Great Sand Dunes backcountry camping offers a unique wilderness experience amidst towering sand dunes and diverse ecosystems. This adventure requires careful planning, proper gear, and adherence to park regulations. Campers can choose from designated sites or explore the vast dune field, encountering challenges like sand hiking and weather extremes. With permits available year-round, this experience provides an unforgettable journey into one of America’s most distinctive landscapes.
What Are the Specific Backcountry Sites Available?

Great Sand Dunes National Park offers several designated backcountry sites, each with its unique characteristics:
- Indian Grove
- Location: Grove of cottonwood and pine trees beside dunes and Medano Creek
- Distance: 4.1 miles from Horse Parking Lot
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Features: Reliable water source, outdoor toilet
-
Historical significance: Listed on National Register of Historic Places
-
Little Medano
- Location: Montane woodlands below Mount Herard
- Distance: 5.0 miles from Horse Parking Lot
- Difficulty: Moderate
-
Water sources: Seasonal in Little Medano Creek (0.3 miles), reliable in Medano Creek (0.5 miles)
-
Aspen Grove
- Elevation: 9,240 feet (highest designated site)
- Distance: 7.0 miles from Horse Parking Lot
- Difficulty: Difficult, requires route-finding skills
-
Water sources: Seasonal in Little Medano Creek (1.6 miles), reliable in Medano Creek (2.3 miles)
-
Undesignated Sites in Dune Field
- Location: Beyond day-use area, at least 1.5 miles from visitor center
- Features: Choose-your-own-adventure aspect, no designated spots
How to Obtain Backcountry Camping Permits?

Securing a permit for Great Sand Dunes backcountry camping involves the following process:
- Application Method
-
Use Recreation.gov online permit system
-
Fees
- Non-refundable $6.00 per permit
-
National park entry fee: $25 per day or $80 for Annual Interagency National Park Pass
-
Availability
- Year-round permits
- Best conditions: Late summer and early fall
-
Winter camping possible but challenging due to high elevation (around 7,700 feet)
-
Regulations
- Camp beyond day-use area (at least 1.5 miles from visitor center)
- Adhere to all park rules and Leave No Trace principles
What Essential Gear Should You Pack?
For a successful Great Sand Dunes backcountry camping experience, consider the following gear recommendations:
Category | Items |
---|---|
Shelter | Tent with snow stakes or sandbags for wind protection |
Footwear | Closed-toe shoes for hot sand (up to 150°F in summer) |
Food Storage | Bear boxes or bear-resistant containers |
Water | Minimum 1 gallon per person per night |
Navigation | Map, compass, and GPS device |
Safety | First aid kit, sun protection, and emergency communication device |
What Are the Key Safety Precautions?
- Weather Awareness
- Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms
- Leave dunes if lightning threatens
-
Crouch low on backpack if in immediate danger
-
Food Storage
- Use bear boxes when available
-
Follow strict food storage guidelines to avoid wildlife encounters
-
Water Management
- Bring ample water supplies
-
Treat stream water before drinking
-
Navigation
- Develop route-finding skills
- Be aware of challenging terrain and potential for getting lost
What Are the Notable Backcountry Trails?
- High Dune Trail
- Length: Approximately 3.3 miles one-way to campsite
- Elevation gain: 1,200 feet
- Difficulty: Rated as difficult
-
Total round trip: 5-6 miles
-
Sand Ramp Trail
- Leads to various backcountry sites
- Distances range from 4.1 to 11.6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to very difficult
What Unique Challenges Does Sand Dune Hiking Present?
- Terrain Difficulty
- Loose sand makes each step challenging
- Requires unique hiking technique
-
Physically demanding, especially with heavy packs
-
Navigation Challenges
- No formal trails in dune field
- Route-finding skills essential
-
Key landmarks: First Ridge, High Dune, Star Dune
-
Environmental Factors
- Extreme heat during summer afternoons
- Strong winds can affect camping and hiking
- Potential for rapid weather changes
By understanding these aspects of Great Sand Dunes backcountry camping, adventurers can prepare for a safe and memorable experience in this unique national park.
References:
1. https://noahlangphotography.com/blog/star-dune-trail-great-sand-dunes-national-park
2. https://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/backpacking.htm
3. https://raisinghikers.com/complete-guide-to-backpacking-great-sand-dunes-national-park-with-kids/