Established Camping
Railroad Bridge Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Colorado weather can be unpredictable: be prepared for a variety of weather conditions including extreme hot and cold temperatures, wind, rain, and snow (even in the summer). CPW does not grant exceptions to the refund policy for weather conditions.
Railroad Bridge Campground, near Buena Vista, Colorado, is a fantastic spot for those who want to soak in stunning views and enjoy the sounds of the Arkansas River. With sites that are right by the water, you can expect a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
This campground is known for its spacious drive-through sites, making it RV-friendly, and it’s a great place for tent camping too. Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery, especially the views of the Collegiate Peaks, and many have enjoyed fishing right from their campsite. One camper noted, “We lucked out and our site... had spectacular views,” so you’re likely to find a spot that suits your needs.
If you’re into water sports, you’ll appreciate the easy access to the river for kayaking and rafting. The area also offers trails for hiking and rock climbing, so there’s no shortage of outdoor activities. Just remember, there’s no drinking water or electric hookups here, so come prepared.
While some campers mentioned the lack of shade and the occasional boat traffic, the overall vibe is relaxed and friendly. With a camp host on-site and well-maintained facilities, you can focus on enjoying your time in this beautiful setting. Whether you’re stargazing at night or listening to the river flow, Railroad Bridge Campground is a solid choice for your next getaway.
Description
Colorado Parks & Wildlife
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area - Railroad Bridge (Recreation and Public Purposes Site)
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. 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.
AHRA operates eight campgrounds along the Arkansas River, all of which have boat ramps for raft and kayak access.
Please visit the Arkansas Headwaters website for current conditions and more information: https://ahra.mobi/park
By making a reservation with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, you are agreeing to read and abide by all rules stated in this purchase flow and on the confirmation letter.
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There is no water, electricity, or firewood available in the campgrounds.
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The gathering of firewood in the campground is NOT permitted.
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Facilities at AHRA Campgrounds include vault toilets, tent pads, grills, and picnic tables.
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Motor craft are NOT permitted on the river.
Please use www.cpwshop.com or call (800) 244-5613 to make, cancel, or change reservations or make any license, pass, or retail purchases. ReserveAmerica.com has limited functionality for CPW customers.
Per CPW regulation, no individual may camp or park a motor vehicle, trailer or camper on a state park for more than fourteen (14) days in any twenty-eight (28) day period on a single park. For the purposes of this regulation, an individual is defined as any person who has occupied a site, whether or not they are formally listed on the reservation as the reserving party or primary occupant.
Any reservations made with one or more days outside of the 6-month reservation window will be frozen to changes for 14 days from the date the reservation was made.
Location
Railroad Bridge Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is located in Colorado
Directions
Unlike most other Colorado State Parks, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) does not have one set of driving directions to get to the park. This is because the AHRA is actually a linear recreation area that follows the Arkansas River for 152 miles from the high mountains near Leadville, Colorado, to Lake Pueblo, on the edge of Colorado plains. There are a number of highways and roads entering the valley. Along the way, the AHRA has eight basic campgrounds, numerous picnic areas, fishing and boating access points and trail access. PLEASE NOTE: You _do not_ need to check in at the visitor center prior to your arrival if you are camping. You may go directly to the campground. Please see Campground Directions printed at the bottom of your confirmation letter.
Address
307 W Sackett Ave
Salida, CO 81201
Coordinates
38.92271037022809 N
106.16970001345229 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TFair
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 56 min from Colorado Springs
- 2 hrs 10 min from Pueblo
- 2 hrs 14 min from Denver
- 2 hrs 24 min from Boulder
