Pinon Flats Campground
4.31162 reviews11500 Highway 150, Mosca, CO 81146, USA
Pinon Flats Campground
$20.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $20 per night for tent and RV sites to $80 per night for group sites during peak season (April to October). The park entrance fee is $25 for 1-7 days, and interagency passes are accepted.
About this campground
Nestled at the edge of North America's tallest sand dunes, Pinon Flats Campground invites adventurers to wake up to one of nature's most stunning paradoxes—towering golden dunes set against snow-capped peaks. This 88-site sanctuary within Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve offers mostly non-electric camping across thoughtfully designed loops, where the whisper of shifting sands meets the rustle of pinon pines. Here, campers find themselves perfectly positioned to explore 750-foot dunes by day and stargaze under some of Colorado's darkest skies by night.
Pinon Flats Campground offers tent camping, RV camping, and group sites, with various configurations available.
Historical SignificanceThese shifting sands have served as waypoints for countless journeys across millennia. Ancient peoples navigated by these towering dunes, leaving behind artifacts that whisper stories of seasonal hunting camps and spiritual ceremonies. Later, Spanish explorers, gold-seeking forty-niners, and hardworking field laborers all gazed upon these same golden hills with wonder. The campground itself emerged during the ambitious Mission 66 era, when America's national parks were reimagined for modern travelers, creating the beloved refuge that continues to welcome wanderers today.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different portrait at Pinon Flats. Spring arrives with mild days perfect for dune climbing, while autumn wraps the campground in golden light and crisp mountain air—both seasons offering blessed relief from summer's enthusiastic mosquito population. Summer transforms the dunes into a natural furnace, best explored in early morning or evening hours when the sand won't burn bare feet. Winter brings a magical transformation as snow dusts the dunes, creating an otherworldly landscape where cold nights demand warm sleeping bags and hot cocoa.
ElevationPerched at 8,175 feet where the earth meets sky, Pinon Flats offers camping in Colorado's thin mountain air. This lofty elevation means visitors often find themselves catching their breath—literally—during their first day or two. The altitude brings cooler temperatures, more intense sunshine, and the kind of crystalline air that makes distant peaks seem close enough to touch. Wise campers arrive hydrated and take it easy their first day, allowing their bodies to adjust to this high-country paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryMorning light reveals a landscape that defies expectation: ancient pinon pines and aromatic sagebrush frame views of massive dunes that rise like frozen waves against the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Mule deer browse through campsites at dawn, while prairie sunflowers and purple asters paint the understory in seasonal splashes of color. This remarkable ecosystem showcases nature's artistry, where wind-sculpted dunes meet mountain meadows, creating endless opportunities for photographers and nature lovers to capture the interplay of desert and alpine worlds.
Geological RegionThe San Luis Valley cradles an ecosystem as diverse as it is dramatic. Here, at the foot of the towering Sangre de Cristo range, nature has assembled an improbable collection of landscapes: North America's tallest dunes rise from the valley floor, while hidden alpine lakes sparkle in high cirques above. Ancient forests of spruce and fir give way to shimmering aspen groves, vast grasslands stretch toward distant horizons, and hidden wetlands nurture rare plants and wildlife. This geological wonderland preserves everything from windswept tundra to desert dunes, creating a living laboratory of ecological diversity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers bear-proof food storage bins and allows pets on leash, but reviews indicate challenges with site levelness which may affect accessibility.
Sites SizeSites vary in size with some described as spacious enough for multiple tents while others are tight for RVs or trailers, especially larger ones.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some sites are well-separated while others are described as clustered closely.
Total Campsites88 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with direct views of the dunes include #38, #84, and #64. Some sites, like #13, offer shade during summer months.
Best CampsitesSites #13, #38, and group sites are frequently praised for views and functionality. Site #84 has steps leading up to it and provides both privacy and a good view.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights per reservation all year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site, must include at least one adult (18+).
