Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

3 reviews

307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, Colorado, 81201, United States

Quick Facts

7,060 ft

Price

$8 - $14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Colorado Parks and Wildlife site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,060 ft

Price

$8 - $14/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Colorado Parks and Wildlife site

Official Website

Get Directions

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

$8.00 - $14.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsites range in price from $8 to $14, depending on the specific site, amenities, and location.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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7195397289

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 3 reviews

54 Google reviews

Most mentioned

locationhiking

Some mention

bugs

"User reviews provide mixed experiences ranging from admiration for the campground's stunning natural beauty to challenges with weather and wildlife. The campground attracts outdoor enthusiasts who value its scenic location and extensive outdoor activities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, Colorado, 81201, United States

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, Colorado, 81201, United States

Driving directionsArkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a linear recreation area spanning 152 miles along the Arkansas River from Leadville, Colorado, to Lake Pueblo. There are several highway entry points into the valley, and campers can proceed directly to their reserved campground without checking in at the visitor center. Directions to specific campgrounds are available on the confirmation letter or at https://ahra.mobi/camping.

Road access varies widely depending on the specific campground. The recreation area is accessible via several highways, with campgrounds positioned along the Arkansas River. Roads may include paved and unpaved segments.

Best Time to Camp at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Four distinct seasons paint the Arkansas Valley in ever-changing hues. Spring arrives with snowmelt that transforms the river into a churning playground for whitewater enthusiasts. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for camping under star-filled skies, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with dramatic flair. Autumn transforms the riverside cottonwoods into golden corridors, while winter blankets the higher elevations in snow, creating a serene landscape for those seeking solitude. Throughout the year, temperatures can swing from crisp, frosty mornings to warm afternoons, so layered clothing is your best companion.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer brings warm weather and many river-based activities and day recreation.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Four distinct seasons noted; fall likely scenic but specifics are limited.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 16% in CO

Snowmelt turns the river into churning whitewater; spring is prime for rafting.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Winters described as frigid and fewer activities are highlighted for the season.

Planning Tips

About Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Stretching along 152 miles of the legendary Arkansas River, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area beckons adventurers to experience Colorado's most dynamic waterway. From heart-pounding whitewater rapids that challenge expert rafters to gentle stretches perfect for family float trips, this linear wonderland offers eight distinct campgrounds as basepoints for unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you're casting for trophy trout, spotting bighorn sheep on riverside cliffs, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of the Arkansas Valley, each campground serves as your gateway to adventure.

The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area's eight campgrounds cater to outdoor enthusiasts with basic and primitive camping options. The sites are suitable for tents, RVs, and groups, with limitations on available amenities.

Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint the Arkansas Valley in ever-changing hues. Spring arrives with snowmelt that transforms the river into a churning playground for whitewater enthusiasts. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for camping under star-filled skies, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with dramatic flair. Autumn transforms the riverside cottonwoods into golden corridors, while winter blankets the higher elevations in snow, creating a serene landscape for those seeking solitude. Throughout the year, temperatures can swing from crisp, frosty mornings to warm afternoons, so layered clothing is your best companion.

ElevationFollowing the Arkansas River's dramatic descent through Colorado's varied terrain, campgrounds range from high mountain settings to lower valley locations. This remarkable elevation gradient creates distinct microclimates and ecosystems, offering campers the unique opportunity to experience Colorado's diverse landscapes within a single recreation area.

Natural Features and SceneryThe Arkansas River has carved a spectacular 152-mile corridor through some of Colorado's most breathtaking terrain. From its headwaters high in the Rockies, the river tumbles through narrow granite gorges where Class V rapids challenge the boldest paddlers, then mellows into peaceful stretches where families can float beneath towering canyon walls. World-class trout waters wind through meadows flanked by 14,000-foot peaks, while lower sections flow past sandstone formations and sprawling ranchlands. Eagles soar overhead, deer graze in riverside meadows, and the ever-changing river provides a constant soundtrack to your camping experience.

Geological RegionBorn in the shadows of Colorado's highest peaks, the Arkansas River has sculpted an extraordinary landscape over millennia. Plunging 4,650 feet through the Upper Arkansas River Valley, this geological masterpiece showcases nature's artistry through dramatic elevation changes and diverse rock formations. The river corridor reveals Colorado's geological story - from ancient granite canyons to volcanic remnants, creating a living textbook of Earth's history. This remarkable descent through mountains, valleys, and eventually plains creates distinct ecosystems and recreational opportunities that change with every river mile.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 days within a 28-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

6guests per site.

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly mentioned in the sources.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.cpwshop.com or by calling (800) 244-5613.

Cancellation PolicyReservations must be made or changed through Colorado Parks and Wildlife platforms. Reservations that include days outside the six-month reservation window will be locked for changes for 14 days.

AccessibilityThe campgrounds include handicapped-accessible facilities, as noted in the amenities list.

Site SizeCampsite sizes range from 15 to 83 feet in maximum equipment length, depending on the specific site.

PrivacyNo specific information about campsite privacy is provided in the source materials.

Amenities available

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is renowned for its wide range of recreational activities, including world-class whitewater rafting, kayaking, and trout fishing. The area is also popular for hiking, boating, wildlife watching, horseback riding, mountain biking, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) travel.

HikingThe recreation area provides access to numerous hiking trails, though specific details about difficulty levels and trail lengths are not mentioned in the source materials. User reviews highlight the abundant opportunities for hiking with the potential to 'spend hours hiking around.'

FishingAHRA boasts a world-class trout fishery, making it a prime destination for anglers. User reviews specifically mention the intent to 'throw a line out and see what is biting,' reflecting the popularity of fishing activities.

BikingMountain biking opportunities are available, though details regarding trail difficulty or terrain are not specified.

BoatingBoating is one of the area's key attractions, with eight campgrounds offering boat ramps that provide access to the Arkansas River for rafting and kayaking. However, motorized crafts are not allowed on the river.

Wildlife viewingThe area offers ample wildlife-watching opportunities, including the possibility of spotting big-horn sheep as mentioned in user reviews.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include scorpions and local wildlife as encountered by campers. Bugs are mentioned as a notable discomfort in user reviews.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Reviews

0.0

3 reviews

Limited Reviews

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews provide mixed experiences ranging from admiration for the campground's stunning natural beauty to challenges with weather and wildlife. The campground attracts outdoor enthusiasts who value its scenic location and extensive outdoor activities.

Review Summaries

Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

"Absolutely stunning" location, abundant hiking opportunities, accessible picnic spots, and the chance to spot big-horn sheep. Activities like rafting and zip-lining tours in nearby areas are also...

Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues with strong wind ('tents blew away...'), biting insects ('astounding...one big ball of itch'), and encounters with wildlife (such as scorpions).

Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Prepare adequately for weather conditions, secure tents properly, and bring insect repellent. Be mindful of wildlife and exercise caution during outdoor activities.

Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No explicit mention of seasonal variations from user reviews. The weather data suggests frigid conditions in winter and more comfortable conditions in summer.

Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This campground is absolutely stunning and I would have loved to stay another day." "Try to spot the big horn sheep when the river isn't grasping your attention."

Based on 3 reviews