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Grasslands, large dunes, and snow-capped peaks at sunset

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve

warningPark Closure6 warnings calendar_monthMay–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule2 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$15entry
Great Sand Dunes National Park & PreserveYour own route Plan a trip here →
Park Closure WNP Park Store CLOSED on Tuesday September 29, Visitor Center Remains OPEN

The Western National Parks Store located in the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center will be CLOSED on Tuesday September 29th for annual inventory. No store sales will be available in the park that day. Visitors may make purchases that day via the Western National Parks online store. Details open_in_new

Caution Flood Watch in Effect for Great Sand Dunes & San Luis Valley Through 10/1

The park is expecting up to 2-3 inches of rain in the next 3 days (through Thursday).  Please be aware of and prepared for current and changing conditions. Visitors are urged to track National Weather Service Advisories and Alerts on Weather.gov. Details open_in_new

Caution Speed Limits are Much Lower Inside Park than Surrounding Highways

Speed limits for the park include 30 MPH near the park boundary and Great Sand Dunes Sign, and as low as 10 MPH near the Headquarters and Entrance Station. Speed limits are in place to protect park visitors, pedestrians, and wildlife in the park. Please drive carefully and respon

Information Great Sand Dunes Currently at Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

As of August 18th, Great Sand Dunes is under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. All wood and charcoal fires must be in established fire rings in designated campsites or picnic sites. No other open fires are allowed. Fires MUST BE put out COLD before leaving your site and must not be left

Information Piñon Flats Campground, sites can be reserved 3 months in advance for 2026

Due to the need for improvements in Piñon Flats Campground, sites can be reserved 3 months in advance beginning in 2026.

Information Sand Board and Sand Sled Rentals Not Available In Park.

Sand boarding and sand sled rentals are located in local communities surrounding the park. Visitors are encouraged to arrange rentals BEFORE coming to the park. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve features the tallest sand dunes in North America, rising over 700 feet. Visitors come to experience the unique landscape, which includes diverse ecosystems and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and sandboarding.

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The park is located at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, providing a striking contrast between the dunes and the surrounding peaks. Many travelers appreciate the chance to stargaze in this remote area, as light pollution is minimal.

In pictures

Girls Sand Sledding
Girls Sand Sledding

Practical

At a glance

Established
2004
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Non-commercial Groups $15, Per Person $15, Motorcycle $20
Accessibility
partially accessible
Address
Visitor Center, Mosca, CO 81146
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
(719) 378-6395
Price
~$15
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect busy weekends during summer months.
Tickets are required for vehicle entry, check online for current prices.
Bring layers, temperatures can vary significantly between day and night.
Sand can get very hot, wear appropriate footwear.

Photo: NPS/Patrick Myers