Camping near San Luis

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Looking for the best camping near San Luis? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of Colorado hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near San Luis.

94% (2K) 1,961 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near San Luis

Wally's Woods

1. Wally's Woods

100%
(21)
7.2mi from San Luis · 1 site · Tent, RV
Overlooking the San Luis Valley at 8,400 feet above sea level, Wally's Woods is a 3-acre parcel of wild Colorado land that welcomes campers from across the country. Who's Wally? He's my 30-pound terrier mix who has appointed himself protector of this land!Wally's Woods is 20 minutes (10 miles) from the town of San Luis where groceries, gas, and restaurants can be found. It's 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs, 2.5 hours from Pagosa Springs, and 1.25 hours from Taos, making it a great hub for exploring Southern CO and Northern NM. Come enjoy the breathtaking views, and take in the peace and quiet. Stay as long as you'd like, but don't forget to respect this land. Pack it in, pack it out. Don't feed or touch the wildlife. Have fun!Learn more about this land:Looking for complete privacy, magnificent views, and easy access to southern Colorado and northern NM? My High Mesa Campsite is the place for you! Sitting atop the Wild Horse Mesa in the San Luis Valley, this 3-acre campsite is perfect for tent camping and overlanding. At 8,400 feet above sea level, you'll have cool breezes, clear skies, and unparalleled views. We have plans to build a getaway cabin on this property, but for now we use it to camp and get away from the busyness of life. We hope you'll come experience it - we love to share it with fellow campers and travelers! Why we love this campsite:1. It's beautiful! Southern Colorado is where the high desert meets the mountains. There's nothing like watching the sunrise from 8,400 feet.2. Easy access to amazing sights and activities! Great Sand Dunes National Park (45 minutes), Zapata Falls (30 minutes), Mt. Blanca (30 minutes), Taos Ski Valley (1.25 hours), Colorado Springs (2.5 hours), Pagosa Springs (2.5 hours).3. Easy to find while very private! The roads are county maintained and labeled, and you will probably not see another person in the area your entire stay.Pinon, pine, and lots of shrubs cover most of the campsite. Lava rock brings some texture to the high desert dirt, and there is enough tree coverage to stay as hidden and private as you choose. The Mesa has no shortage of wildlife! Besides herds of wild horses, you may encounter coyotes, rabbits, hawks, and other beautiful native animals. Always keep your distance, and never feed wildlife.A few things to note about this campsite:1. NO electricity, NO water, NO restrooms, NO showers! 2. NO trash receptacle - pack-in, pack-out only. 3. There is only one campsite/listing on our property - you get it all to yourself!4. There is a dirt driveway for vehicle parking, but you can not drive up to the campsite. It is accessible only by foot (20 yards from parking).
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Moore Chaparral

2. Moore Chaparral

100%
(15)
15mi from San Luis · 1 site
Ready for overnight stays and weekend getaways. At 8,500 ft elevation near Ft Garland Colorado the Gateway to the San Luis Valley. The Tiny house has 360 degrees of vistas, near many local attractions including Mtn Home Reservoir, Stations of the Cross, Great Sand Dunes, Zapata Falls [ if you have time this is a gem to see], Colorado Gators, Ft Garland Museum, Mtn Blanca, 75 miles to Taos NM, and many wildlife reserves. The Tiny House is APX 150ft from main home but has its own drive and private parking, amenities include WIFI, bathroom and shower, towels and bedding, kitchenette, with fridge, microwave, toaster oven, coffee maker [ coffee provided], and television. Sleeps 2 very cozy. We are Pet friendly [ WITH $20.00 CASH CHARGE PER PET, UPON ARRIVAL, LIMIT 2]. Pets cannot be left on property or in Tiny house unsupervised. We look forward to making your stay as enjoyable as possible. We are a seasonal Tiny house Opening on May 19, 2025, to Oct 15, 2025.
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Camp Catori

