Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
00 review307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, Colorado, 81201, United States
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
$8.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Campsites range in price from $8 to $14, depending on the specific site, amenities, and location.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campgrounds include handicapped-accessible facilities, as noted in the amenities list.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes range from 15 to 83 feet in maximum equipment length, depending on the specific site.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information about campsite privacy is provided in the source materials.
Total Campsites0 campsites
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 are 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.
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.
Hiking
The 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.'Fishing
AHRA 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.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available, though details regarding trail difficulty or terrain are not specified.Boating
Boating 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 viewing
The area offers ample wildlife-watching opportunities, including the possibility of spotting big-horn sheep as mentioned in user reviews.Winter Activities
The source does not provide information about specific winter activities.Water Sports
In addition to rafting and kayaking, other non-motorized water sports like canoeing and paddleboarding are likely possible, though not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Gathering firewood is prohibited in the campground.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include scorpions and local wildlife as encountered by campers. Bugs are mentioned as a notable discomfort in user reviews.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 16.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities or pickup schedules is provided.
Proximity to water featuresAll campgrounds are located along the Arkansas River, providing direct access to water-based activities such as rafting and fishing.
Common complaints"The sheer amount of bugs that bite was astounding," according to a camper. Another user encountered wildlife and scorpions during their stay.
Campground Map
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.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 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
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...
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Common Concerns
Issues with strong wind ('tents blew away...'), biting insects ('astounding...one big ball of itch'), and encounters with wildlife (such as scorpions).
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.
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.
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."
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews for individual campsites are available, although the 'Five Points’ campground is noted for its beauty.
Accessibility Features
Handicapped-accessible facilities are noted in the amenities list, though no user reviews specifically address accessibility experiences.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at all campsites, but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025