Pinon Flats Campground

About

Piñon Flats Campground is the sole developed camping option within Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, located one mile north of the Visitor Center at 8,175 feet elevation. The campground sits among piñon pines and sagebrush beneath the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with many sites offering views of the snow-covered peaks. The dunefield and seasonal Medano Creek are a short drive away. The campground operates from April through October and requires advance reservations through Recreation.gov up to 3 months ahead. Individual sites cost $20 per night and accommodate up to 8 people, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles. Three group sites (A, B, and C) handle larger parties of 15-40 people at $65-$80 per night. Amenities include restrooms with flush toilets, sinks, and dishwashing basins; potable water; a seasonal camp store selling firewood, ice, and snacks; and a dump station during warmer months. No hookups are available. Due to the campground's historic Mission 66-era design, sites are generally small and unlevel. Most accommodate RVs or trailers up to 25 feet, with only a handful of sites (8, 39, 47, 60, 76, 77, 80, 86) fitting vehicles up to 35 feet combined length. Larger RVs should use the private Oasis Campground outside the park entrance. Firewood collection is prohibited; purchase locally to prevent pest transport. Bears frequent the area, and bear-proof food storage lockers are provided at each site.

Directions

From Highway 160, turn north on Highway 150 and follow for 16 miles to the park entrance. Continue 5 miles north on the park's main road to reach the campground entrance. From Highway 285, turn south onto CO-17 for 36 miles, then east onto Lane 6 for 16 miles to Highway 150. Turn north on Highway 150 for 2.6 miles to the park entrance, then continue 5 miles to the campground.