05/01/2026
Tips for visiting the Great Sand Dunes National Park in May!
#1 Tip stop by SpinDrift Sandboards in Blanca to grab the some boards and sleds…we have the best selection of sandsport equipment in the San Luis Valley for every level of rider. First time visiting the dunes? We have you covered with expert tips and tricks to set you up for success!
Planning a visit to Great Sand Dunes this May? Here are some for a successful trip!
· It has been a very warm and dry winter and snowpack above the dunes is minimal. It is unlikely that Medano Creek will reach the main Dunes Parking area this year. To access the water, be prepared to hike at least 1/2 mile on sand or to drive on the Primitive Road to Sand Pit or Castle Creek. Accessing these locations requires a 4WD high clearance vehicle - AWD and 2WD are prohibited. Follow Medano Creek’s detailed current and forecast flow on our Medano Creek page - https://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/medano-creek.htm
· Even without the creek, expect huge crowds on weekends in late May and early June, particularly Memorial Day weekend. Traffic lines can reach up to 3 miles long, and parking lots overflow, with cars parked along roadways. Plan your visit on weekdays for less traffic and congestion. Early morning and evening hours are less crowded.
· Weather in May can be unpredictable! It’s still possible for the park to have springtime high winds and snow flurries. Once the days heat up, however, sand temperatures can reach up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoons. Check the park’s weather online before coming and plan for a variety of weather conditions. https://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/weather.htm
· All camping in the Piñon Flats Campground is by reservation only. Reservations can be made at - https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234685. For other lodging options, check our website at - https://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/eatingsleeping.htm
· Planning to sled or sandboard? Rent sleds before heading to the park – there are no options to rent or purchase sleds or sandboards within the Great Sand Dunes. Find rental options at Sandboarding and Sand Sledding - https://www.nps.gov/.../plan.../sandboardingsandsledding.htm
Have a safe and fun peak season visit!
NPS photo/Shelly Hill
Image description: A small amount of water in Medano Creek winds through the sand in front of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This photo was taken April 25 about ¾ mile upstream of the Dunes Parking.
