The Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey has completed a new solar installation, furthering its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable camping.
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) announced the project’s completion, marking a key milestone in the campground’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and integrate green energy solutions.
According to a press release, owners Debora Hankinson and Leslie Petersen have spent the last six years transforming the campground into an environmentally conscious destination.
Located near the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, the campground holds a Kamp Green certification through KOA’s sustainability program, recognizing its environmentally friendly operations.
“We believe in making meaningful changes that not only benefit our campground but also protect the environment for future generations,” Hankinson said.
“Our solar project is just one of many initiatives that allow us to operate responsibly and give our guests a more sustainable camping experience,” Petersen added.
The new solar panels will help power the campground’s operations, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. The installation complements a range of eco-friendly practices already in place at the Alamosa/Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey, aligning the campground’s operations with its sustainability goals.
Among these efforts, the campground features two electric vehicle charging stations and one EV-compatible RV site, supporting electric vehicle use and reducing emissions.
At an elevation of 7,500 feet in a high alpine desert, the property prioritizes water conservation by planting only native, drought-resistant trees and shrubs.
Landscaping practices also avoid the use of pesticides and herbicides. Instead, campground staff hand-pull weeds, creating a safer environment for guests, pets, and the local aquifer. Despite the absence of city recycling pick-up, the campground manages its own recycling program, collecting and transporting materials to a local recycling center each week.
In its hospitality operations, the campground reduces waste by using reusable utensils during pancake breakfasts and delivering firewood loose rather than wrapped in plastic. The approach aligns with its broader goal of minimizing single-use items and promoting sustainable guest experiences.
As a neighbor to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, a designated Global Dark Sky Park, the campground has taken steps to reduce light pollution. These include installing motion-controlled lighting and using Dark Sky-certified fixtures to protect the area’s nighttime environment.
The campground also built a Dark Sky Viewing Deck, offering guests an opportunity to view the Milky Way and distant planets. A telescope is available on clear nights, and binoculars can be rented throughout the camping season.
Beyond the campground, Hankinson and Petersen extend their sustainability efforts to their neighboring 80-acre farm. The farm is home to pigs, chickens, goats, and ducks and includes a 33-foot growing dome that allows for year-round food production.