We did not take our camera to the dunes because sand is the enemy of a digital camera. We did take our Go Pro & were able to get some pretty neat footage while sledding on the sand. If sledding is not your speed you can also rent sand boards. A little wax & you are set to go! Sleds & boards can be rented at the park store near the entrance.
Great Sand Dunes National Park charges a fee of $15 per car load & it is good for 7 days. When we visited in June the river was still running briskly but was not too deep. Make sure you bring your water shoes or an old pair of shoes because they will never be the same after a visit to Great Sand Dunes National Park. If you visit during the summer, plan to visit the park during the morning as the sun heats the sand to temperatures that will burn the skin.
Lodging near Great Sand Dunes National Park include the Piñon Flats Campground that is a national park campground. We stayed in Red River, NM & drove 1.5 hours up to the national park.
If you are in the area, do not miss the Great Sand Dunes National Park.