.1 km
Discover comfort food at Country Kitchen in Alamosa – where family-friendly dining meets delicious American breakfasts.
4th Street Grille
44.0 km
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El Super Taco
44.1 km
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Hunan
44.1 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine and fresh sushi at Hunan in Alamosa - a culinary journey awaits!
All Valley Cafe
44.1 km
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Thai House
44.2 km
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Mammoth Spud Cafe
44.4 km
Experience deliciously creative potato dishes at Mammoth Spud Cafe in Alamosa, Colorado - where every bite tells a story.
Thai Hut
44.5 km
Discover authentic Thai flavors in Alamosa at Thai Hut – where every dish tells a story.
Pizza Hut
44.6 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Alamosa - perfect for families and travelers craving comfort food.
Siam Cuisine Alamosa Thai & Sushi
44.7 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Alamosa at Siam Cuisine – where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Pizza Hut Express
44.8 km
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Domino's Pizza
44.9 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken wings at Domino's Pizza in Alamosa - your go-to spot for tasty takeout!
Sonic Drive-In
45.0 km
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Campus Café
45.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great sand dunes Oasis sled rental
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Primitive Road Campsites
9.6 km
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Sand Dunes Recreation
31.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Sand Dunes Recreation, a family-friendly oasis in Colorado featuring a heated pool, restaurant, and gift shop.
Blue Earth Design LLC
32.2 km
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Crestone Creative Trade Co.
32.5 km
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Higher Elevation: A Recreational Cannabis Boutique
32.5 km
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Elephant Cloud Market The Cloud Station
32.5 km
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Sacred Spirit Lightwork
32.5 km
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Crestone Mercantile
32.6 km
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Sinclair Gas Station
33.8 km
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SpinDrift SandBoards
34.5 km
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Red Rock General Store
34.5 km
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Heaven To Home
43.1 km
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Dagglebeez
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Wet Mountain Treasures
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Great Sand Dunes Lodge
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Rustic Rook Resort
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The Steel Box Bar
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The Hooper Junction & Ruby Rose Bakery / Cafe
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Prep Fuel SLV
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Alpine Lodge
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The Sanctuary
44.2 km
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Bank Shot Sports Bar & Pool Hall
45.2 km
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Crafty Canary Brewery
65.1 km
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Mellow Moon Lodge
74.5 km
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Bernies Bar
79.5 km
Bernies Bar in Cañon City, Colorado: Your go-to spot for great drinks, friendly faces, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Royal Gorge.
Defiance Night Club
80.5 km
Experience the energetic nightlife at Defiance Night Club in Cañon City, Colorado, where fun, music, and great drinks await.
McClure's Saloon at World's End
80.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local charm at McClure's Saloon in Cañon City, Colorado, where great drinks and friendly faces await.
The Handlebar
80.6 km
Discover The Handlebar in Cañon City, where delicious food and a cozy atmosphere await travelers seeking a memorable dining experience.
My Brother's Place
80.8 km
Experience the warmth and charm of My Brother's Place, a local bar in Cañon City, offering an extensive drink menu and a friendly atmosphere for all.
