Backpacking Campsites in the Dunes or Forest
11999 State Highway 150, Mosca, CO, 81146
National Park ServiceLast Updated: November 5, 2025
Campsites Starting From
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Campground 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
Reservation Info
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.
Rules
Fire/Stove Policy
Gas stoves only
Regulations Overview
- Maximum of six people per party/ group at all times - Gas stoves only; no campfires or wood burning stoves allowed - Dogs are not permitted in the dunes backcountry. Please visit our Pets web page for detailed information and maps of permitted pet areas. - Bears rarely visit the interior of the dunefield. Bear-proof containers are encouraged, but not required. - - - - Sand stakes are encouraged as most standard tent stakes do not work on the sand dunes. Plastic bags filled with sand can also help anchor your tent. - Plan to camp in the dunes only when weather is calm and clear to avoid blowing sand or dangerous thunderstorms with lightning; check the park weather forecast on our Weather webpage.
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