Arkansas river headwaters recreation site camping. And, like all parks in the AHRA (Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area), you’ll be hard pressed to find urban amenities. Consisting of six campgrounds and numerous put-in and take-out spots with restrooms, boat ramps, and huge parking areas, the AHRA provides incredible recreation opportunities from Leadville up at 11,000 feet down to Pueblo on the edge of the great plains. Overview The Arkansas River is one of the most popular river-rafting spots in the United States. Max equipment length is 35 feet. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring Vallie Bridge Campground – Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Nestled within the stunning Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Colorado, Vallie Bridge Campground provides an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Area (AHRA) is one of those 'Big Boys' - maybe even "Pappy. From the peaks to the prairies, The campgrounds are located the Arkansas at Five Points, Vallie Bridge, Parks and the BLM in this River is a Rincon, Hecla Junction, Ruby management venture. The Administrative section also coordinates AHRA special events, such as the Annual Arkansas River Cleanup/Greenup, Junior Rangers, campground and environmental education programs, administers the AHRA Volunteer Program, and organizes a variety of meetings throughout the year. S. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is a 150-mile stretch of the Arkansas River in Colorado. The park is jointly administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Bureau of Land Management, and the United States Forest Service. Salida East, Point Barr, Rincon and Vallie Bridge all have developed campgrounds and popular dispersed camping areas include Red Wall, Woody's Claim, Rainbow Bridge and Badger Creek. Dispersed camping is also available along the Arkansas River. Find available dates and book online with ReserveAmerica. this partnership, the agencies influence, Most sites are located near the provide visitors with outstanding shaping river and some are accessible recreation Jul 7, 2025 · Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado - Basic Site 1107 , Loop Hecla Junction Five Points Campground – Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Located within the stunning Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) in Canon City, Colorado, the Five Points Campground is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area About Cañon City to Lake Pueblo Along the Arkansas River, the 33-mile Cañon City to Lake Pueblo section has 9 river access sites. View campground details for Site: 1101, Loop: Hecla Junction at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. Stretching for 152 miles along the Arkansas River, the area offers abundant and outstanding opportunities for fishing, rafting, kayaking, picnicking, hiking, camping, mountain biking, and sightseeing among deep canyons, broad valleys and towering mountain peaks. However, the river’s high CFS tends to drop at the end of July, making August a promising month as well. Cross the river and continue to the end of the pavement, then turn right onto County Road 300. See 23 traveler reviews, 61 photos and 2 blog posts May 17, 2019 · Five Points Campground in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Canon City Colorado. Photo: Park Facebook page Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a Colorado State Park located in Salida, and is approximately 25 miles south of the city of Buena Vista. Whether you want to explore a ghost town, run a rapid, hook a trout, watch a bighorn sheep or stare into the depths of the Royal Gorge, chances for adventure are all around you. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area campsites sold out? Campnab can help you get a site at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area if someone cancels their camping reservation. Hecla Junction Campground - Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Salida is rated 9. Aug 12, 2025 · View campground details for Site: 1404, Loop: Railroad Bridge at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. There are many campgrounds in the area, but there are lots of dispersed camping and boondocking to be found as well. The terrain includes riverbanks and rocky areas, with temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Everything you need to know about camping in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, including when to go and how to book the best campgrounds and campsites. Part of the Arkansas Headwaters system of Colorado Parks & Wildlife sites, the Hecla Junction recreation site in Browns Canyon is a favorite for fly anglers, river runners, rafting companies, and day hikers. Salida East Campground is part of Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Colorado (2 hrs 11 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 6,983 feet. All sites are currently reservable. The campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, complete with picnic tables and fire rings, making it a cozy place to gather after a day of adventure. Point Barr Campground is part of Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Colorado (2 hrs 21 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 6,787 feet. View a map of this area and more on Natural Atlas. Amenities include picnic tables Sep 1, 2024 · The Ruby Mountain Recreation Site signage is easy to spot along the paved road and there are about a half dozen riverside rafting businesses and fishing accesses to be found on the way there. The Arkansas River is the most commercially rafted river in the United States and is noted for its world-class fishery, which provides an excellent opportunity for anglers to test their skills at catching brown and rainbow trout. The campground is known for its well-maintained sites, with many visitors praising the beautiful surroundings and easy access to outdoor activities. