Hillside, Colorado sits at an elevation of approximately 8,000 feet in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley. The area experiences cool mountain nights even during summer months, with temperatures often dropping into the 40s after sunset. Campers in this region can access both riverside camping and mountain settings, with the Arkansas River providing a natural corridor through the Sangre de Cristo mountain range.
What to do
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for anglers. At Bighorn Park, you can fish right from the campground property. "We spotted big horn sheep on the cliff behind us! The park also had a live singer entertain one night!" notes reviewer Melody M. Chad H. mentions "a spot by the river for fishing and or sitting. A bench to have a cup of coffee and watch the river."
River rafting: The Arkansas River offers Class II-IV rapids depending on the season and section. "Looks like some people were river rafting up from here so maybe you can arrange that from the camp," shares Shari D. from Bighorn Park. Commercial rafting companies operate from April through September, with peak flows in May and June.
Mountain biking: The Methodist Trail system near Salida RV Resort offers access to singletrack trails. "Perfect spot for access to Methodist Trail system, down town and easy bike ride away," reports pamela R. The resort provides a central location for exploring both the mountain trails and Salida's amenities.
What campers like
River sounds: Many campers highlight the peaceful sound of water as a key feature. "Slept with the back open and fell asleep to the river sounds. Just heavenly!" writes Shari D. at Bighorn Park. At Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground, "You can hear the river running almost everywhere in the park," according to Matt S.
Mountain wildlife: The area supports diverse mountain wildlife viewable from many campgrounds. Allen B. reports, "We even saw a moose. The stars are amazing here" at Monarch Spur RV Park. At Bighorn Park, campers regularly see "big horn sheep on the cliff behind us" as mentioned by Melody M.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "The bathhouse was the nicest I've ever seen at a campground," Tammy Z. writes about Royal Gorge RV Resort & Cabins. Prof K. notes at Monarch Spur that "Restrooms/showers/laundry very clean & well-kept. Good showers, but the timer-controlled lights may leave you in darkness while you're in there."
What you should know
Altitude effects: At over 8,000 feet elevation, temperature fluctuations are significant. "High altitude means cool to cold nights," explains Eddie B. at Monarch Spur. Pack layers even in summer months as overnight lows can drop below 40°F.
Road noise: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "It is right on Hwy 50 which means easy access, but also lots of road noise," reports Melody M. at Bighorn Park. Allen B. notes at Monarch Spur, "It's near a highway but we never found the road noise a problem. Didn't even notice except an occasional truck using Jake brakes. It all but stopped at night."
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks near Hillside operate on limited schedules. "We stayed here while thru hiking the colorado trail, what a wonderful time! Salida is a quick drive away and the trail is only a mile up the road," writes Katie H. about Monarch Spur, which operates from May 1 to November 1.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Sand Dunes Recreation offers family-friendly activities including "a large outdoor pool and a couple of smaller pools," according to Andrew B. He adds, "It's $15 to soak or half price if you camp there." The resort includes amenities specifically designed for children.
Kid-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Allen B. reports about Monarch Spur: "It has everything. Full hookups to tent camping... They have a nice camp store, WiFi that works, golf cart rental, a playground, kids games, a community area." He adds, "The kids didn't want to go anywhere they were happy just to hang out here at the campground."
Budget options: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates for families. "We get a weekend away for about 80 bucks for two nights and swimming, and we can bring our kids and dog....it's a winner!" shares Elizabeth H. about Sand Dunes Recreation, adding "They have a shop that sells items needed like bathing suits and sunscreen and treats."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV sites in the region typically have gravel pads. At Haggards RV Campground, "The sites were large and plenty of room for my slideout and not too close to next site," according to Tj H., who adds, "stayed there in June for 4 days in a 34ft travel trailer in a pull thru long enough not to have to unhook."
Water quality: Water systems vary between parks. Joel G. notes about Haggards RV Campground: "Water system needs work; well water has rust and sediment, be prepared!" This is common in mountain areas where water comes from wells or springs.
Winter accessibility: Only a few rv parks near Hillside, Colorado remain open year-round. "Data T-mobile 5G: lacking, ATT: not so hot, Verizon: great, Visible: pretty good, Cricket: ok for voice," Kevin H. reports about connectivity at Haggards, which offers year-round operation for those needing winter camping options.
