| Great Sand Dunes is currently making the transition from a National Monument and Preserve to a full National Park. A new Visitor Center with upgraded exhibits and information is scheduled for completion in 2004. The park remains open during the renovations. After paying the $3 fee at the south entrance, tourists arrive at the temporary Visitor Center east of the dunes. Just up the road is the Piñon Flats Campground, with 88 sites. The campground often fills on summer weekends. During summer in wet years, nearby Mosca Creek offers opportunities for sand castles and other beach-like fun for kids and pets. From the campground, a four-wheel drive road heads farther north, leading to more remote campsites, picnic tables, and trailheads. The road eventually turns east and heads over Medano Pass and out of the park. |