Nearby Campgrounds
Overview
The most popular and unique backpacking option is camping in the 30-square-mile dunefield, beyond the major dune ridgeline (about 1.5 mile hike minimum over dunes). Enjoy wide open views of the starry sky or a bright moonlit night. Designated sites are also available in the trees of the foothills, or camping is available in higher forests of Great Sand Dunes National Preserve. Reserve national park backpacking permits for the dunes or foothills through recreation.gov
Location
Directions
To access the main park area, including the Dunes Parking Lot and backpacking trailheads, take CO Highway 150 from the south or County Road 6 from the west. Both are paved highways.
Weather Notes
Spring can sometimes bring high winds, mainly in the afternoon. Temperatures may vary widely: highs may reach into the 70s F, or only into the 30s F with snow and an even colder wind chill. In summer, daytime high temperatures average 75-80 degrees F. However, sand surface temperatures can soar to 150 degrees F on sunny summer afternoons. Fall is generally mild, with Indian summer days. Highs average in the 60s - 70s F, with chilly nights in the 20s - 30s F. Frigid temperatures are the norm in winter.
Backpacking Permit Fee
Fee to make a required reservation for a backpacking permit through recreation.gov
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Based on FCC availability data. Actual signal may vary in remote terrain.
Trip Reports
0 reports
Wed
65°F
10 to 35 mph WSW
Thu
56°F
15 to 25 mph W
Fri
57°F
5 to 25 mph WSW
Sat
58°F
5 to 25 mph SW
Sun
54°F
25 to 30 mph SW
Mon
56°F
10 to 20 mph WSW
Tue
61°F
5 to 20 mph WSW
Reserve national park backpacking permits through recreation.gov in advance up to the first day of your trip. Camping in the national preserve requires a free permit from the visitor center only if you are starting your trip in the national park.