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Did you know that Colorado is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America? If you’re planning a visit to Great Sand Dunes National Park, camping is one of the best ways to experience it.

I’ve camped at two of the most popular campgrounds near the dunes, one in winter and one in summer. But my top pick for the best campground in Great Sand Dunes National Park is Piñon Flats Campground—and here’s why!

Piñon Flats Campground

Piñon Flats Campground is located within Great Sand Dunes National Park, making it the most convenient place to stay.

Looking for specific? Use the table of contents.

Why Camp at Piñon Flats Campground?

Unlike other campgrounds that require a long drive, you can walk straight to the dunes from your campsite.

📍 Location: Inside Great Sand Dunes National Park
🚶‍♂️ Walking Distance to the Dunes
🌌 Unbeatable Stargazing (Dark Sky Park)
🔥 Fire Pits & Picnic Areas for Camp Cooking
🌲 Shaded & Open Sites Available

My Experience Camping at Piñon Flats Campground

We car-camped on a warm day in July, and the weather was hot.

I car camped here on a warm July night, and it was hot during the day. After a morning of sandboarding, we returned to our campsite to cook lunch over the fire pit.

After the sun started to set, I walked straight from the campground to the dunes—and it was breathtaking.

You can read my guide: Sand Sledding At Great Sand Dunes: Everything To Know!

The sky lit up in pink, purple, and fiery orange, creating one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever seen.

At night, the dunes transformed into an epic stargazing spot. Since Great Sand Dunes National Park is an International Dark Sky Park, the views of the Milky Way were crystal clear.

Pro Tip: Bring a red-light flashlight to walk to the dunes at night without disrupting your night vision.

Want to know more about National Park stargazing spots?

Check out my guide to The Best Spots For Stargazing at Arches National Park

Piñon Flats Campground Map

Since cell service is minimal in the park, I recommend saving this campground map to your phone before arriving.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a campsite with shade, choose one with taller trees—some sites are more exposed.

How Much Does It Cost to Camp at Piñon Flats?

Cost: $20 per night
Campsite Capacity: Up to 8 people, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles (including trailers).
Open: April – October

Pro Tip: Reservations fill up months in advance, so book early! If you don’t get a spot, check daily for last-minute cancellations.

Book your campsite here: Official Reservation Website.

Essential Camping Tips for Piñon Flats

• Beware of Beetles! – They tend to hang around firepits during the day but disappear at night.
• Hammocks Are Not Allowed – To prevent tree damage, hammocks are prohibited.
• Quiet Hours: 10 PM – 6 AM
• Generator Hours: 8 AM – 10 AM, 12 PM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 7 PM

Where is Piñon Flats Campground?

The Pinot Flat Campground is located within Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Driving Distances

• Denver, CO: ~4 hours (232 miles)
• Colorado Springs, CO: ~3 hours (169 miles)
• Albuquerque, NM: ~5 hours (271 miles)

Explore More National Parks

You have to try sand sledding when visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park! Here is my guide: Sand Sledding At Great Sand Dunes: Everything To Know!

Want more camping spots in Colorado’s National Parks? Here is your guide to Camping At The Glacier Basin Campground In RMNP.

You can also make your way over to The Best Colorado Glamping Cabins At Durango Riverside Resort.

Want more of Colorado’s hiking trails? Here are The 5 Best Wildflower Hikes In Colorful Colorado!

Read all of my National Park Travel Guides!