Campground

Medano Pass Primitive Road Campsites

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Details

Lat:37.803519

Lng:-105.495654

Content provided by

National Park Service

Last Updated: September 12, 2026

Campground Overview

Introduction

Roadside camping is permitted at 21 campsites in Great Sand Dunes National Preserve beginning 5.2 miles from where the road begins near Piñon Flats Campground. These designated sites are free of charge and first-come, first-served. All 21 sites fill on summer weekends. Passable only in the warmer months and only with high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles. This road crosses areas of deep sand, traverses Medano Creek nine times, and passes through excellent habitat for bighorn sheep.

Campsite Details

Reservable0

First Come First Serve21

Total Sites21

Group0

Horse0

Tent Only21

Electrical Hookups0

RV Only0

Walk/Boat To0

Other0

Weather

Spring can sometimes bring high winds, mainly in the afternoon. Temperatures may vary widely: highs may reach into the 70s F, or only into the 30s F with snow and an even colder wind chill. In summer, daytime high temperatures average 75-80 degrees F. However, sand surface temperatures can soar to 150 degrees F on sunny summer afternoons. Fall is generally mild, with Indian summer days. Highs average in the 60s - 70s F, with chilly nights in the 20s - 30s F. Frigid temperatures are the norm in winter.

Amenities

Potable Water

Food Storage Lockers

Directions

The south entrance to Medano Pass Road begins just below Pinon Flats Campground, one mile north of the visitor center. The road's north access is in the Wet Mountain Valley, on Highway 69 south of Westcliffe.

Rates & Fees

$0.00

Free Camping in Sites along Medano Pass Road

Campsites are free and first-come, first-served on the Medano Pass Road.

Rules & Regulations

Fire/Stove Policy

Fires are permitted only within metal fire rings. You may collect dead and down wood 4 inches or less in diameter; do not break branches off trees.

Regulations Overview

- Camping is permitted in designated, marked sites only in the national preserve. No permits are necessary. - Tents must be located within 40 feet of the front of the bear box at each site. - Pets must be leashed or restrained at all times. - Fires only in existing fire rings; put out completely with water. Gather dead and down firewood 4” or less diameter. - No off-road driving. Vehicles must be highway-legal in Colorado. Park only in designated campsites or parking areas. - Secure food, coolers, toiletries, and trash from black bears. Lock them in the bear boxes provided at most sites. - All trash, including orange peels, egg shells and toilet paper, must be removed. Bury human waste 6” deep.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access
None
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
Only a full-size, 4WD SUV, Jeep or truck can reach these campsites.
RV Maximum Length
0
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
While a full-size 4WD SUV, Jeep or truck can reach these campsites, they are not ADA accessible. There are no restrooms, paved surfaces, or buildings in Medano Canyon.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
Unpaved Roads - 4WD/High clearance required
Classifications
Designated Primitive Campsites

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