Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey Completes Solar Installation
STAFF REPORT
ALAMOSA — Kampgrounds of America, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey has officially completed its solar project, marking a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainable camping and environmental stewardship. The new solar installation helps power campground operations, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and reinforcing the Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey’s dedication to green practices.
Owners Debora Hankinson and Leslie Petersen have spent the past six years transforming the campground into an eco-conscious retreat, integrating sustainable amenities that align with the region’s unique high alpine desert landscape. The Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey is a designated environmentally-friendly campground through KOA’s Kamp Green certification program.
“We believe in making meaningful changes that not only benefit our campground but also protect the environment for future generations,” said Debora Hankinson, co-owner of Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey. “Our solar project is just one of many initiatives that allow us to operate responsibly and give our guests a more sustainable camping experience.”
In addition to the newly installed solar panels, Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey abides by a variety of eco-friendly practices, including two EV Charging Stations and one EV RV site, encouraging electric vehicle use and reducing carbon emissions.
Perched at 7,500 feet in a high alpine desert, the Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey prioritizes water conservation by exclusively planting native, drought-resistant trees and shrubs.
The campground can also boast of chemical-free landscaping as no pesticides or herbicides are used on the property. Instead, staff members hand-pull weeds, ensuring a safer environment for guests, pets, and the local aquifer.
While the city of Alamosa does not yet provide recycling pick-up, the campground manages an in-house recycling system for campground operations and staff, transporting materials to the local recycling center each week.
Guests at the KOA’s pancake breakfasts enjoy reusable utensils instead of disposable plastic, and firewood is delivered loose rather than wrapped in plastic, further minimizing waste and promoting sustainable hospitality.
As a neighbor to the Great Sand Dunes National Park—a designated Global Dark Sky Park—the Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey is actively involved in dark sky conservation. The campground has taken significant steps to reduce light pollution, including the installation of motion-controlled lighting and Dark Sky-certified fixtures.
The campground recently built a Dark Sky Viewing Deck, giving guests stunning views of the Milky Way and distant planets. A telescope is available on clear nights, and binoculars can be rented throughout the season. As efforts progress to establish a broader Dark Sky Reserve around the National Park, Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey already meets the required lighting standards.
Beyond the campground, Debora and Leslie extend their commitment to sustainability through their 80-acre farm next door. Home to pigs, chickens, goats, and ducks, the farm also features a 33-foot growing dome for year-round food production. Their philosophy of environmental responsibility is blending personal and professional efforts to preserve the region’s beauty and resources.
The completion of the solar installation is a milestone, but the Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey is always exploring new ways to enhance sustainability. With its dedication to green energy, conservation, and outdoor education, the campground offers a model for responsible tourism in Colorado’s San Luis Valley.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit the campground’s website, or call 1-800-562-9157. Reservations are also available by going online or using the KOA App.