Rolling backcountry permit releaseTimed release
Released up to three months before the trip start date at 8:00 am MST each day. Trip window: Year-round rolling release.
National Park Service · CO
Great Sand Dunes National Park Backcountry Permits
Overnight backcountry camping in the dunefield and along the Sand Ramp Trail, reservable on a rolling basis up to three months ahead.
Permit requiredovernightModerate to strenuous
Access requirement
How to get a permit
Permit rules
QuotaSeven designated sites along the Sand Ramp Trail plus 20 non-designated sites in the Dunes Backcountry, which allow up to 20 permits per day. Maximum 14 nights per permit holder.
GroupLimit of 6 people and 2 vehicles per permit.
Fees$6.00 non-refundable reservation fee per permit; the permit also covers an overnight parking permit for each vehicle (up to two).
TransferPermit holder may modify itinerary, group size, member names, emergency contact, or vehicle information before printing the permit.
SafetyWater sources are seasonal; plan to carry about 1 gallon per person per night. Sand temperatures can reach 150 F on summer afternoons; avoid the dunes midday. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common in warmer months.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
Medano Pass Primitive Road Campsites
First-come
Availability: Unavailable
Pinon Flats Campground
Reservable + first-come · The entrance fee for Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is $25 for 1-7 days. This fee is not included in the camping fee. Interagency passes are accepted at the entrance station. If you do not have an interagency pass, you may purchase pass in advance or pay upon arrival.
Aug 2527Aug 2636Aug 2734Aug 281Aug 291Aug 3035Aug 3143
Availability: Recreation.gov
Duncan Cabin
Reservable
Aug 251Aug 261Aug 271Aug 28—Aug 291Aug 301Aug 311
Availability: Recreation.gov
Zapata Falls Campground
Reservable · Individual Sites = $11/night Group Tent Site = $20/night 14 day Max Stay
Aug 2518Aug 2627Aug 2723Aug 288Aug 2913Aug 3025Aug 3127
Availability: Recreation.gov