3. Camp Catori

100%
(38)
16mi from San Luis · 1 site
CAMP CATORI - OFF-GRID IN SACRED NATURE At Camp Catori, we offer an immersive off-grid retreat where you can reconnect with yourself and the land. Set on six sacred acres with sweeping views of the Mt. Blanca Range, our space blends mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness—with a little adventure and fun. Just 30 minutes from the Great Sand Dunes and Zapata Falls, guests can enjoy hiking, fishing, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding. Whether visiting solo, with friends, or hosting a retreat, Camp Catori invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and come home to yourself. ESSENTIALS TO KNOW THIS IS CAMPING - Although we have fabulous amenities for a comfortable experience, this is camping. If you are not a camper do not book. This is not an AIRBNB. Not toddler friendly. OFF-GRID WATER: No well or septic. If you chose the option of running water, six 5-gallon jugs provided to fill nearby. The tank holds 35 gallons. Monitor usage; do not drop below 1/4 full or it may damage the pump. Showers use 1.75 gal/min. Camp style rinse off showers. (Dry cabin Nov–May; no running water during freeze months) TOILET USE: Composting toilet. All guests must watch a 2-minute video and follow instructions. Violation of cabin rules or failure to discard urine in the designated spot incurs a $150 fee. If you’re not comfortable doing this, this may not be the right fit SLEEPING and KITCHEN BEDS: Queen loft, convertible queen second loft (or 2 twins), pull-out sofa (5'10" max). Bring your own sheets or sleeping bags. Pillows and blankets provided KITCHEN: Fridge/freezer, Wonderoven, coffee makers (Nespresso, French press, Italian), all-in-one steamer pan, Dutch oven, propane stove, grill, corkscrew, cooking/eating utensils, plates/bowls, knifes, indoor table (2), outdoor table (6–7), and mountain-view ledge seating (2) INTERNET Hotspot via Solis ($10/day) or use your mobile phone—works well for basic use and streaming MISC: HUGE newly expanded deck, chimenea, telescope, umbrella, outdoor grill, outdoor buckets for washing, TV's, propane heater, fireplace, electric heater, yoga mats (2), extra blankets, binoculors, games Group Camping and Retreats Three cleared campsites (4x4 required) Great for group camping or hosting retreats Contact Catori: 720-474-0779
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San Isabel National Forest

4. San Isabel National Forest

91%
(78)
National forest 106mi from San Luis · 912 sites
Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rio Grande National Forest

5. Rio Grande National Forest

85%
(27)
National forest 81mi from San Luis · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
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Electrical hookup
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Great Sand Dunes Desert Escape

6. Great Sand Dunes Desert Escape

95%
(39)
16mi from San Luis · 1 site
CALLING ALL ADVENTURERS! Ready to glamp? Escape to an off grid tiny cabin with a zip line and 5 acres to yourself. It is time to enjoy some peace and quiet with limited cell phone service and breathtaking views. You will be the ONLY ONE on 5 acres of land to explore. Find yourself adventuring through the gulch on a zip line, relaxing under the beautiful pinon trees, grilling some tasty food, sitting next to a crackling fire or enjoying one of three tree swings. At night, you may find that the views of the night sky are simply unbeatable, you’re in a dark sky zone…don't forget to look up! The sunrise and sunsets are beautiful too! Walk to the top of one of the many peaks for stunning views. Adventure to the highest peak and be surprised with a tree swing! To make things even better, there are 3 fire pits with campsites to go along with them. Use the cabin which sleeps 2 guests and extra guests can tent camp! The cabin includes a pull out couch (sleeps 2), 2 air mattresses (and a pump), water jug and pump, toilet, off grid shower, cooking pans and utensils, bowls/plates, cups, coffee, propane cook stove and more! Parking for 2-3 cars. HIGH CLEARANCE VEHICLES RECOMMENDED! Otherwise you may not be able to pull into the driveway. Jeep Patriot or similar can make it. This land is located in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. At the eastern edge of the San Luis Valley, Sangre de Cristo Ranches are virtually surrounded by the Rockies. This land is literally in the San Isabel National Forest. You will be just minutes away from so many awesome destinations! Fort Garland for supplies/gas: 10-15mins *Dollar General has everything you need Mountain Home Reservoir: 10mins Great Sand Dunes NP Entrance: 40mins  Sanchez Reservoir: 30mins  Lathrop State Park: 45 mins  Alamosa: 45mins  San Isabel National Forest: You’re in it! The closest towns are Fort Garland, Alamosa, Walsenburg, and San Luis. Fires are welcome in the designated fire rings. If there is a fire ban in place, please follow the law. There are plenty of fallen branches and dead limbs on the property, please feel free to use any remaining cut wood, fallen branches, and dead trees. Please leave any project tools alone and do not make any adjustments to our land/structures. Enjoy nature!
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Mono Loco Flats

