The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is an agency within the federal government that manages and conserves 245 million acres of land in the United States. In Colorado, several Bureau of Land Management sites are available for outdoor enjoyment. The sites also offer picnic areas, campgrounds, educational programs, and nature trails. With various recreational opportunities to explore wild places like these, BLM sites in Colorado provide breathtaking views and adventure while preserving our country's natural beauty. You can find BLM sites by searching "BLM camping near me." Zapata Falls Campground BLM site is a beautiful and remote camping destination in the heart of San Luis Valley, Colorado. It features a two-mile-long dirt road that leads to a vast open meadow amid the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, in proximity to the Rocky Mountains National Forest. You can enjoy many activities like bird watching, ATV riding, horseback riding, and rock climbing. Its stunning waterfall lets visitors capture photos of it and hike through its grandeur. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is 16 minutes from the BLM site and is home to some of the tallest dunes in North America.
Zapata Falls Trail is a short out-and-back trail. You will meander along a stream for the whole track and then find yourself at a waterfall between rocks. An overlook provides the perfect spot to take pictures of the waterfall. Length: 0.87 miles Intensity: Easy
With an elevation gain of more than 3,000 feet, you will enjoy the stunning view of two small alpine lakes at the end of this out-and-back trail. Length: 9.7 miles Intensity: Difficult
Start your day early to finish this extended out-and-back trail by evening. On your way, you will pass Sangre De Cristo Wilderness before enjoying great views of Blanca Peak and Ellingwood Point. Length: 14.8 miles Intensity: Difficult
Consider this route if you want an easy hike. This loop trail takes you through the campground and its meadows and is excellent for bird-watching. Length: 1.1 miles Intensity: Easy
There are plenty of fishing opportunities near the Zapata Falls Campground BLM site. Visit South Zapata Lake, known for its threatened greenback cutthroat trout. Medano Creek is 1.5 miles from the BLM site, and you can catch rainbow and brook trout. You must have a valid fishing license for all fishing activities in Colorado.
At over 14,000 feet, Little Bear Peak has routes of different difficulty levels, and you can spend up to four hours reaching the summit.
Visit California Peak, and you will discover numerous routes ranging from easy to challenging. The summit is 13,855 feet high and provides impressive views of the Sangre de Cristo Range.
Zapata Falls Campground is home to wild animals, such as coyotes, elk, deer, and rocky mountain bighorn sheep. Visitors have spotted birds like raptors, eagles, hawks, songbirds, and waterfowl.
Near Zapata Falls Campground offers picnickers a unique opportunity to soak up the beauty of the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Campers can reserve one of two designated picnic sites, both equipped with grills, covered shelters, and tables. You can make beautiful memories as you bask in large grassy areas surrounded by wildflowers and evergreen trees.
BLM RV camping at Zapata Falls Campground is available. Visitors can choose from various camping opportunities, including tent sites, RV sites with utility hook-ups, and unique yurts. Amenities include free WiFi access, restrooms, hot showers, and well-maintained grills. There is also an amphitheater where experienced naturalists conduct educational programs. Other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds include Blanca RV Park, Mosca Campground, and Escape Dunes.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is possible around Zapata Falls Campground. The geographical area has several dispersed camping sites like Wild Horse, Spring Creek, and White Oaks Campground. All campers should practice "Leave No Trace" principles to ensure that future visitors can also enjoy their outdoor experience.
Pack comfortable outdoor gear like hiking boots and layered clothing when visiting Zapata Falls Campground. You can also purchase a Colorado State Fishing license at the site, valid for the entire year. The BLM reserves the right to close certain areas because of hazardous weather and other conditions. Visitors should plan accordingly because the area's climate can be cold and wet. The nearest town is Alamosa, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Here you can find supplies, groceries, and other amenities. Before heading out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
When visiting Zapata Falls Campground and other BLM locations, please remember to "Leave No Trace." This includes packing all your trash, disposing of pet and human waste responsibly, respecting wildlife, and not disturbing vegetation. You must clean up after your pet and not leave any food out overnight. This site is a fantastic place to explore, and by following these simple guidelines, you can help keep it wild and beautiful for generations to come.
Zapata Falls Campground is a few minutes from San Luis Valley in Alamosa, Colorado. It is approximately seven miles from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. From Highway 160, take Highway 150 and continue for 16 miles and then take a right and join Lake of the Falls Parkway to reach the campground. Address: 1313 U.S. Hwy 160 E., Monte Vista, CO 81144 Ready to visit Zapata Falls Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, enjoying a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
