The best camping near Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

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.

• 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.

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. 

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. 

• 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.