7. Mono Loco Flats

100%
(129)
18mi from San Luis · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Mono Loco Flats sits on a Mesa nestled in the Sangre de Cristo mountains near Sangre De Cristo creek and La Veta Pass. I was lucky to be able explore this zone as a kid and I feel fortunate that I can share Mono Loco Flats with others. Set up camp and enjoy sweeping views of Mount Blanca and the surrounding Sangre De Cristo mountain range. This 15 acre camp is situated just off highway 160 for easy access, approximately 25 minutes from The Great Sand Dunes National park and Zapata Falls. Mono Loco Flats is an excellent home base for exploring the San Luis Valley. Sangre de Cristo Creek is a short hike or drive to the south. Fort Garland is a 10-minute drive. All three sites provide 360 panoramic views with epic sunrise and sunset views of Mount Blanca. Wild horses and prong horned antelope may wander the Mesa as you enjoy your camp. The natural beauty of these three campsites is worth protecting so please if you pack it in, pack it out. This is a dry camp with no toilet or garbage facilities. Please treat this land with respect so that future campers may enjoy the land free of rubbish. All three campsites are accessible with any type of vehicle, and the long driveway and turnaround can accommodate any trailer or RV up to 20'. So please come and enjoy the Sangre De Cristo mountains at Mono Loco Flats:) @monkeypuzzlespace = Mono Loco Flats on Instagram
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Picnic table
Mt. Blanca Base Camp — Epic Views!

8. Mt. Blanca Base Camp — Epic Views!

100%
(11)
20mi from San Luis · 1 site · Tent, RV
Discover Mt. Blanca Base Camp, your gateway to adventure in the Colorado San Luis valley wilderness. Situated near the base of the stunning Mount Blanca Massif and just moments from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Zapata Falls, our campground offers the perfect blend of tranquility and excitement. Explore rugged hiking trails, take scenic drives through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and unwind under the starlit sky around a crackling campfire. Whether you seek serene relaxation or thrilling outdoor escapades, Blanca Base Camp invites you to experience the beauty of nature. Book your stay today and make memories that last a lifetime. (A smart note from a past guest: "Our pup loved getting to explore outside but make sure they have boots if going much further than the pad as there are cacti.") Things to Do in Costilla County, Colorado: Explore Great Sand Dunes National Park: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the tallest sand dunes in North America. Enjoy hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing amidst this unique natural wonder. Hike Zapata Falls: Embark on a scenic hike to Zapata Falls, a hidden gem tucked away in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Marvel at the stunning waterfall cascading over sheer rock cliffs. Visit San Luis State Park: Spend a day fishing, boating, or wildlife watching at San Luis State Park. With serene reservoirs and picturesque wetlands, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Drive the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway: Take a leisurely drive along this historic route, which winds through charming towns, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore Culebra Peak: For avid hikers and mountaineers, Culebra Peak offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Climb to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Attend the Fort Garland Museum: Step back in time at the Fort Garland Museum, where you can explore the history of the region through exhibits, artifacts, and restored historic buildings. Enjoy Hot Springs: Relax and unwind in one of the area's natural hot springs, where you can soak in rejuvenating mineral waters surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Go Fishing: Cast your line into one of the many lakes, rivers, and streams that dot Costilla County. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, there's plenty of opportunities to reel in a catch. Take Scenic Drives: Explore the scenic beauty of Costilla County by car, with winding mountain roads offering breathtaking views at every turn. Photograph Wildlife and Landscapes: Bring your camera and capture the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes that make Costilla County a photographer's paradise.
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Campfires
Eltor Ranch

9. Eltor Ranch

100%
(11)
22mi from San Luis · 1 site
Fall in love with this ruggedly beautiful property on Blanca Peak only thirty minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park. Breathtaking views, colorful sunsets, and star filled nights await you at Eltor Ranch. Follow a stone lined trail 300 feet from the road to a charmingly secluded campsite that features a fire pit and two tent spots with morning shade. This is a leave no trace environment— pack it in pack it out. High clearance vehicles are strongly recommended.
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Picnic table
Carson National Forest

10. Carson National Forest

91%
(40)
National forest 58mi from San Luis · 463 sites
Come get lost in the wild, enchanted lands of New Mexico! One of five unearthly National Forests in this great state, Carson National Forest is open for business all year round, and never fails to bring the heat with magnificent mountain scenery and some seriously stunning natural features. If solitude is your muse than look no further! Cold mountain streams, ample trout fishing, and out of sight camping is sure to give you your fix. With over 1.5 million acres laden with high ridges, dense vegetation and some of the cleanest air you’re likely to find west of the Mississippi, Carson is simply the epitome of Southwestern frontier!
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San Luis State Wildlife Area

