Established Camping
Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
About
State Park
Welcome to Hecla Junction Campground, part of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area near Salida, CO. This place is a haven for those who love the great outdoors, especially if you're into whitewater rafting or fishing. The Arkansas River runs right alongside the campground, offering fantastic river access. You can practically step out of your tent and cast a line or launch a kayak.
The campground itself is pretty straightforward—no frills, just nature. There are no electric hookups or potable water, so you'll need to bring your own supplies. But hey, that's part of the charm, right? Vault toilets are available, and each site comes with a picnic table and a fire pit. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as there's no trash service.
The sites are spacious and well-maintained, with some offering stunning river views. If you're in an RV, be prepared for some uneven ground; extra leveling blocks might come in handy. The campground is also big rig friendly, so no worries if you're rolling in with a larger setup.
One thing to note: this place can get busy, especially in the summer with all the rafting traffic. But even with the hustle and bustle, the natural beauty and the sound of the river make it worth it. Plus, there's a nice hike downstream to Seidel's Suckhole, which is both scenic and relatively easy.
Reservations are a must, especially during peak season from April to October. So lock down your spot and get ready to enjoy some quality time by the river. Whether you're here for the fishing, the rafting, or just to soak in the scenery, Hecla Junction won't disappoint.
Location
Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is located in Colorado
Directions
From Salida, go 8 mi N on State Hwy 291, then 1 mi N on US 285, then 2.4 mi E on County Road 194. Follow signs. This is a narrow, steep (12% grade) dirt road.
Address
307 W Sackett Ave
Salida, CO 81201
Coordinates
38.65270429 N
106.051717 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TPoor
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly