What kind of off-grid haven would you build on 5 acres of rolling hills and abundant trees? This property can be yours with a low down payment of just $500 and monthly payments of $285 for 72 months, making your dream of land ownership a reality without the wait.

Discover your opportunity with this 5-acre raw land parcel in the beautiful Sangre De Cristo Ranches, located in Costilla County, Colorado. Situated at a comfortable elevation of 8425 feet on Butcher Road in Fort Garland, this land offers more than just space; it provides a stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains and captivating hills. The terrain itself is characterized by moderate slopes and appealing rolling hills, creating a dynamic and interesting landscape perfect for exploring or developing. The property is graced with light trees and shrubs, contributing to a sense of natural beauty and privacy.

Imagine waking up to the crisp, fresh mountain air, with golden sunlight streaming through the plentiful trees that define this property. This 5-acre parcel is truly special, boasting year-round road access that ensures convenience for you and your family, no matter the season. The rolling hills, set against the majestic foothills of the mountains, create a picturesque setting for your off-grid dreams. Envision a self-sufficient lifestyle, whether you plan to establish a peaceful homestead, design a private recreational retreat, or simply enjoy extended camping trips under the vast Colorado sky. With ample space and natural features, you have the freedom to create a life aligned with nature. Consider various water access options such as drilling a well, installing a cistern, or setting up a rainwater collection system to support your vision.

This unique parcel offers not just land, but a gateway to endless adventure and tranquility. Costilla County is renowned for its wealth of outdoor activities. You’ll find yourself within reach of the awe-inspiring Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, perfect for hiking, sandboarding, and unparalleled stargazing. The historic Rio Grande River, a short drive away, invites you for fishing and scenic enjoyment. For a touch of local charm and necessities, the welcoming town of Fort Garland is conveniently close. This property is more than an investment; it’s your chance to embrace independence, forge new experiences, and truly live life on your own terms. Begin planning your Colorado legacy here today.

Property details:

• County: Costilla County
• Size: 5.02 acres
• APN: 70240270
• Address: Butcher Rd, Fort Garland, CO 81133
• Access: Dirt road via Butcher Rd
• Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2Eet8RPAYBPeoomS7
• Annual Taxes: $288
• Subdivision: Sangre De Cristo Ranches
• Zoning info: Estate Residential
• Camping: RV’s or camping allowed 14 days every three months as per county regulations. Long term camping permit can be obtained while constructing a home.
• Building: Manufactured homes are allowed, minimum home size of 600 sq ft.
• No timeline for building- sit on the land as long as you’d like.

Pricing details:

• Discount Cash Price: $15,500
• Owner Financed Price: $500 Down Payment + $285 Per month for 72 Months.
• $199 document fee required to secure property and initiate purchase contract.

Contact us to learn more about this and other properties in our inventory.

Discover Life in Costilla County

Outdoor Recreation

Costilla County is a playground for anyone who loves the outdoors. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, you’ll enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, camping, hunting, and stargazing in every season. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains rise dramatically along the eastern horizon, while wide-open valley floors give you endless space to roam. Just to the north, the surreal dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve rise 750 feet into the sky — the tallest dunes in North America and a certified Dark Sky Park.

Water lovers are equally at home here. The Rio Grande River flows through the valley, while Mountain Home, Smith, and Sanchez Reservoirs provide easy access for fishing, kayaking, camping, and wildlife watching. Day trips open up even more options: the Conejos River, Rio de los Pinos, and Red River (NM) all offer classic mountain fishing, and blue-ribbon trout waters on the upper Rio Grande near Del Norte are just an hour away.

Hiking & Trails

Whether you’re looking for a gentle day hike or a challenge worthy of Colorado’s tallest peaks, the trails here deliver. Local favorites include Zapata Falls with its hidden waterfall, the peaceful Lily Lake and Spring Creek trails, and summit hikes like Ute Peak and Teddy’s Peak. For serious climbers, Mount Lindsey, Blanca Peak, and Culebra Peak (by permit) provide unforgettable 14er ascents with sweeping views across the San Luis Valley.

Parks, Forests & Wilderness

• Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve – towering dunes, hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing.
• Rio Grande National Forest – nearly 2 million acres of mountains, rivers, and trails west of the valley.
• San Isabel National Forest – to the northeast, with alpine lakes and high mountain peaks.
• Carson National Forest (NM) – just across the southern border, expanding your playground into New Mexico.
• Sangre de Cristo Wilderness – 220,000 acres of pristine backcountry with alpine lakes and rugged peaks.
• La Garita Wilderness – a massive volcanic landscape northwest of the valley, traversed by the Continental Divide Trail.
• State Wildlife Areas – Mountain Home, Smith, and Sanchez Reservoirs, all offering fishing, boating, and camping.

Wildlife and Hunting

Wildlife is part of daily life here. Herds of elk and mule deer roam the hills, pronghorn antelope dart across the valley floor, and wild horses still run free near Sanchez Reservoir. Bird watchers will find golden eagles, bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and wild turkeys throughout the seasons. For hunters, the area’s game management units are known for strong success rates and trophy animals, including elk, mule deer, and pronghorn.

History and Culture

Costilla County is proudly known as “Where Colorado Began.” San Luis, the state’s oldest town, is home to the Stations of the Cross shrine. Fort Garland, once commanded by Kit Carson, preserves Colorado’s frontier military history. The Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway connects these landmarks while telling the story of Native peoples, Spanish settlers, mountain men, and pioneers who all left their mark on this valley.

Climate and Lifestyle

At 7,500–8,000 feet in elevation, the air is clean and crisp, the nights are cool, and the skies are clear. Summers rarely climb out of the 80s, evenings drop into the 40s, and winters bring highs in the 30s with cold nights. With over 300 days of sunshine, the San Luis Valley is one of the best regions in the country for solar energy, gardening, and outdoor living.

Life here is about slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying freedom. Some landowners camp or RV seasonally, others build cabins or full-time homes, and many choose off-grid independence powered by sun and wind. Whatever your vision, this landscape gives you room to breathe.

Building and Living Options

Most parcels here are zoned Estate Residential, allowing maximum flexibility. You can build a custom cabin, tiny home, manufactured home, or modern retreat. Accessory buildings like garages, barns, and workshops are welcome, and camping or RV use is allowed with county permits. Off-grid living is especially popular, with excellent conditions for solar, wells, and septic. There are no HOA restrictions, giving you freedom to design the lifestyle you want.

Nearby Attractions

• Great Sand Dunes National Park – 1 hour
• Mountain Home, Smith, and Sanchez Reservoirs – minutes away
• Historic San Luis & Fort Garland – 15–30 minutes
• Alamosa – 45 minutes, the valley’s hub with shopping, restaurants, hospital, and Adams State University
• Rio Grande National Forest – 30 minutes
• Taos Ski Valley- 1.5 hours
• Wolf Creek Ski Area – 2 hours, famous for Colorado’s deepest powder
• Carson National Forest (NM) – 30 minutes south
• Colorado Springs – 2.5 hours
• Denver International Airport – 4 hours

We believe owning land isn’t just about property lines. It’s about the freedom, peace, and adventure that comes with it. When you make Costilla County your home base, you’re not just buying land. You’re buying a lifestyle.