11. San Luis State Wildlife Area

State park 37mi from San Luis · 47 sites
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.
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Electrical hookup
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Great Sand Dunes National Park

12. Great Sand Dunes National Park

99%
(84)
National park 42mi from San Luis · 47 sites
Come play in North America’s tallest sand box.
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Lathrop State Park

13. Lathrop State Park

100%
(1)
State park 43mi from San Luis · 96 sites
Get on the water or tee off at the golf course in Colorado’s first state park.
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Electrical hookup
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SunnySide Up

14. SunnySide Up

95%
(11)
22mi from San Luis · 1 site
5 acres of flat open desert space, with Blanca Peak as the foreground. Walk from the property to trail of 4th highest peak in Colorado. 15 minutes from Great Sand Dunes NP (you can rent sand boards!) 15 minutes to Zapata falls, summer beautiful waterfall, winter it freezes over for a magical cascade of ice. Have the clearest views of the night sky at 7000ft above sea level with no light pollution. There is no electricity or bathroom. Car camp or tent camp in a fully off grid experience. Only 20 minutes from the vibrant town of Alamosa
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SHIANNA STATION Great Sand Dunes NP

15. SHIANNA STATION Great Sand Dunes NP

100%
(15)
22mi from San Luis · 1 site
Sand Dunes, Summits and Stargazing. Camp at the base of 14000 ft Blanca Peak in the beautiful San Luis Valley, Colorado only 15 minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park. Gaze at the Milky Way at night and watch the stars fall. You'll have your own 5 acres with a pergola, picnic bench and fire pit with views that will take your breath away. This is a primitive camping at it's best. There are no amenities, power or restrooms. You must pack it in and pack it out. High clearance vehicle recommended.
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Secluded San Luis Valley Campsite

16. Secluded San Luis Valley Campsite

100%
(13)
22mi from San Luis · 1 site · Tent, RV
5 off-grid acres down the road from Great Sand Dunes National Park! The property will be marked with painted sticks, spaced about 30ft apart from one another. You will need to access the property by turning onto Highway 150, then left onto 3rd St. Next, take the first right onto Ash St, then the first right onto 4th St. Go down the road and locate our property on the left side of the road. The approximate coordinates for the front of our lot are 37.4932, -105.6076. We recommend using Google Maps to get there. Apple Maps does not do as well with coordinates. Feel free to take your vehicle off the driveway, just be mindful of our land! There will also be a fire pit for your convenience, but do not leave any trash or food after you leave. Please make sure to put out all fires completely. Even though this is primarily a Tent site, RVs and Campers are welcome. However, there is no electricity or any water hookups on the property, but the views and privacy make up for it! You are about 15 minutes south of the Great Sand Dunes and 20 minutes from downtown Alamosa.
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Campfires
Coyote Canyon Mountain Base Camp

17. Coyote Canyon Mountain Base Camp

98%
(113)
23mi from San Luis · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
As the Scenic Passenger Train is heard in the distance you'll look up towards Mount Blanca and imagine your next adventure living among the wildflowers of this High Desert Mountain Hipcamp. After recovering from a wildfire, the ancient sage brushes that had previously made the land harsh and unwelcoming are nearly gone, replaced with an abundance of grasses and wildflowers if blessed with rains. Open Land as far as you can go to the East you'll follow the Coyote canyon to high mountain lookouts. There are old logging maintenance roads you could take advantage of, so Hike, Bike or Motor around the local area. Fort Garland and Blanca have a community center (pool), septic dump and water fill and can provide groceries. The Great Sand dunes are about 45 minutes away. The Sand Dunes swimming pool, fed by a very hot artisan well is about an hour away. Mountain Home Lake is also within 1/2 an hour or so for fishing/water sports with a nice boat ramp. Escape from light pollution like never before, a clear night sky will make the whole trip worthwhile! Lots of wild life and you will most likely see some deer, hear the coyotes, and count the different colors of the humming birds. You can book a train ride out of Alamosa, and visit the local historic towns. The views will make it hard to leave the campsite, but there are tons of experiences and things to do in the area so make sure to do some research before you arrive.  The weather and wind can be unpredictable in the mountains, so be prepared.  There are two entrances onto the property, one at the bottom and one at the top. You can avoid some wind by camping near Lewis-Smith Rd at the lowest part of the land.  Also, the site can accommodate large trailers/RV's but just make sure to plan your entrance/exit carefully and don't go to far down the hills.  Just choose a wise spot to park if in a big rig.  There are some small tires around that you can use to sit on or if you dig a hole that you fill in before leaving you can make a temporary toilet.  Make sure to haul out all your trash and leave the site cleaner than it was when you arrived and respect the land.  If you do come across a mess from the previous camper and clean it up, just let us know and we will give you a refund for the night. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
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Lone Spruce Camp

