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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

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Stay at a public campground in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

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.
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$50
 / night
97%
(657)

High Peaks Campground

22 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Moffat, CO
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are also a portion of the western slope of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited 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!
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$28
 / night
95%
(42)

Twin Bridges Campground

12 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Coaldale, 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.
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$40
 / night
100%
(2)

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
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
100%
(2)

Mountain Breeze Retreat

1 site ¡ RV, Tent62 acres ¡ Smeltertown, CO
Welcome to the ultimate outdoor retreat nestled just 30 minutes outside of the charming town of Salida, Colorado! Our 62-acre campsite is a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Location: Our campsite is ideally situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering you breathtaking views of rugged peaks and pristine wilderness. Located just a short drive from Salida, you'll have the convenience of town amenities while enjoying the serene beauty of the mountainous landscape. Adventure Awaits: For those craving adventure, the nearby Arkansas River offers thrilling whitewater rafting experiences. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, you'll have the opportunity to navigate the exhilarating rapids of this iconic river. It's a fantastic way to get your adrenaline pumping and create unforgettable memories. Natural Hot Springs: After an exhilarating day on the river or exploring the trails, unwind and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs in Salida. These soothing thermal pools offer the perfect relaxation experience, allowing you to soak away any fatigue while surrounded by the tranquility of the wilderness. Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by towering pine trees and majestic mountain vistas, our campsite provides a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor adventures. Whether you're hiking, mountain biking, or simply sitting by the campfire, you'll be immersed in the beauty of Colorado's pristine nature. Starry Nights: As night falls, the absence of city lights allows for a stunning display of stars in the clear mountain sky. Gaze up at the Milky Way and constellations as you relax around the campfire, creating lasting memories under the breathtaking celestial canopy. Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife that call this area home. You might spot deer, elk, eagles, and other fascinating creatures during your stay, adding an element of wonder to your outdoor experience. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventure, serene relaxation, or a bit of both, our 62-acre campsite near Salida, Colorado, is the perfect destination for your next outdoor getaway. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, experience the thrill of whitewater rafting, and soak in the natural hot springs while creating lasting memories in this mountain paradise.
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$35
 / 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%
(6)

Goatsage Mesa

1 site ¡ RV2 acres ¡ Salida, CO
Camp in the piĂąon trees only two miles from historic downtown Salida, Colorado, on private property. Great views of the Sangre De Cristo mountain range. Only one mile from the Salida Mountain Trails Mountain Bike Trail system. Paddle the nearby Arkansas River. Nearby access to both BLM and National Forest land.
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$25
 / night
100%
(161)

Camp Penguin at WPR

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents35 acres ¡ Caùon City, CO
Learn more about this land: Note:  NO FIREWORKS or GUNS are allowed to be used on the property. #WanderingPenguinRanch #CampPenguin #LifeOnTheMountain #2024 Don't forget we're at over 9,000 feet elevation and temperatures and weather conditions can vary greatly. Be prepared for all seasons!!! Camp fire usage depends on current weather conditions at the time of visits in addition to any state/county restrictions that may be in place (host approval required)!!! IF there are no restrictions and fires are allowed, we have firewood bundles and/or starter packs for purchase at $10/bundle/pack. We also have two propane fire pits available for rent (see "extras"), or you are welcome to bring your own. If you have purchased wood and there are restrictions/bans, we will gladly apply your wood purchase the rental of a propane pit. Propane fire pit usage may also be restricted by current conditions or state/county restrictions! We got a few more chickens last Fall and all seem to be doing great. We are hoping they will start laying sometime in March. They should lay several dozen eggs a week. Fresh eggs are available for purchase (when the girls are cooperating) by the dozen, or half dozen (see "extras"). You and/or your children are welcome to accompany us to gather the eggs in the evening, or we can just have them bundled and ready for you when you arrive. *UPON ARRIVAL at the property, please WAIT INSIDE our main gate (unless otherwise directed via prior communication with host). The host(s) will meet you there shortly after passing through the gate and direct you to your site. ----------------------- Camp Penguin at Wandering Penguin Ranch (facebook.com/CampPenguin) in southern Colorado is about a 3 hour drive from the Denver metro area, 90 minutes west from Colorado Springs and just under an hour north west from Canon City. We provide a variety of site options to choose from including tent sites, car/van/truck sites, and rustic trailer site options - all with NO amenities (NO electric/septic/water, etc). Additional vehicle parking on the property can be accommodated for groups with more than one vehicle. Please provide type of camper/tent and number of vehicles at booking so hosts can help direct you to the best site option available. Upon arrival campers will be greeted by Hosts and together can choose the site that works best for them from the currently available sites. Several sites are available next to our quaint little pond, or on the ridge overlooking the pond. Campers can also choose to camp in one of the nearby aspen groves, or even in the towering pines on the upper side of the property (the pine sites require HIKING to access). Each site provides its own unique beauty, mostly with an amazing view of the west side of Pikes Peak in the distance. Guests can relax around our small pond or roam freely around our 35-acre property. There is both hiking and fishing at Badger Creek only a short drive away. Waugh Mountain State Trust Land is another hiking option and is also just a short drive up the road (*NOTE: the State of Colorado now requires a valid hunting/fishing license to access state trust lands)! Additionally, we are about 45-90 minutes away from a variety of alternative adventures! Some of these include Salida, Cripple Creek, Eleven Mile Reservoir, Paradise Cove Swimming Hole, Florissant Fossil Beds, Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Manitou Incline, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, Cave of the Winds, Seven Falls, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience, several rafting/zipline and Jeep tour companies, Westcliffe, Bishop Castle and Canon City including Skyline Drive, Tunnel Drive, Royal Gorge Train, Museum of Colorado Prisons and The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. Any of these can be done as a day trip or visited while on your way here, or home. (*NOTE: some of these attractions are free, some require a fee and some are seasonal. To avoid disappointment, PLEASE do your own research prior to arrival)! Guests need to be self-sustaining to camp here as there are no facilities nearby (gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, etc.)! But, if you are looking for a peaceful, quiet getaway to commune with nature, a chance to see wildlife and simply relax.... We're your place - book your visit now!!!
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$34
 / night
100%
(21)

Observatory At South Park

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents537 acres ¡ Fairplay, CO
Observatory At South Park! THE UNIVERSE AWAITS With an incredable Night Sky, The Observatory at South Park is located on 5.37 acres in Harstel Colorado. According to web site Darksitefinder.com, The Observatory at South Park location is rated Dark Blue! That's the 3rd darkest on their scale with Gray & Black skies to the South & West. Telescope Our main Telescope this year is a custom built well-crafted 13-inch Dobsonian telescope. This scope created by Robert Teeter of Teeters Telescopes has a 13in primary mirror. Stay Up with us! See Planets, Moons, Rings, Star Clusters, Nebulas, Galaxies and more! Outdoor recreation is the maindraw to the area, The pristine South Platt River flows thru Hartsel/South Park offering great trout fishing year round. The South Platt fills 3 awesome Reservoirs, Antero, Spinney, and Eleven Mile State Park with boating, fishing, hiking, biking, swimming. Hunting is also popular on Federal lands and stat wildlife areas.
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$50
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98%
(60)

Riverfront Mountain Ranch

10 sites ¡ Lodging5 acres ¡ Buena Vista, CO
Welcome to our geographic phenomenon! Here at the continental divide; we are lucky to have it all for the Outdoor Enthusiast. Our 5 acre Campground sits right along the Arkansas River. There are (2) 1 Min trails that lead you straight to River Access. Not wanting to get that close? No worries; watch the paddlers and rafters float by all summer long. If the Arkansas River is not enough of a playground for you, you will be happy to know that you have an uninterrupted view of Mount Princeton and the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Peaks. We are also located 1/2 mile from some of the most famous mountain biking trails the USA offers. Mount Princeton Hot Springs are a beautiful 10.5 mile (15 min) drive away. Our campground offers a dreamy Bathhouse with 5 glamoured showers and 5 bathrooms. We have (14) Yurt glamping sites and (2) Riverfront studio cabins. All sites have electricity (heaters included), parking, fire pits (unless we are facing a fire ban), and picnic table. In addition, we have a large community bonfire location and there is access to outdoor grilling. We are excited to have you!
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$195
 / night
84%
(43)

Dreamweaver's Sanctuary

21 sites ¡ RVs, Tents4 acres ¡ Crestone, CO
Dreamweaver’s Sanctuary is an evolving artist collaborative project and homestead that focuses on sustainability, creativity, spiritual growth, with mindful community values. We host events and workshops, prepare meals, and we are now offering Usui-Tibetan/Holy Fire and Crystal Reiki for those looking to balance and replenish the Mind, Body and Soul. Expect surprises as we are always incorporating new and fun ideas to enhance your experience and bring unity to the locals of Crestone. In addition to this project, we invite you to join us for Hip Camp. Rustic Camping in Crestone, Colorado with the most majestic views. About the land: Imagine setting up camp in the high desert of Colorado, resting in the quiet of nature, and awakening to birds singing to you as you lay nestled in an ancient Cottonwood Grove. Next you open your eyes to the Majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, overlooking the Great Sand Dunes. Enjoy a fresh and power packed smoothie to break your overnight fast or join us in our off-grid rustic zen community kitchen and prepare what you so choose. Find yourself a comfortable spot and spend some time in meditation or join others in our Meditation Tent, engage in a peaceful and mindful conversation with other campers, enjoy a garden walk or book a Crystal or Holy Fire Reiki Session. Did we mention the sunsets!? In the evening stargazing is a favorite, as Crestone is a Dark Sky Community. And all of that is just here at the sanctuary! Venture out and find hiking trails, take a short drive and enjoy your day at the sand dunes, enjoy local Hot Springs or visit one of Crestone’s many spiritual centers or temples. While we hope you will choose to stay with us, keep in mind that this is a family friendly environment and we welcome pets. Note that we are 4:20 friendly, but kindly discourage the use of non-recreational substances and the misuse of alcohol on the premises. We have outdoor solar shower amenities and composting toilets and outhouses. There is a water and tea station available. Wifi is available but only near our Tech Deck. We look forward to welcoming you to Crestone!
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$28
 / 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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