Sand...Splash...Sleep...Repeat
This incredible Colorado National Park is one big playground for all!
Sand
Who doesn’t love a good sled ride? Â Typically, this is associated with snow and cold. Â Not at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Â You’ll be sliding down that giant sand dune and screaming the whole way. Â The sand dunes range in size and distance so pick a tall one, a short one, a close one, or one far off in the distance. Â There is one for every skill level. Â You can bring your own board or rent one from the Great Sand Dunes Oasis. Â They have both boards and sleds. Â Rent one for $20 a day. Â Don’t forget to take some water with you when you go out. Â The sun is fierce out there and the dunes are not close to any kind of facility.
Splash
Between the parking lot and the dunes, you’ll find Medano Creek.  The creek is typically passable, normally only about 1-2″ deep.  However, it can get up to 20″ deep.  Get current creek information HERE.  Think of this area like a day at the beach.  Bring your umbrella, chairs, towels, sunscreen, snacks & water.  It’s a great way to cool off after sliding down the dunes.  We  set up our little area with towels and essential items in between the dunes and the creek that way we could play at both whenever we wanted.  Don’t be fooled though, the dunes are still quite a long distance from the creek.  You’ll have some walking to do…and it’s in sand.  Not the easiest stroll.  But worth it.
Sleep
Spend the night at Pinon Flats Campground. This campground accommodates tents and RVs. They don’t recommend RVs over 30 feet. If you are in a longer rig, I’d recommend sites in Loop 1 that are closest to the dunes. These are more level and longer. See the site map and read up on the campground HERE before you decide to come. It’s a tight squeeze for anything large. You can make reservations online with recreation.gov. Click on the sites to see their length and other information. This will be a big help when trying to find the right site for you. Keep in mind that they do not have any hookups here so it’s dry camping. They have a dump station so you can fill up your water tank before you go in and dump on your way out. Convenient.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve or the National Park System.
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