Beach Camping Near La Jara, Colorado, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2026

Looking for a spot to pitch your tent near the water in La Jara? You've got over 100 beach campsites to pick from, with sand underfoot and mountain views that stretch for miles. Average stays run about $42 a night, but you can nab a site for as little as $35. Most places welcome pets, have toilets, and let you build a campfire—always a plus after a day of hiking, swimming, or watching mule deer drift through the dunes. Locals swear by Campe Diem! (198 reviews) for its laid-back vibe, while Wilderness Bud and Breakfast (97 reviews) and Camp Dune (37 reviews) draw regulars with their easy access to trails and quiet corners for stargazing. Pack your kit, bring your dog, and expect to fall asleep to the sound of wind in the grass.

95% (304)

Top-rated campgrounds

Sunset looking back at the short trail from the parking area to the campground.

Looking for a spot to pitch your tent near the water in La Jara? You've got over 100 beach campsites to pick from, with sand underfoot and mountain views that stretch for miles. Average stays run about $42 a night, but you can nab a site for as little as $35. Most places welcome pets, have toilets, and let you build a campfire—always a plus after a day of hiking, swimming, or watching mule deer drift through the dunes. Locals swear by Campe Diem! (198 reviews) for its laid-back vibe, while Wilderness Bud and Breakfast (97 reviews) and Camp Dune (37 reviews) draw regulars with their easy access to trails and quiet corners for stargazing. Pack your kit, bring your dog, and expect to fall asleep to the sound of wind in the grass.

95% (304)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

96%

(134)

44mi from La Jara · 5 sites · Tents · Pagosa Springs, CO

Located on a historic ranch in the spectacular Blanco Basin valley, nestled up against the Continental Divide and South San Juan Wilderness Area. This B&B offers a campground with tent sites along the pristine headwaters of the Rio Blanco. A group fire pit, community kitchen and food prep area, composting toilet facility and on-demand gas heated shower facilities. Feel free to explore the river and surrounding San Juan National Forest, with plenty of hiking trails to accommodate all fitness levels. A 420 Happy Hour is available for all campers age 21 and up, and breakfast is served for all!!!

2. Campe Diem!

92%

(296)

33mi from La Jara · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

3. Silver Thread Basecamp

44mi from La Jara · 62 sites · South Fork, CO

Nestled between the stunning landscapes of South Fork and Gunnison, Silver Thread Basecamp offers a unique blend of history and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This scenic campground invites you to explore the rich heritage of old mining towns and forgotten logging camps while surrounded by breathtaking views of pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and the expansive Blue Mesa. At Silver Thread Basecamp, you can choose from a variety of accommodations, whether you prefer RV camping, pitching a tent under the stars, or reserving a cozy cabin. The Rio Grande River flows nearby, providing a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. With ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and swimming, this location is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. Experience the charm of the area with nearby restaurants and shops that showcase local culture. Adventure awaits you at Silver Thread Basecamp, where the beauty of nature and the thrill of exploration come together in perfect harmony.

4. San Luis State Wildlife Area

47 sites · Hooper, Colorado

Just 15 minutes west of Great Sand Dunes National Park is San Luis State Wildlife Area. Visitors come here to get away from the grind and enjoy a peaceful serenity which includes panoramic views of San Luis Lake, Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range and the Great Sand Dunes. The unique desert ecosystem features a wildlife area that’s home sweet home to waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds and raptors (don’t worry, we’re talking birds of prey, not the Jurassic Park kind). Overnight guests will enjoy the really modern campgrounds and water activities.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Great Sand Dunes National Park

99%

(82)

47 sites · Crestone, Colorado

Come play in North America’s tallest sand box.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near La Jara

Mosca

31mi from La Jara · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Luis State Wildlife Area

If you want unimpeded views of the dunes, look for sites on the west side of the loop. The only downside is most of these sites don't have trees for shade, so bring a canopy if you don't want to bake!

99%

(82)

Pinon Flats Campground

40mi from La Jara · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Great Sand Dunes National Park

Stories from the community

J

Jess

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

Had such a peaceful time camping here. The host was super groovy, accommodating and friendly. I felt super safe. The amenities were super convenient. Wish I had more time! Stellar wildlife and great vibes overall. Would give a zillion stars if I could ☺️

A

Albert

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

I loved camping here. So many amenities and felt like a home away from home. This was a great place as we were new campers and the host was a great friendly person. I can’t wait to come back next year. Really enjoyed how close it is to pagosa

C

Cate

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

We had a wonderful time staying here! The land is gorgeous and it was easy to find a great campsite. Perfect for rustic dispersed camping and close to lots of wonderful nature in this corner of Colorado. Would love to stay again!

C

Courtney

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Campe Diem!

It was BEAUTIFUL!! The thing that stood out the most was the blanket of stars we got to enjoy for the night. It was incredible peaceful and clean. We loved it here!! Highly recommend

A

Angie

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

Perfect desert style camping! Bring your own shade! ☀️ Thank you for providing water with large tank for the unbeatable camping bathroom experience! A flush toilet and a HOT shower under the incredible starry skies are unmatched! The lake is a 3 min drive or a small hike away. You cannot swim in this lake but there's plenty of beach and you can still fish and be on-water! The small town aboit 12 mins away is perfect for any last minute or forgotten quick grabs. A perfect get away without getting too far away!

C

Chase

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Campe Diem!

Great spots with lots of privacy and you truly feel alone out their!

R

Rob

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

We had a great time. This is a great location with a beatiful view. This is the second time we've stayed at Campe Diem. I would use this spot again if I come this way in the future.

B

Benjamin

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

My wife and I spent 2 nights and absolutely loved it. William was a great host and made us feel welcome, and the camping area had everything we needed to cook and clean. It’s a gorgeous spot, quiet, and lots of deer and wildlife about. The breakfast and coffee provided each morning were an extra great touch, as well as the green treats. Highly recommend!

R

Regine

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

What a beautiful site with a 5 min drive to a beautiful lake! We loved our stay and just what we expected ! Highly recommend!!

A

Addie

May 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

Awesome location and views. Loved that my dogs could run around. Trees for shade and hammock too. Really nice!

j

joey

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

Great spot lots of room. Heard other campers but didn't really see anyone and still felt pretty secluded. Excellent hiking!

K

Kayleigh

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

What an amazing experience from start to finish! This is exactly what I was looking for. The host was wonderful, and the treats provided were outstanding.

A

A.J.

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

the dispersed camping was great… plenty of privacy. I love the sagebrush landscape and the mountain views. we’ve stayed at Campe Diem twice so far and will likely be back next time we’re in the area.

L

Lauren

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Campe Diem!

Great location. Away from most things but easy to get to some populated places. The host was friendly and helpful without being overbearing. Dedication to LNT and treating the land with respect.