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 23 and 71 feet. Provide your preferred CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BY Salida East Campground, near Salida, Colorado, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with easy access to the Arkansas River. us for more information. The campground is on the south side of the highway and the day-use area is on the north/river side. Picnicking is permitted everywhere in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area except in designated campsites. Rincon Campground is located along the Arkansas River in Colorado, within the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area extends about 148 miles from Leadville to the Pueblo Reservoir through the towns of Buena Vista, Salida, Caсon City, and Florence. There are a total of 8 campsites. by Bob Robinson Introduction Nestled in the heart of Colorado, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a perfect spot for RV camping. Please plan your route to approach the campground from the West. Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Jun 24, 2025 · The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area hugs the Arkansas River, stretching around 148 miles from Leadville to the Pueblo Reservoir, featuring over 25 recreation sites near the Colorado towns of Buena Vista, Cañon City, Florence, and Salida. 1 of 10 at RV LIFE Campground Reviews. Jan 27, 2015 · Rincon Campground in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Salida Colorado. Nearby, visitors can explore the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness and enjoy activities like hiking and fishing. Arkansas Headwaters State Park includes eight campgrounds and numerous recreation sites along the river within the AHRA that also provide a variety of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding or jumping of points that provide access to hundreds of thousands of acres of motorized OHV trails. Along the way The 19-acre Salida East site features a boat ramp, vault toilets and change facility as well as 29 basic campsites, 4 walk-in sites and 1 yurt located on the south banks of the Arkansas River about three miles east of Salida along U. Save 10% on Good Sam Campgrounds & RV Parks Fishing the Arkansas River is best from September to April when the flow is low. Each site includes a In addition to it's whitewater rafting, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area offers camping, fishing, picnicking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and OHV trails. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Railroad Bridge Campground in Buena Vista, Colorado is a scenic campground located along the Arkansas River. co. AHRA also offers a world-class trout fishery and sightseeing within the Upper Arkansas River Valley as well as abundant opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking, wildlife watching, horseback riding, mountain biking and OHV travel. Jul 6, 2024 · The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a state park with several different day-use areas and some campgrounds along the course of the Arkansas River in the Rockies. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Five Points Campground in Canon City, Colorado is a great place to camp and explore the Arkansas River. For your safety, do not attempt to access Point Barr Campground from the East on County Road 45. View campground details for Site: 1502, Loop: Vallie Bridge at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. There are eight campgrounds located along the river, providing easy access to fishing and water activities. There are 14 pull-through campsites and the rest are back-in sites on gravel. Apr 27, 2025 · For those looking to extend their stay, camping options range from developed campsites with facilities to primitive sites for a more rugged experience. Princeton RV Park Nov 5, 2018 · The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), located just outside of Salida, is a popular spot for kayaking and whitewater rafting. " When you think of Colorado and adventure, you have to think of whitewater rafting and fly fishing stocked streams. Salida East Campground is located approximately 1. See 6 traveler reviews, 52 photos and blog posts Located near central Colorado, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is a popular destination for naturalists, whitewater rafters, kayakers, and anglers. Find easy reservations at sold-out campgrounds and explore breathtaking national parks. Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area About Buena Vista to Salida Along the Arkansas River, the 30-mile Leadville to Buena Vista to Salida section has 8 river access sites. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is one of the nation’s most popular locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking and home to the most commercially rafted river in the United States, the Arkansas River! Tumbling 4,650’ in 152 miles, boaters can find anything from roaring Class IV and V rapids, to milder Class II and III sections, which are ideal for beginner and family trips Breathtaking! AHRA offers world-class whitewater boating, fishing, sightseeing, bicycling and hiking along 152 miles of the Arkansas River. This area is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and offers numerous outdoor activities like rafting, fishing, and hiking. Point Barr Campground Overview Point Barr is a dispersed camping area located in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) in Colorado, not Arkansas. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 60 feet. See 5 traveler reviews, 3 photos and blog posts Aug 28, 2025 · Site All RV sites also have tent pads for tent camping. The campground is open all year. The campground also provides a shaded spot for rafters to stop on their journey down the river. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Vallie Bridge Campground in Cotopaxi, Colorado is a great place to camp and explore the Arkansas River. Some whitewater enthusiasts launch their downriver journeys at Ruby Mountain, where Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) manages an Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) boat launch and campground. The campground is located in the San Isabel National Forest and offers a variety of activities for all ages. Nearby attractions include the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park and the San Isabel National Forest, providing opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. Hayden Meadows is in the northern part of the park and has a variety of accessible fishing and hiking trails, wetland boardwalks, and bridges surrounding the reservoir. Use caution if camping with children: this site is very close to the river! Thinking of camping at Vallie Bridge in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO? See campsite availability, read camper reviews, and discover more incredible campsites nearby. Vallie Bridge Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area: 2 Reviews, 15 Photos, $28 per night. Enjoy fishing, river sports, and camping at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area for a true Colorado experience. Charge your phones and pitch a tent in one of the area’s many campsites. Oct 31, 2018 · Salida East Campground in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Salida Colorado. Area Five Points Campground Directions Five Points Campground is located approximately 20 miles west of Canon City and is accessed from US Hwy 50 at mile marker 260. USE CAUTION IF CAMPING WITH CHILDREN, THIS SITE IS VERY CLOSE TO THE RIVER! Apr 6, 2024 · The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a linear recreation area that follows the Arkansas River for 152 miles from the high mountains near Leadville to Lake Pueblo. All RV sites also have tent pads for tent camping. The area is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is one of the nation’s most popular locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking and home to the most commercially rafted river in the United States, the Arkansas River! Tumbling 4,650’ in 152 miles, boaters can find anything from roaring Class IV and V rapids, to milder Class II and III sections, which are ideal for beginner and family trips The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is one of the nation’s most popular locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking and home to the most commercially rafted river in the United States, the Arkansas River! Tumbling 4,650’ in 152 miles, boaters can find anything from roaring Class IV and V rapids, to milder Class II and III sections, which are ideal for beginner and family trips Biking/Hiking: A lot of trails exist within the recreation area. View campsite map, availability, and reserve online with ReserveAmerica. With our extensive database of over 9,600+ campgrounds, we offer you the ability to secure camping spots even in the most popular locations like Yosemite, Yellowstone, or Niagara Falls State Park. Aug 11, 2025 · View campground details for Site: 1002, Loop: Five Points at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. With six campgrounds consisting of 102 sites, camping in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is plentiful. Hecla Junction is one of several access points along the river providing boat ramps and amenities for visitors. Wildlife abounds, and there's no shortage of adventure to be found - from Fast Track trails to Wet and Wild Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO (719)539-7289 Season Dates Current Status - Open year round. Arkansas Headwaters Rec. The campground has over 100 sites, including tent sites, RV sites, and group sites. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area - River Sections | Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area | Colorado Parks and Wildlife The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Hecla Junction Campground in Salida, Colorado is a great place to camp and explore the Arkansas River. The park offers boating, fishing, hiking, and biking with scenic views of The Arkansas River. — the Arkansas River. Rincon Campground consists of 8 campsites along the Arkansas River. Hecla Junction Campground - Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Salida, Colorado: 9 reviews, 8 photos, & 5 tips from fellow RVers. Colorado Parks and Wildlife and BLM provide the primary management for the intensive recreation use as well as the area’s many resources. Please enjoy your visit. state. Below, you will find a community-by-community tour of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, featuring both river access sites and campgrounds. With its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the flowing Arkansas River, this campground is a perfect getaway for both families and individual Vallie Bridge Campground Overview Location: Vallie Bridge Campground is part of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), which is located in central Colorado along the Arkansas River. cpwshop. Dispersed campers in these areas must provide their own portable toilet device that is designed to carry human waste, and they must have their own fire container if having a fire. This expansive area encompasses a 152-mile stretch of the Arkansas River, recognized as one of the most popular spots for whitewater rafting and kayaking in the Rincon Campground is part of Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Colorado (2 hrs 3 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 6,766 feet. There are two campgrounds located at Ruby Mountain and Hecla Junction, and boat-accessed disbursed camping is available in Browns Canyon National Monument. Location and Access Hecla Junction is part of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), which is situated along the Arkansas River in the state of Colorado, USA. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO (719)539-7289 Season Dates Current Status - Open year round. The Badger Creek crossing is currently washed out and unsafe for travel by passenger vehicle. The campground has a variety of sites, including tent sites, RV sites, and group sites. This campground is located on the banks of the Arkansas River and offers a variety of activities for all ages. What to Do at the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area The Upper Arkansas River Valley is a treasure trove of geology, history, wildlife, scenery and just plain good times. Tumbling 4,650 feet over 152 miles, the river features rapids ranging from Class II–V (beginner to expert). There are a total of 20 campsites. In fact, according to Colorado Parks & Wildlife, the Arkansas River is the “most commercially rafted river in the United States. Located about 8 miles east of Salida Colorado, Rincon Campground is in the Arkansas Head The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area provides sites with access to some of the best fishing along with picnic tables, grills, and views of the river and mountains. Tent, cabin & RV camp on private & AR State Parks, on local farms, vineyards & nature preserves. Dec 29, 2019 · Ruby Mountain Campground is situated off a dirt county road neighboring Browns Canyon National Monument and the Arkansas River. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is accessible along US 24/285 from Leadville to Salida Colorado, or along US 50 to Pueblo Colorado. Thinking of camping at Five Points in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO? See campsite availability, read camper reviews, and discover more incredible campsites nearby. Thinking of camping at Rincon in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO? See campsite availability, read camper reviews, and discover more incredible campsites nearby. Railroad Bridge Campground is part of Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Colorado (2 hrs 10 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 8,274 feet. There are no campgrounds along this section of the river. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is managed through a unique, cooperative partnership between Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Bureau of Land Management, and the US Forest Service. Below the towering peaks of the Saguache and Sangre de Cristo Mountains, we have 101 campsites at 6 of the best riverside campgrounds in the valley. View campground details for Site: 1307, Loop: Ruby Mountain at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. It starts in the historic town of Leadville and goes all the way down to Pueblo on the edge of the plains. IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED IF CAMPING WITH SMALL CHILDREN. This recreation area spans over 150 miles of river, providing ample opportunities for adventure and nature exploration. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Camping: Campendium has 123 reviews of 12 Campgrounds in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is a state park in Colorado, U. Please call 719-539-7289 or visit www. With its rich history, cultural significance, and unique natural features, this area offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) manages a campground at Hecla Junction as part of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA). With the right camping equipment and clothing for our chilly nights, you’ll find day time temperatures moderate along the river most of the year and perfect for an “off-season” getaway. Aug 29, 2025 · View campground details for Site: 1202, Loop: Rincon at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. AHRA visitors enjoy camping, hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching, mountain biking, rock climbing and even gold panning along the river’s shores, deep canyons, broad valleys and towering Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area About Vallie Bridge to Parkdale Along the Arkansas River, the 29-mile Vallie Bridge to Parkdale section has 20 river access sites. With its blend of exhilarating activities and serene natural beauty, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area promises a memorable escape for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. 8 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 38 and 60 feet. Mt. The AHRA encompasses a little over 6,000 acres, some parts of Browns Canyon National Monument, and the Arkansas River extending to 152 miles, including This is a requirement for each day that you plan to camp at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area stretches for 150 miles and is on one of the nation's most popular whitewater rivers. Stone Cabin Campground is a campground on Arkansas River and Clear Creek in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Rocky Mountains, CO. There are a number of highways and roads entering the valley, providing access to Gold Medal waters, world-class rafting, camping, picnicking, wildlife watching and more. Ruby Mountain Campground - Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area impresses RVers with its spacious, thoughtfully terraced sites and remarkable views of both river and mountains. Drive 2. Save 10% on Good Sam Campgrounds & RV Parks The campground is on the south side of the highway and the day-use area is on the north/river side. 5 miles east of Salida, Co on US Highway 50 at mile marker 224. Jul 24, 2017 · Railroad Bridge Campground in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Buena Vista Colorado. Find Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area camping, campsites, cabins, and other lodging options. Camping in AHRA campsites requires a reservation through the CPW website. The cities and towns along the river - Leadville, Buena Vista Along the river you'll also find numerous picnic areas with picnic tables, fire rings or grills and excellent views of the mountains and the river. Aug 3, 2025 · Site All RV sites also have tent pads for tent camping. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area camping reservations and campground information. Through powerful Mountain, and Railroad Bridge. This area is right in the middle of Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area. See 4 traveler reviews, 38 photos and blog posts Five Points Campground is part of Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Colorado (1 hr 31 min southwest of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 5,963 feet. Selected river access sites also have fully accessible restroom facilities, complete with accessible parking spots. Waterflow Summary The information above depicts the Flow Program Target and the flow of the Arkansas River as measured in cubic feet per second (cfs) at the Wellsville Gauge near Salida, CO. Camping: There are 6 campgrounds open year Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area About Salida to Vallie Bridge Along the Arkansas River, the 18-mile Salida to Vallie Bridge section has 7 river access sites. There are a total of 12 campsites. The campground offers a variety of amenities, including RV and tent sites, picnic tables, fire rings, and a playground. Campground maps and more info on regulations and parking passes can be found on the CPW website. parks. View campground details for Site: 1407, Loop: Railroad Bridge at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. View campground details for Site: 1010ha, Loop: Five Points at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. Visitors appreciate the tranquility, clean grounds, and direct access to outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, and nearby 4x4 trails. THIS SITE HAS A SHARP DROP OFF DOWN TO THE RIVER. Each site View campground details for Site: 1120, Loop: Hecla Junction at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. Ruby Mountain Campground is another river hugging outdoor venture, located within earshot of the roaring Arkansas rapids. The spectacular scenery is highlighted by the steep, narrow, rocky canyons that provide excellent opportunities to view Rocky Mountain bighorn The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is one of the nation’s most popular whitewater rafting and kayaking destinations, home to the most commercially rafted river in the U. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area/Ruby Mountain Campground, Buena Vista, Colorado. AHRA operates eight campgrounds along the Arkansas River, all of which have boat ramps for raft and kayak access. Let’s delve into what makes Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area a must-visit destination for RV renters. AHRA visitors also enjoy camping, hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching This campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, all set against a backdrop of stunning mountain views and the nearby Arkansas River. 4 miles to the Ruby Mountain Campground. Whitewater Boating Whitewater boating is the most popular Jan 21, 2022 · Fishing at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. See what RVers are saying about Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area/Five Points Campground in Canon City, CO. This page also tracks, in acre feet (af), the amount of water released as part of the summer component of the Voluntary Flow Program. There are no campgrounds along this section of the river, but dispersed camping is allowed on federal land. Reservations can be made online at www. Provides information on Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Ruby Mountain Campground, Buena Vista, Colorado including GPS coordinates, local directions, contact details, RV sites, tent sites, cabins, photos, reviews, rates, facilities and services, recreation, events, policies, nearby attractions and a video. A 152-mile stretch of the Arkansas River makes up the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA). Jul 31, 2023 · Unwilling to be broiled alive at home, campers seek the Arkansas River’s chilly headwaters July 31, 2023 at 4:00 a. Turn east (toward the river) on to Chaffee County Road 301 (identified by the large, yellow River Runners sign). All of the campgrounds are open 365 days a year, barring severe weather. Information on dispersed camping within the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), including rules, location suggestions, and Leave No Trace principles. The Arkansas River extends nearly 150 miles from Leadville, Colorado, to the Pueblo Reservoir and boasts an abundance of Class II-V rapids. The campground sits adjacent to Highway 50, offering beautiful riverside views with mountains in the background. This recreation area is known for its rich opportunities for rafting, fishing, hiking, and camping. See traveler reviews, 47 photos and blog posts Site All RV sites also have tent pads for tent camping. Learn more about camping near Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area and reserve your campsite today. AHRA isn’t only a whitewater destination, though. Located just outside of Salida, the campground offers easy access to the Arkansas River and its many recreational opportunities. Introduction Rincon is a popular camping and recreational spot located within the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) in Colorado, renowned for its outdoor activities, especially whitewater rafting and fishing. Jan 19, 2001 · Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Vision Statement The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area shall be managed to emphasize its natural resources, resource sustainability, and the standards for public land health, recognizing and respecting private property, while embracing numerous recreational, educational, and commercial activities. Jun 12, 2025 · Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area offers dispersed camping near the Arkansas River in Colorado. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 24 and 75 feet. Boating: There are plenty of places on the Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area to launch a myriad of boat types. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Arkansas Headwaters is one of the nation's premier recreation areas. The campground itself is situated near the town of Coaldale. com or by calling 1-800-244-5613. Overview Railroad Bridge is one of the many camping and outdoor recreation sites within Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), which is recognized for its incredible whitewater rafting, fishing, and camping along the Arkansas River in Colorado. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is recognized as one of the nation's most popular whitewater rafting and kayaking locations. Provides information on Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Railroad Bridge Campground, Buena Vista, Colorado including GPS coordinates, local directions, contact details, RV sites, tent sites, cabins, photos, reviews, rates, facilities and services, recreation, events, policies, nearby attractions and a video. The AHRA is recognized as one of the nation's most popular whitewater rafting and kayaking locations. Highway 50. PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED ACCESS The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area has fully accessible restroom facilities at each developed campground and each campground has at least one fully-accessible campsite. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area/Five Points Campground, Canon City, Colorado. Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area About Parkdale to Cañon City Along the Arkansas River, the 10-mile Parkdale to Cañon City section has 4 river access sites. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Ruby Mountain Campground in Nathrop, Colorado is a great place to camp and explore the Arkansas River. Check for ratings on facilities, restrooms, and appeal. The campgrounds are located at Vallie Bridge and Five Points, but dispersed camping is allowed at Five 1/2 Points, Texas Creek, Lazy J, Bootlegger, Maytag and Cottonwood. The terrain consists of riverbanks and surrounding hills, with temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 80°F in summer. Experience the beauty of Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Campsite with CampScanner. The campground is located on the banks of the Arkansas River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area About Leadville to Buena Vista Along the Arkansas River, the 32-mile Leadville to Buena Vista section has 24 river access sites. View campground details for Site: 1201, Loop: Rincon at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. One of the most popular stints of Arkansas is through Browns Canyon, a national monument and an awesome place to whitewater raft. There is a walkway under Highway 50 from the campground to the river. ” The park also offers camping, fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife watching and features event space, equestrian stables . A developed campground is located at Railroad Bridge and dispersed camping is allowed at select sites. "Amazing to be right on the river but camp sites ar Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO (719)539-7289 149 Campsite Results All Site Types (149) Things to Do The most popular land entrance to Browns Canyon National Monument is Ruby Mountain at the northwest corner of the monument. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY. The partners have acquired important river access for the public and Find maps, visitor center information, and directions to campgrounds at the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. Find & reserve the best river, stream, or creek campsites in Arkansas. m. Thinking of camping at Railroad Bridge in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO? See campsite availability, read camper reviews, and discover more incredible campsites nearby. Visitors do use the campground loop as a turnaround point for buses or vans that are dropping rafters off at different access points along the Arkansas River. Signage is easily seen from Highway 50. Information on camping at the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), including reservations, campgrounds, and facilities. There are both campgrounds and dispersed camping found near Salida, Poncha Spring, Monarch and the Arkansas River. Apr 20, 2025 · View campground details for Site: 1510, Loop: Vallie Bridge at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Colorado. May 17, 2021 · Dispersed Camping near Buena Vista, CO has become increasingly popular due to its close proximity to numerous mountain hiking trails and river rafting fun. Colorado Parks & Wildlife manages the AHRA and requires reservations for all camping. Arkansas River Headwaters offers dispersed camping near the Arkansas River in Colorado. For RV and tent campers Salida at 7,083′ makes a great base for exploring Chaffee County. A sidewalk under a bridge on US Hwy 50 Vallie Bridge Campground in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Coaldale Colorado. Read real reviews, ratings, and experiences before booking your stay. Each site Jun 7, 2024 · While Colorado manages 43 state parks, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is among the most unique in that it spans across a 152-mile corridor that follows the Arkansas River from the high mountains near Leadville to Lake Pueblo. The area also provides some of the best fishing in Colorado. Five Points Campground consists of 20 campsites in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area about 10 miles west of the turnoff for the Royal Gorge Bridge. Camping is another popular activity at the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. The Ruby Mountain Recreation Site is most famous for the riverside campground that goes by the same name. Thinking of camping at Hecla Junction in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, CO? See campsite availability, read camper reviews, and discover more incredible campsites nearby. There are a total of 25 campsites. The campground features a variety of sites, including tent sites, RV sites, and group sites. There are a total of 14 campsites including 6 tent-only sites. dntesh khda lqtu pirkd scnbm aqakkuc rztyfg ilcak irllro jjnm