Campe Diem

Are you a Colorado local yearning for an escape into the wilderness that feels genuinely private and unplugged, yet still offers a comfortable base for your adventures? Look no further than Campe Diem in Fort Garland, Colorado. This unique dispersed campground is designed for those who appreciate the raw beauty of Colorado's landscapes and prefer a more self-sufficient, laid-back camping experience over crowded, amenity-rich resorts.

Campe Diem embraces the spirit of true Colorado camping, providing expansive, secluded sites where you can truly "seize the day" (or night!) under a blanket of stars. It's a place where privacy is paramount, views are abundant, and the "camping vibes" are undeniably chill. For Coloradans, this means an accessible and authentic opportunity to reconnect with nature, explore the vast San Luis Valley, and enjoy the peace and quiet that defines the Centennial State's outdoor appeal. If you're accustomed to or even prefer a "step up" from raw wilderness camping without crossing into "glamping" territory, Campe Diem is your ideal destination.

Location and Accessibility

Campe Diem is located on Butchy Rd, Fort Garland, CO 81133, USA. This placement in Costilla County, within the scenic San Luis Valley, makes it a strategic and appealing destination for Colorado residents. Fort Garland itself is a small, historic town, serving as a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures and cultural sites in Southern Colorado.

The campground’s accessibility is part of its charm, but it comes with a friendly heads-up: the drive to the individual campsites can be "a bit bumpy." This means that while most vehicles can access the land during summer, having a vehicle with "decent clearance" is recommended for a smoother ride. If your vehicle doesn't have high clearance, driving slowly and making careful decisions will ensure a successful arrival. This characteristic contributes to the secluded feel of the property, keeping it ideal for those seeking privacy and an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Despite its feeling of seclusion, Campe Diem is conveniently located:

• Approximately 10 minutes' drive from Fort Garland, where you can find essential services like a pizzeria, diner, and a convenience store.
• Just minutes away (around two miles) from Mountain Home Reservoir, a scenic state park perfect for cooling off on warm days.
• Roughly 45 minutes from the spectacular Great Sand Dunes National Park, a must-visit Colorado landmark.
• Around 20 minutes from San Luis, Colorado's oldest continuously occupied town, offering historical and cultural exploration, including the Shrine of the Stations of the Cross.
• About 30 minutes from Blanca Peak and 40 minutes from Zapata Falls, both popular hiking destinations.

The owner, R.H., is highly responsive to messages, ensuring that directions and any necessary information are clear for a smooth arrival, even with the self-serve check-in process via the Hipcamp app.

Services Offered

• Dispersed Camping Sites: Large, private areas for setting up tents or parking pop-up campers/RVs. Each site often has a unique tag name (e.g., "Bertha," "Pismo").
• Outdoor Shower Area: A basic four-wall structure providing an outdoor shower, toilet, and sink. It’s functional and a step up from true wilderness showering, though it's important to note that the toilet may require bringing your own water to flush.
• Fire Pit Options: Most campsites appear to offer a couple of fire pit options, allowing for campfires (always check local fire restrictions).
• Self-Serve Check-in: Payments and bookings are handled online through the Hipcamp app, providing a seamless, contactless arrival process.
• Pet-Friendly: Four-legged friends are very welcome to join in the camping action.
• Non-Potable Water (at some sites): Some sites may provide large jugs of non-potable water, useful for hand washing or other non-drinking uses.
• Firewood: While not explicitly stated as sold on-site, one review mentioned purchased firewood was available for pickup upon arrival, suggesting it might be an option through booking.
• Owner Responsiveness: The owner, R.H., is highly responsive to messages, ensuring a good communication channel for guests.

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Privacy and Seclusion: Campe Diem is renowned for its large, private campsites, allowing guests to spread out and enjoy nature without feeling crowded. This is a significant draw for those who value solitude and a true wilderness feel.
• Authentic Dispersed Camping Vibe: This is not a "glamping" destination but offers a perfect "step up" from pure wilderness camping. It appeals to travelers who enjoy primitive, laid-back outdoor experiences.
• Stunning Views: The campground boasts "beautiful views," including exceptional sunsets, sunrises, and unparalleled stargazing due to minimal light pollution in Costilla County. Panoramic mountain views are a consistent highlight.
• Proximity to Mountain Home Reservoir: Being just minutes away from this scenic state park provides easy access to cooling off, fishing, swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding during the day.
• Unique Site Tagging: Individual campsites are identified by fun, personalized names (e.g., "Bertha," "Pismo"), adding a quirky and memorable touch to the experience.
• Functional Outdoor Facilities: While basic, the outdoor shower, toilet, and sink area serve their purpose, providing essential amenities for comfortable rustic camping.
• Off-Grid Potential: The property is noted as being off-grid, promoting a true escape from modern distractions and embracing renewable energy.
• Suitable for Various Vehicles: While high clearance is recommended for comfort, careful driving can allow most vehicles to access the sites, making it broadly accessible.
• Excellent Owner Communication: The owner, R.H., is highly praised for being very responsive and helpful, ensuring guests feel supported even with the self-serve check-in.
• Nearby Attractions: Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Great Sand Dunes National Park, Blanca Peak, Zapata Falls, and the historic town of San Luis.

Contact Information

Address: Butchy Rd, Fort Garland, CO 81133, USA

Phone: (406) 260-8151

Mobile Phone: +1 406-260-8151

For bookings and detailed information, Campe Diem primarily operates through the Hipcamp platform. Guests are advised to use the Hipcamp app for reservations and communication with the owner, R.H., who is noted for being highly responsive through this channel.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Colorado locals seeking an authentic, private, and truly "Colorado" camping experience, Campe Diem in Fort Garland is an exceptional choice. It embodies the essence of dispersed camping with the added comfort of designated, uniquely named sites and basic facilities, striking a perfect balance between rugged adventure and practical convenience. This makes it ideal for Coloradans who value solitude and the freedom to spread out, a stark contrast to more crowded, traditional campgrounds.

Its "very chill and laid-back place with great camping vibes" resonates deeply with the independent spirit of Colorado outdoor enthusiasts. The "beautiful sunrise" and stunning views, coupled with the opportunity for unparalleled stargazing, provide the kind of natural spectacle that draws residents to the state's wild corners. The proximity to Mountain Home Reservoir for cooling off and fishing, and the relatively short drive to the iconic Great Sand Dunes National Park, position Campe Diem as a perfect base for exploring the rich outdoor offerings of the San Luis Valley.

While the access roads require a vehicle with decent clearance or careful driving, this minor consideration contributes to the feeling of seclusion that many locals actively seek. The self-serve check-in via Hipcamp and the highly responsive owner ensure a smooth, low-fuss experience from start to finish. For RVers, pop-up campers, and tent campers who appreciate a "step up" from primitive wilderness camping without venturing into the "glamping" realm, Campe Diem offers a genuine, affordable, and deeply rewarding outdoor escape right in the heart of Southern Colorado.

Campe Diem

Butchy Rd, Fort Garland, CO 81133, USA