Photo: NPS/Patrick Myers
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
Colorado
The tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece in a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. Stay on a moonless night to experience countless stars in this International Dark Sky Park! Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week year-round. There are no timed entries or reservations to visit.
Entrance fee
$25 per vehicle (7 days)
Campgrounds
3
Dogs allowed?
Varies, see below
Are dogs allowed at Great Sand Dunes?
Pet rules at Great Sand Dunes vary by area. Read the official pet policy on nps.gov before your visit. In most national parks, pets are limited to developed areas and must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Can you camp at Great Sand Dunes?
Yes. Great Sand Dunes has 3 campgrounds, 2 of which accept reservations (via recreation.gov). See the table below for details.
| Campground | Sites | Reservations |
|---|---|---|
| Piñon Flats Campground | 91 | Reservable |
| Medano Pass Primitive Road Campsites | 21 | First-come, first-served |
| Backpacking Campsites in the Dunes or Forest | 27 | Reservable |
Entrance fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle: $25.00
Fees are charged only when the entrance station is open in the spring, summer, and fall seasons or when the visitor center is open in the winter season. Fees can be paid by cash, check, or credit card. Passes may also be purchased in advance online through recreation.gov .
Entrance - Motorcycle: $20.00
Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
Entrance - Per Person: $15.00
Entrance Fee for Bicycles or Walk-In Visitors
Visiting several parks this year? The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entrance fees at all national parks.
Things to do
Weather
Temperatures are relatively cool all year at the park elevation 8000 ft. Conditions are most often calm, but winds can arise, especially in spring and during storm fronts. Daytime temperatures feel warmer here year round due to intense high-altitude sunlight, and mid-day summer sand surface temps can be 160 degrees F! Plan to explore the dunes morning or evening during summer. Nights are cool in summer, and frigid in winter. Visit https://nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/weather.htm for details
FAQ: Great Sand Dunes
›Are dogs allowed at Great Sand Dunes?
Pets are generally allowed only in limited areas of Great Sand Dunes. Check the official pet policy for exact rules.
›Can you camp at Great Sand Dunes?
Yes. Great Sand Dunes has 3 campgrounds, 2 of which accept reservations (via recreation.gov). See the table below for details.
›How much does it cost to enter Great Sand Dunes?
Entrance - Private Vehicle: $25.00. Fees are charged only when the entrance station is open in the spring, summer, and fall seasons or when the visitor center is open in the winter season. Fees can be paid by cash, check, or credit card. Passes may also be purchased in advance online through recreation.gov .
›What states is Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve in?
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve is located in Colorado.