18. Lone Spruce Camp

100%
(11)
24mi from San Luis · 1 site
Located between La Veta and Cuchara on the Scenic Highway of Legends enjoy over one acre to call your own. Resting next to the Cucharas River, the flat meadow is perfect for parking your RV while you enjoy views of the surrounding mountain range. You are under a five minute drive to Cuchara Main Street and just over a ten minute drive to the quaint town of La Veta. Fishing is available at many of the nearby lakes including Bear Lake, Blue Lake, North Lake, Monument Lake, Daigre Lake, and Wahatoya Lake. Many hiking and biking trails are also in the area. Or you can visit Lathrop State Park in Walsenburg just over 30 minutes away where you can paddle board, hike, or fish. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is just one hour from this location! It is a perfect central parking spot for all of your Southern Colorado outdoor adventures while coming home to peace and serenity. The eastern boundary of this property is the Cucharas River and we own to the center point of the river. We ask that you stay within the boundaries shown on the map. Reservations up to five days max, we may allow an extended stay upon request. We do not offer any restrooms so we require you must have an RV with your own facilities. No fires permitted on property. We offer a trash bin near the entrance (shown on map). We hope you come and enjoy this beautiful location and all that Southern Colorado has to offer! Update: we recently cleared a larger parking spot and added mulch!
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Base Camp Family Campground

19. Base Camp Family Campground

93%
(51)
25mi from San Luis · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome To Your Base Camp Whether your adventure brings you here for just one night, or the entire summer, this is the view you want to wake up to! We have... •Largest Pull Through Sites In The Area-100' x 40' •Big-Rig-Friendly, 60 degree angled sites •Large Private Showers •Best 360 Degree Views •Full Hookups •Free Wi-Fi •Laundry •Close To All Local Attractions •Sandboard and Sand Sled Rentals Base Camp Family Campground is owned and operated by the Baker Family. Josh Baker first lived in Southern Colorado in the early 90's as a child, but his family moved away after a short time. His desire to move back here as an adult prompted him to start bringing his own family to Colorado for vacations. They purchased land in the valley in 2014 and moved to Colorado in 2020. They are using all they've learned from years of RV adventures, to continue the park's mission of providing a clean, affordable, spacious, well-run camping facility, and to be a centrally located "base camp" and hub of information for everything this unique area has to offer. You'll be camping in the shadows of 14,000 ft. mountain peaks, in the largest high-desert alpine valley in the world, that is sprinkled with free-flowing artesian wells, hot springs and wet lands. Daily summer temperatures average 65 degrees, and it will get down into the 50's at night. That's perfect camping weather! For native American tribes, including the Utes, Apache, Navajos, and others, this valley is considered the source of life, a place where humans and spirit enter and leave this world. The valley was considered so sacred, that no war would be waged here. The ET Connection As if all of the mountains, deserts, hot springs, and sacred ground weren't enough, The San Luis Valley is also known as a UFO hot spot! UFO sightings have been reported as far back as the 1600's. • EXPRESS CHECK IN - We'll send you an email the day before your arrival, with your site number, wifi password, etc. There is no need to check in at the host site when you arrive, unless you have questions. You can follow the yellow signs straight to your camp site! • Check In Time -1:00 PM •Check Out Time -11:00 AM
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Full hookups
Earth Mountain Education Farm

20. Earth Mountain Education Farm

99%
(49)
26mi from San Luis · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
In 2002, Earth Mountain was vacant land that offered itself to us in a way of a calling. It is an unforgettable experience whether camping here or participating in a program. Earth Mtn. is a 40 acre basecamp with 480 surrounding acres of forest. It is a high vibration place with lots to offer. The stars are completely amazing, we are so far off the beaten path that there is no light pollution! We welcome you to share in this wonderful sacred space.Learn more about this land:Earth Mtn. is a working permaculture, off-grid farm at 8000' in the backcountry of the beautiful Sangre De Cristo Mtns. We are located 1 hr. from Trinidad, CO.  We have a private wooded campground area close to a small pond. Camping here will give you a wonderful sacred space to rest, learn and enjoy.  Organic food is available to pick and pay during farming season. A great place for the whole family!
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field