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Zapata Falls Campground: A High-Altitude Oasis

High-altitude camping with stunning views and a unique waterfall hike near Great Sand Dunes National Park in Southern Colorado.

4.7

Nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Zapata Falls Campground offers stunning views of the San Luis Valley and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. It's a popular base for exploring the area's natural beauty, including the unique experience of hiking to Zapata Falls itself.

A brief summary to Zapata Falls Campground

Local tips

  • Bring water shoes or sandals for the hike to Zapata Falls, as you'll need to wade through the creek to reach the base of the falls.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially during the summer months, and bring layers of clothing.
  • Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Store food properly in the provided bear-proof lockers to avoid attracting wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 150, turn east onto Zapata Falls Road (BLM Road 5415). Follow the unpaved road for approximately 3.5 miles to reach the campground entrance. The road is generally accessible to most vehicles, but can be bumpy and is not plowed in winter. Parking is available at each campsite. There are no fees for parking beyond the camping fees.

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Discover more about Zapata Falls Campground

Zapata Falls Campground, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is a gateway to the rugged beauty of Southern Colorado. Situated at 9,088 feet in elevation, the campground boasts panoramic views of the San Luis Valley, the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the San Juan Mountains, and the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The campground's location provides spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and night skies perfect for stargazing. The campground has 23 single campsites, 1 group site, and a camp host site nestled among piñon pines. Some sites are designed for tent camping, while others can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 50 feet. Each site is equipped with a table, fire ring, grill, and food storage locker. Vault toilets and trash bins are available throughout the campground. Note that there is no potable water available, so visitors must bring their own. The main attraction near the campground is Zapata Falls. A half-mile trail leads to the falls, but reaching them requires wading through the cold waters of South Zapata Creek. The falls cascade 25 feet through a narrow, rocky canyon, creating a refreshing mist on warm days. The hike to the falls can be slippery, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The Zapata Falls Special Recreation Management Area is rich in history and geology. The name "Zapata" is Spanish for shoe and is tied to the history of settlement in the San Luis Valley. The valley itself was formed by geologic activity along the Rio Grande Rift, creating the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the flat plain of the valley.

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