Pet-friendly campground options surround Buena Vista, where the Arkansas River valley sits at 7,965 feet elevation between the Collegiate Peaks and Mosquito Range. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during the day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles to access the best sites.
What to do
Hiking near ghost towns: Near Cascade Campground, you can access the historic mining town of St. Elmo. "Ghost town at the top of the valley. Hot springs at the bottom. Fishing all along," notes Ronny D., who appreciated the variety of activities within a short drive.
Mountain biking from camp: BV Overlook offers direct trail access from your campsite. "We visited Buena Vista mainly to mountain bike and we loved that you can ride right from the campsite onto the trails," according to Becky M., who found it perfect for digital nomads wanting to combine work and recreation.
Colorado Trail access: The area provides multiple entry points to this famous thru-hiking route. "We went for a hike, there were multiple hiking trails including access to the Colorado Trail," shares marine J. about Raspberry Gulch, noting they also found mountain biking opportunities on the surrounding forest roads.
What campers like
Riverside camping experience: Ruby Mountain Campground offers prime riverfront locations. "The sites are the best we have seen. They have boulders outlining each of the sites with gravel underneath for tents," writes Steve & Ashley G., who appreciated the well-designed spaces along the Arkansas River.
Hot springs proximity: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to thermal soaking opportunities. "Camping and hot springs....ahhhhh," says Ronda C. about Chalk Creek Campground, highlighting its location close to Mt. Princeton Hot Springs as a major advantage.
Dark sky stargazing: The area's minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "We were also able to see the Milky Way while sitting around the fire," reports Katrina L. about Hecla Junction Campground, which combines river access with outstanding astronomical viewing.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Prepare for significant temperature changes regardless of season. "Tent camped in August and woke up one morning at 38 degrees," warns Curtis K. about his summer stay at BV Overlook, demonstrating how cold nights can be even during warmer months.
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful navigation. "Be careful on your drive in because there's huge rats in the road to start with. It gets a little better the further back you go," advises Mandi R. about Salida North BLM dispersed camping area.
Reservation requirements: Turtle Rock Campground now requires advance planning. "Turtle Rock used to be free dispersed camping but not anymore. See Recreation.gov for sites and reservations," shares Brian B., highlighting a recent policy change affecting this popular area.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting local animals around camp. "We had cows grazing around our campsite in the morning (it was adorable)," shares Daniel P. about Browns Creek, where larger wildlife like bighorn sheep can also be spotted.
Camp entertainment: Some campgrounds offer additional activities. "Fun indoor game room with air hockey, ping pong, darts, and a pool table," mentions canyongirl100 about BV Overlook, which also hosts occasional ice cream socials for campers.
Dog-friendly hiking trails: Many trails welcome four-legged family members. "Plenty of places to hike and explore and close to BV as well," notes Allen B. about Turtle Rock Campground, which offers numerous options for exercising pets on surrounding trails.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully for the best experience. "The Lower Level is our favorite with loads more trees," advises Norm M. about Chalk Creek Campground, noting the significant difference between the two camping areas.
Electrical needs: Several campgrounds accommodate medical devices. "I prefer more primitive campgrounds but we needed electricity for a friend's CPAP," explains Matthew G., who found Chalk Creek Campground met their requirements while maintaining a pleasant atmosphere.
Big rig accessibility: Some forest roads accommodate larger vehicles despite appearances. "I was able to get my 25ft rig pretty far up the mountain on road 274A. There was 30-40ft class A in the spot closest to me," reports Brian E. about Browns Creek, proving dog-friendly campgrounds near Buena Vista can accommodate various RV sizes.
