Places to Camp near Salida, CO
Camping near Salida, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Salida, Colorado, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and towering peaks, it's no wonder that camping near Salida is a popular choice for adventurers. Whether you're looking for a serene spot by a lake, a family-friendly campground, or a rugged backcountry experience, Salida has something for everyone.
From established campgrounds with amenities to dispersed sites offering solitude, the area around Salida provides a variety of camping options. In this guide, we'll explore what makes camping near Salida special, what activities you can enjoy, and tips from fellow campers to make your trip memorable.
What to do
Camping near Salida offers a plethora of activities for nature lovers. From hiking and fishing to kayaking and mountain biking, there's no shortage of outdoor fun.
One of the top spots for water activities is Cottonwood Lake Campground. "Love the lake with plenty of fishing and kayaking/boating," says Nick D. in his review. For those interested in whitewater rafting, Hecla Junction Campground is a prime location. Kristyn E. mentions in her review, "It's a sweet place to camp right on the Arkansas River, just a bit north of Salida, CO, and is known for its river access for whitewater enthusiasts and anglers alike."
Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore. The Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area offers access to the Colorado Trail and other scenic routes. "We explored the road further up later on bicycles, all the way to the bridge creek crossing," shares Wild Berries B. in their review.
What campers like
Campers appreciate the natural beauty and variety of camping options near Salida. Many campgrounds offer stunning views, well-maintained facilities, and easy access to outdoor activities.
Ruby Mountain Campground is praised for its scenic location. "Really gorgeous camping spot with easy access to tons of different outdoor activities," says Kyle in his review. Similarly, Cascade Campground is noted for its peaceful setting. "Loved our first time experience here! Probably one of the best campgrounds we've stayed at," shares Karen L. in her review.
Campers also appreciate the amenities provided at some campgrounds. BV Overlook offers conveniences like restrooms and a coffee shop. "Very nice restrooms and showers. Also nice that they have a coffee shop on site (and made a good cappuccino!)," says Brian & Jackie S. in their review.
What you should know
While camping near Salida is generally a positive experience, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth trip.
Some campgrounds can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. Nick D. notes in his review that Cottonwood Lake Campground is "VERY popular so during the day especially it is very busy." Additionally, some campgrounds may have limited amenities. Rowan B. mentions in their review that Chalk Creek Campground had "no bathrooms in the lower area by the river. Only portolets."
It's also important to be prepared for the weather. Salida's elevation means it can get quite cold at night, even in the summer. Roberta W. shares in her review that their cabin at BV Overlook was "40 degrees in the cabin so we didn’t sleep."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with kids near Salida can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities and activities that can keep children entertained.
Hecla Junction Campground is a great choice for families. Rory L. mentions in their review, "I was like 40 ft from the river. I could hear it the whole time which was cool!" The proximity to the river can be exciting for kids who enjoy water activities.
Chalk Creek Campground also offers a family-friendly environment. Michael G. notes in his review, "Great access for fishing and rafting on Arkansas river and chalk creek. Sites are on chalk creek." The easy access to water activities can be a hit with children.
For a more rustic experience, Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area provides plenty of space for kids to explore. Rebecca B. shares in her review, "Beautiful view, relatively quiet despite being a busy area. Many trees for privacy. Lots of stars in the night sky."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Salida that cater to their needs, offering amenities like electric hookups and spacious sites.
Chalk Creek Campground is a popular choice for RVers. Jennifer N. shares in her review, "We really loved this park - we stayed in the lower part near the creek. The park is well taken care of and the staff, OMG, they were excellent!!"
For those looking for a more dispersed experience, Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site offers plenty of space and beautiful views. Marine J. mentions in their review, "We arrived around 5 pm on a Wednesday and most of the spots were taken but we were able to find one to fit our 40 feet toy hauler."
Another great option for RVers is Salida North BLM. Anne G. shares in her review, "This is a convenient spot right off US 285 between BV and Salida. We arrived just after 10 am on the Friday of July fourth weekend and got what we think was the best spot for our truck and 20’ travel trailer."
Camping near Salida, Colorado, offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside spots to rugged backcountry sites. With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, you're sure to have a memorable trip in this beautiful part of the Rockies.
