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Camping near Buena Vista

Pitch your tent between the Arkansas River and the Rocky Mountains at a Buena Vista campsite.

92% (1392 reviews)
92% (1392 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Buena Vista

Under $50

Available this weekend

12 top campgrounds near Buena Vista

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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from 
$50
 / 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%
(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
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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from 
$40
 / 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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from 
$65
 / night
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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from 
$195
 / night
94%
(62)

Bristlecone Camp Breckenridge

1 site ¡ RV, Tent160 acres ¡ Alma, CO
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from 
$50
 / 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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from 
$50
 / night
97%
(35)

Sawatch Base Camp

2 sites ¡ Lodging10 acres ¡ Leadville, CO
Completely surrounded by National Forest in the heart of the Rockies at 10,600 feet in elevation, Sawatch Base Camp is one of a kind property at the site of an old turquoise mine with accessible yet private backcountry lodging. Located 6 miles northwest of Leadville, Colorado and 1 mile north of Turquoise Lake, Sawatch Base Camp is perched on a hill overlooking the Arkansas Headwaters, Leadville and the Mosquito Range including 14er Mt. Sherman. This prime location gives quick access to all the best outdoor recreation of the High Rockies, while also being removed enough to provide solitude and quality time with friends and family. In summer and fall (May through November), the property has vehicle access by Forest Service Road 103- known by many other names depending on mapping service including County Road 9A, Turquoise Chief Rd, and St. Kevin Rd. This segment of road is part of the famous Leadville 100 MTB race, lying at roughly Mile 8/Mile 95. In winter months (roughly Thanksgiving through April), the camp is accessible by snowmobile, ski or snowshoe on groomed multi-use winter trails open to the public. The trek in is approximately 4.4 miles from the Leadville Junction Parking Lot, with an elevation gain of roughly 800 feet. The terrain around the yurt provides backcountry skiing through trees with occasional glades. Our backcountry lodging is designed to have minimal impact on the landscape, intentionally rustic while also providing amenities like a wood stove, solar lighting, plush beds and a roomy indoor space to gather. Firewood and propane for the camp stove are provided. The restroom is an outhouse a few yards from the yurt stocked with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Sawatch Base Camp operates under Lake County CUPs 21-10 and 23-33.
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$159
 / 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
Booked 3 times

Columbia Campsites

1 site ¡ Tent5 acres ¡ Buena Vista, CO
This 5 acre piece of land is entirely surrounded by National Forest, with the North Cottonwood Creek flowing through the property. Feel like you are far from everything, while being right at the trailhead for Mt Columbia and Mt Harvard and only a 15-20 minute drive into Buena Vista. This reservation covers your reserved campsite and parking spot, off the main dirt road. Firewood and a fire ring are provided. There is also an outhouse on the property.
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$45
 / night
91%
(27)

Camp with a view!

1 site ¡ Tent2 acres ¡ Jefferson, CO
We purchased this land as a campsite for family outings. We have 2 kids and 2 dogs that love running through the aspens, cedars, and pines. There are 2 stocked fishing ponds in the neighborhood you're welcome to use. (Stocked in June usually). Fire pit and plenty of wood if the county doesn't have any fire restrictions. You're welcome to drive onto the property to unload your camp gear but please park on the cul-de-sac. Enjoy!
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$25
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Hosts in Buena Vista

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Camping near Buena Vista guide

Overview

Tiny Buena Vista lies in South Central Colorado and boasts a population of 2,700, give or take 100. There’s one traffic light that has its own Facebook page. Check it out to get a fast feel for the gorgeous terrain here in the land of Collegiate Peaks.

The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area stretches between Buena Vista and Aspen to the north. It’s one of seven officially designated wilderness areas within the San Isabel National Forest. Here you’ll find some of the highest mountains in the Rockies named after Ivy League schools. It’s a mountain climber’s smorgasbord, with eight of Colorado’s 54 fourteeners.

Campers have nearly limitless choices in Chaffee County. A wide array of Buena Vista campgrounds make great choices for kayakers, rafters, and anglers looking to go tent camping or RV camping. Look out for campsites on the river, some with full hookups and full-service cabins.

Nearly 80% of Chaffee County lands are public lands. Check out one of the dozen campground offerings in the Salida Ranger District Recreation Area. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area offers three, and Twin Lakes Recreation Area has five.

Regardless of where you lay your head, be sure to soak your bones in the hot springs. Buena Vista’s bubbling geothermal offerings are 100% natural and odorless. Cottonwood Hot Springs and Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort are less than 20 minutes from downtown Buena Vista. It’s the perfect end to your perfect outdoor adventure.

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