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger groups, with one review mentioning a successful stay for 36 people comfortably.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, with separated tent and RV sites. Some loops are one-way, which can make maneuvering trailers challenging.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1 to October 30. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, following a rolling booking window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, through the app, or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not provided at Pinon Flats Campground; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for changes or cancellations. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours for individual sites) forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the cancellation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational activities are available both within and near Pinon Flats Campground, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and educational programs.
Hiking
Many miles of hiking trails are accessible, such as the Dunes Overlook Trail and Mosca Pass Trail, offering diverse terrains and views of the dunes and mountains.Wildlife viewing
Frequent sightings of mule deer in and around the campground are noted. The surrounding natural features provide abundant opportunities for wildlife observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led activities and Junior Ranger programs are available, focusing on natural and historical education.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports are not supported directly at Pinon Flats Campground, although nearby areas like San Luis State Wildlife Area offer such activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be extinguished with water and not left unattended. Firewood gathering is prohibited, but wood is sold at the camp store.
- Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito swarms are often reported during summer, and high winds can lead to blowing sand. Visitors should also be aware of wildlife such as mule deer and potential encounters with bears.
Active alertsConstruction work on restrooms and other facilities may impact visitors during certain times.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Alamosa, CO, approximately 35 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal bins are provided, but reviews mentioned bins being far from campsites in some cases. Paper towels are required to be carried back for disposal due to bear precautions.
Proximity to water featuresMedano Creek flows near the dunes during spring and early summer, providing a cooling respite and recreational opportunities.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include swarms of mosquitoes in summer, unlevel campsites, difficulties parking trailers due to narrow sites, and restroom closures during renovations.
HostCampground hosts are available, but limited details about their services are provided. The hosts are mentioned positively in user reviews for their helpfulness.
Campground Map
11500 Highway 150, Mosca, CO 81146, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 160, turn north on Highway 150 and follow for 16 miles to the entrance of Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. Continue 5 miles north on the park's main road to reach the campground entrance. From Highway 285, turn south onto CO-17 and follow for 36 miles (58 km). Turn east onto Lane 6 and follow for 16 miles (26 km) to Highway 150. Turn north onto Highway 150 and follow for 2.6 miles (4 km) to the entrance of Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. Continue 5 miles (8 km) north on the park's main road to reach the campground entrance.
The campground is accessible via well-maintained paved roads. However, due to its remote location, travelers must be prepared for long stretches of driving without services. Seasonal closures or weather-related challenges are not clearly indicated.Nearby places
Alamosa (approximately 35 miles, about 40 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and camping equipment, are available in Alamosa, CO, about 35 miles from the campground. Additionally, there is a camp store near the campground that sells firewood and other essential items during peak season.
Camper Reviews
4.3
162 reviews
Pinon Flats Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Pinon Flats Campground receives varied reviews highlighting its natural beauty and proximity to Great Sand Dunes National Park, contrasted by challenges such as mosquito infestations and site levelness.
Review Summaries
Based on 162 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, proximity to dunes, ample wildlife sightings, and accessibility to trails.
Based on 162 reviewsCommon Concerns
Mosquito infestations during summer, unlevel campsites, porta-potty cleanliness during renovations, and cramped site layouts.
Based on 162 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and head nets for summer stays, consider smaller RVs due to parking challenges, and check equipment sizes against site measurements.
Based on 162 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention mosquito infestations and crowded conditions. Spring and fall are preferred for fewer bugs and enhanced weather conditions.
Based on 162 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The views from campsites are amazing." "The porta-potties were the cleanest I've ever seen." "Mosquitoes made us stay inside our campervan the whole night."
Based on 162 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 013 is praised for its shade and proximity to amenities, while site 073 is noted as challenging for larger RVs.
Based on 162 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility challenges include unlevel sites and porta-potty reliance during restroom renovations.
Based on 162 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leashes. One reviewer appreciated participation in the Bark Ranger program.
Based on 162 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025