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The best camping near Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Arkansas Headwaters adventure.

88% (12 reviews)
88% (12 reviews)

Camping comes with a dose of adrenaline and a side of adventure along the Arkansas River.  

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Community favorites near Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

97%
(657)

High Peaks Campground

22 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Moffat, CO
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley! Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With 360 mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!
from 
$28
 / night
Booked 4 times

Salida RV Resort

107 sites ¡ RVs10 acres ¡ Salida, CO
Salida RV Resort is a brand new luxury RV park in Colorado with over 1,600 feet of Arkansas riverfrontage and is surrounded by the beautiful Collegiate Peak mountains. Book your spacious RV Site and be just 2.5 miles to shops and dining in Salida’s lovely and hip historic downtown district. With year-round full hookup RV Sites, Salida has four seasons of outdoor adventure awaiting you! Perfect for year-round guests, we offer access to all of the wonderful river activities, including our private river access ramp for non-motorized rafts and floats. Visitors can explore wonderful mountain biking and hiking trails for all skill levels in the nearby Sawatch Range, or participate in the town of Salida’s many great summer festivities! In the winter, Monarch Ski Resort is just 23 miles away. Don’t forget to take a dip in one of the local hot springs while you’re here any time of year! Salida’s mild year-round climate caused by the “banana belt” is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets!
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$65
 / night
96%
(28)

Creekside Chalets

13 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Salida, CO
Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(1)

Sweetwater River Ranch

66 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents31 acres ¡ Cotopaxi, CO
Sweetwater River Resort is located on the Arkansas river, 30 minutes from Canyon City and 30 minutes from Salida where Hwy 50 follows the river through Bighorn Canyon. Skiers, we are only 40 miles from Monarch Ski Resort. You’ll enter a different world–a sanctuary away from the fast pace and pressures of ordinary life. Sweetwater River Resort is a nature-lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and fly fishing fanatic’s dream nestled on the banks of the beautiful juniper-lined Arkansas River. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind with plenty of rivers to explore outside the confines of city life. At night you’ll find the clearest skies around, perfect for stargazing. Experience a range of accommodations at Sweetwater River Resort, from budget-friendly cabins to glamping tents and even RV sites. Choose from Rustic Cabins, Pioneer Cabins, Deluxe Cabins, or Glamping Tents to call Sweetwater your home away from home. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself. At Sweetwater River Resort, there's something for everyone. Fish along our private half-mile of river frontage, go whitewater rafting or kayaking, soak in nearby hot springs, hike or mountain bike through the mountains, pan for gold, stargaze at night, and spot eagles, osprey, and other birds. Keep an eye out for Big Horn sheep, pronghorn, and elk, and marvel at the beauty of Colorado's aspen trees in the fall. Explore a nearby ghost town or simply relax by the water. Located near numerous attractions, Sweetwater River Resort is a short drive from 45 miles of 4x4 and ATV trails at Texas Creek, the Arkansas Headwaters Hiking Area, Vallie Bridge Loma Linda, Lone Pine, Hayden Creek, Royal Gorge, and The Bluff Trail Hiking in Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!
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$35
 / night
95%
(42)

Twin Bridges Campground

12 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Cotopaxi, CO
Camp alongside the Arkansas River (considered Gold Medal for the quality of trout per acre) with white water rafting May-Labor Day. We accommodate tents, vans, or RV's or we can provide an RV or tent. Restrooms and showers are easily accessible. We also have camping by the pond with easy access to the river. We offer bank fishing, fly fishing lessons, and guided fishing on the property or will arrange guided tours for fishing the Arkansas River, white water rafting, horseback riding, or having a zipline adventure. When fishing from the bank, no lures or or treble hooks and catch and release only. Pictures welcome! There are several Colorado mountains (fourteeners) to hike/climb in the vicinity. We have 4 acres on the waters of the Arkansas River. Our pond will be accessible next year. We will create the adventure you deserve - from guided fishing, fly fishing lessons, (children and adults) or fishing from the bank. Zipline, jeep, and horseback tours are not far from the campground. We can recommend several white water rafting companies based on your specific needs.
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(4)

Cotton Creek Ranch

99 sites ¡ RVs, Tents65 acres ¡ Moffat, CO
Located in northern San Luis Valley at the edge of the Sangre de Christo mountains. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of sun rises and sun sets while listening to cotton creek rippling through the woods. Spectacular views views. Close to national forest trail heads, Sand Dunes National park, Orient mine, Sand hill crane migration, and more.
from 
$50
 / night
96%
(120)

Twisted Sisters Farm

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents60 acres ¡ Florissant, CO
I bought this land to move from HoustonLearn more about this land:I widened the gate and moved my mailbox for easier access. Butane fire rings allowed on private property during a fire ban . Camp anywhere on 60 acres. In one direction there are rolling meadow. Another rocky outcropping. Look to the south and you’ll see the BLM land that shares my fence line. If you want access to town you’re there. You choose how you want to feel. In the woods, in the forest, on huge rocks, flat land or turn around and see CR 1 ( 1/4 mile driveway). Forty five minutes west of Colorado Springs, ten miles to Divide for grocers. One half mile to ice, gas, pizza etc.  It is first come first serve with the sites.  Two that are near trees for large RVs.  One up higher works for pull thru trailers.  Plenty of room in the pasture.  I just got my first negative review referring to it being dry prairie land.  Some  pictures are from late last summer..  We haven’t had enough rain yet for it to green up.  Also it can be windy.
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(64)

Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Moffat, CO
Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing.Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching.
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$25
 / night
100%
(125)

Frenchman's Creek Ranch

4 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs100 acres ¡ Buena Vista, CO
We have a 100+ acre working ranch with access to the Arkansas river for fishing, kayaking or just dipping your feet in. We have great views of the Collegiate Peaks 14ers and the Harvard trail is just up the hill. Frenchman's creek runs through the ranch which has hay fields, aspens, cottonwoods, pinons, cows, chickens, sheep and pigs. Deer, elk, coyotes and bobcats also wander through. We are 15 minutes from BV, 10 minutes from Clear Creek Reservoir, 20 minutes from Twin Lakes and 30 minutes from Leadville.
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$55
 / night
100%
(1)

Wyldr Ranch

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Nathrop, CO
We are sitting on 5 open space acres looking out at the Collegiate Peaks. Plenty of space to stretch your legs, let your dog roam and set up camp however you desire. Outdoor activities within minutes from our property are: hiking, boating, rafting, skiing, hot springs, horseback riding, atv riding, and paddle boarding. We are 15 minutes to the town of Salida and 15 minutes to the town of Buena Vista where you can find great restaurants, coffee shops and shopping.
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$45
 / night
97%
(55)

Mountain Goat Lodge Tipis

7 sites ¡ Lodging20 acres ¡ Salida, CO
The Mountain Goat Lodge is set within 20 acres of rolling pastures at the foot of the famous Sawatch Mountain Range. Our resident goats roam the meadows, providing us with the milk, cheese, and yogurt for our tasty homecooked breakfasts and our cheese-making classes. We are located in central Colorado in pristine wilderness, yet just 6 miles from the historic town of Salida. In addition to the tipis, we are a full service Bed and Breakfast lodge. We have campers and a vintage trailer available to rent. The tipis have a full-sized bathhouse for use by our tipi guests. Guests need to provide their own toiletries and towels. New in 2022: We have added a queen sized bed and mattress to each of the tipis.. Campers still should bring their own bedding (sleeping bags, pillows) or if need be, can rent bedding from us.
from 
$109
 / night
93%
(20)

Lake George Gulch

2 sites ¡ Lodging40 acres ¡ Florissant, CO
Come have free range on wide open 40 Acres! TWO CABINS AVAILABLE! ASK! Loft sleeping areas, gas cooktops, and sinks. These cabins are OFF-GRID and run entirely on solar energy. Waterless toilets.Walking distance to Spinney Mountain Reservoir and a short drive to trophy fishing at Antero, and Eleven mile, as well as the "Dream Stream". We have many available primitive tent sites and RV sites that are private or go ahead and make your own site if you find the perfect spot. Feel free to bring your machines as we have direct access to National Forests and BLM land.
from 
$119
 / night

The best camping near Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area guide

Overview

About


With its rocky canyons, forested riverbanks, and backdrop of snow-hatted mountains, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is made for outdoor adventures. White-water rafting enthusiasts can tackle class IV and V rapids along the Arkansas River—one of the United States’ most popular rafting rivers—but you can also paddle gentler sections in a kayak and fish for brown and rainbow trout. Alternatively, head into the hills to hike, mountain bike, or rock climb, pick up some speed along the OHV trails, or try your luck gold panning by the riverside. The park’s eight campgrounds all have direct river access.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for outdoor enthusiasts: Hecla Junction has 22 tent or RV sites with easy access for kayakers, rafters, and hikers. 
  • Best for RVs: Rincon Campground has spacious sites with riverside fishing right on the doorstep. 
  • Best for peace and quiet: Vallie Bridge has 16 walk-in tent sites in a secluded spot by Bighorn Sheep Canyon.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve one of the park’s 140 campsites via the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. All campsites must be booked in advance, but same-day bookings are allowed.
  2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance. 
  3. Campsites can book up quickly, especially for holiday weekends and during peak season (June through August)—make your reservation as soon as possible. 

When to go

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is open year-round, but it’s busiest from May through September. This is the main season for rafting and water activities, while some of the best fishing is in early spring or from late summer through fall. Winter camping is possible if you don’t mind braving the cold, and the surrounding mountains provide options for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. 

Know before you go

  • Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is located along a 152-mile long stretch of the Arkansas River. The main entrance to the park is at Salida, 100 miles west of Colorado Springs or about a 2-hour drive. Highways 24, 285, and 50 run through the park.
  • A vehicle pass is payable in addition to camping fees.
  • Facilities in the park include a Visitor Center in downtown Salida, restrooms, and picnic areas, but you should bring everything you need with you. Cell phone service is patchy throughout.
  • AHRA campgrounds provide tent pads, picnic tables, and grills, but there is no electricity or running water. Dispersed camping is also allowed throughout the park, but you must use a portable toilet system and fire pan. 
  • All AHRA campgrounds except Salida East, Point Barr and Vallie Bridge have at least one accessible campsite and accessible restrooms.

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