The Zapata Falls Site 4 Campsite is a developed, reservable, and fee area located in the San Luis watershed of Colorado. The campsite offers stunning views of the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Nearby points of interest include the Zapata Falls Trailhead, which is just a short hike away, and the historic town of Fort Garland.
Campground amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. There is also a nearby water source, but visitors are advised to bring their own drinking water. The area is home to several wildlife species, including black bears, mountain lions, and elk. Visitors are advised to take precautions when camping in bear country.
Interesting facts about the area include that the Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching heights of over 750 feet. The area was also designated a National Park in 2004, and it is estimated that the sand dunes have been forming for over 440,000 years.
The best time of year to visit the Zapata Falls Site 4 Campsite is during the summer months, from June to August, when the average temperature ranges from 45 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures in the evening and sudden changes in weather.
Sources:
- https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=29053
- https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm
- https://www.colorado.com/articles/colorado-camping-zapata-falls-campground.
