About Pinyon Campground — Great Sand Dunes NP
The tallest sand dunes in North America rise dramatically from a high-altitude Colorado valley, with
14,000-foot Sangre de Cristo peaks as a backdrop. Sandboarding, sand castle building, and wading in Medano Creek
(a seasonal creek with wave-like surges) make this a family favorite.
Highlights
- Star Dune — highest dune at 750 feet above valley floor
- Medano Creek sandboarding area (May–June peak flow)
- High Dune loop hike for summit views
- Sangre de Cristo mountains for hiking and camping
- Extraordinary dark sky stargazing at high altitude
Directions & How to Get There
From Alamosa, CO: Take US-160 E to CO-150 N for 19 miles to the park entrance. From Denver: Take I-25 S to
Walsenburg, then US-160 W to CO-150 N, approximately 4.5 hours. The main campground (Pinyon Flats) is 1.5 miles
past the visitor center.
Nearby Attractions
- Great Sand Dunes (park entrance to base is 0.5 mi)
- Medano Creek (seasonal, April–June best)
- Zapata Falls (5 mi)
- San Luis Lakes State Park (9 mi)
- Crestone (25 mi)
Insider Tips
- Sand temperatures on the dunes can reach 150°F on hot afternoons — wear shoes and visit mornings
- Sandboard and sled rentals available in Alamosa (no park rentals)
- Medano Creek's wave surges are best in May and early June
- The walk from the parking area to the dune base is 0.5 miles across flat sand — deceptively tiring
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May–June (for creek), September–October
Season: Year-round (main campground seasonal)
Access difficulty: Easy access
What to Pack for Colorado Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route