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Camping near Howard, CO

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    Camping options near Howard, Colorado include a mix of established campgrounds, dispersed sites, and cabin facilities stretching along the Arkansas River corridor. Sugarbush Campground directly in Howard provides tent and RV camping with full hookups, while nearby Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area offers multiple developed campgrounds like Rincon and Salida East with various accommodation types. Several properties feature cabin rentals, including Cutty's Resort near Coaldale, approximately 7 miles southwest of Howard. The region supports both primitive camping on public lands and amenity-rich options with showers, electric hookups, and sewer connections.

    Road conditions and access vary considerably throughout the region depending on location and elevation. Most established campgrounds like Sugarbush are accessible via Highway 50, while dispersed sites such as Hayden Creek Roadside Camp require navigating less-maintained forest roads. Many campgrounds in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area operate year-round but take reservations primarily from April through October. Facilities range from basic (vault toilets only) to comprehensive with showers and hookups. Highway noise can be a factor at several riverside locations, particularly at Rincon Campground. According to one visitor, "The road is right behind you so it's good for one night. Went swimming in the river and it was glorious."

    Campers consistently rate waterfront locations among their favorite aspects of camping in this area. Sites along the Arkansas River provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming while offering scenic mountain views. Several visitors mention the peaceful setting despite occasional highway noise, with one noting that "sites are close together but very nice and level, plus there isn't large gravel which is a lot easier on the tent." The Salida area serves as a convenient basecamp for outdoor recreation, with a visitor describing Sugarbush as a "great basecamp" with "so much to do in this area." Campgrounds farther from the highway tend to offer more solitude but may have fewer amenities. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer months.

    Best Campgrounds near Howard (306)

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      1. Cutty's Resort - Hayden Creek

      4.3(10)5mi from HowardRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Close to everything you need but you will feel away from it all."

      "Our family and another reserved two sites next to each other. The pools on site were perfect for the kids. On site mini golf was a blast. The views in the campground were awesome."

      from $60 - $300 / night

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      2. Sugarbush Campground

      4.8(8)2mi from HowardRVs, Tents

      "really friendly staff, clean facilities, and very close to Salida! Was a perfect weekend."

      "The creek that runs through the sites drown out any highway noise. Easy 5 minute run to fishing access. Very family friendly."

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      3. Salida East Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

      3.5(13)10mi from Howard34 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Next to highway and close to Salida. Site is next to the river and decent for an overnight stay as a stopover. Otherwise it's fairly basic. Pads are nice and even and well kept."

      "Right next to the river. You can hear the traffic from the highway unfortunately but its not terrible."

      from $28 - $90 / night

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      4. Hayden Creek Road

      4.1(8)6mi from Howard4 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Creek steps away from wooded private spot! Only issue is there were locals up all night till 1:30 am with flashlights beaming into site which kind of scared me."

      "Tent camped in the dispersed area because Hayden creek was full, near Rainbow trailhead, entire area to ourselves 98% of the time besides two groups of hikers over 2 nights almost 3 days."

      from $22 / night

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      5. Rincon Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

      3.4(8)5mi from Howard8 sitesRVs, Tents

      "This is a lovely, well maintained campground next to the Arkansas River. There is a boat launch and vault toilets (clean). There are no frills, but it is a peaceful setting."

      "Basic campground surrounded by beauty nice lake"

      from $28 / night

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      6. Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

      4.5(6)6mi from HowardRVs, Tents

      "Sites are really close to the creek, which made for great white noise and easy water access. Restroom was close by and kept clean. Road in is dirt but easy to navigate for most vehicles."

      "Great site that is right next to the creek for the kids to explore. Lots of flat spots for tents, but also a nice big flat spot for the van. The road is easy to navigate for 2wd vehicles."

      7. Salida RV Resort

      4.1(9)10mi from Howard5 sitesRVs

      "Great location, close to Salida and hiking & biking trails. "

      "The resort is modern with all new and clean amenities, the staff is responsive to emails and very friendly in person, and the location is convenient to Salida and the activities of the area.    "

      from $73 - $144 / night

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      8. Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

      4.6(26)20mi from Howard23 sitesRVs, Tents

      "The campground is north of Salida Colorado on the Arkansas River. This is the busy spot at the end of the commercial river rafting run."

      "Beautiful in its location, there were site improvements several years ago, which are nice and still hold true in 2023. (level tent pads, delineated sites, etc.)"

      from $28 / night

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      9. Pleasant Valley RV Park

      5.0(4)2mi from HowardRVs, Cabins

      "It's tucked away but close to the main road.  It feels peaceful and secluded.  It's close to Salida.  The river is steps away and we had a blast fishing steps from our campsite. "

      "New owners and a great staff had made this a special place Had a beautiful river site Only campground on the other side of the river away from the HWY Enjoyed watching folks fly fish and the shade was"

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      10. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

      4.5(19)18mi from Howard

      "If you ever been to any of the BLM camping locations around Salida, Mt. Shavano is not anything different."

      "It was easy to find and close to the highway. The road was pretty good but got a bit bumpy as we got closer but still not a problem with our trailer."

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    Recent Camping Photos near Howard, CO

    583 Photos of 306 Howard Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

    Recent Reviews near Howard, CO

    1660 Reviews of 306 Howard Campgrounds

    • Casey D.
      Sep. 19, 2026

      Salida RV Resort

      Do NOT Recommend

      Would give no stars if I could! We had booked a stay in advance for Labor Day weekend and as the time got closer, we needed to adjust our dates. I, with my husband listening in the background, called to see if they could shift our dates by 1 day. the lady on the phone told me that would be no problem and that it was taken care of. Fast forward a week, we arrive and everything seems fine until we get a text message on our second to last day that asked why we hadn't left yet. We were about to head out for the day, but walked over to the office to talk to them first. The lady at the front desk had an attitude from the moment we walked in the door and basically said it was our fault that they didn't change the reservations correctly and we needed to leave immediately. She was very rude and blamed it on us. Mind you, it's an extremely busy holiday weekend where everything is already booked and we were about to leave as we had plans for the day. I told her we may not be out in the time frame she gave us because we now had to figure out where to go, clean/pack up the camper, etc. She threated to have us towed instead of trying to be helpful. This was on top of this same employee being very rude when we first arrived about us having a package schedule to be delivered there(that we had ordered many days before). She told us it was not allowed since we weren't staying for long enough and they would send the package back once the delivery folks tried to deliver it. Once I explained it was food for my senior dog, she said fine they would allow it once. Insane policy! Lastly, we tried to sleep with our windows open at night to enjoy the cool nights, however, the smell of the sewage plant next door was overwhelming and smelled awful! We knew from the moment we arrived and were met with rudeness about us having a package delivered that we would never be back, but after how the stay ended, this place needs to learn about hospitality and customer service instead of blaming their guests for their mistakes! We ended up at the RV park next door and it was wonderful and the people were so welcoming and friendly!

    • GThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 19, 2026

      Phantom Canyon

      Almost perfect

      I love canyon camping and this was a guddin. Would be a 5 but for trash and traffic. Found a nice little creekside pull through between the tunnels that scratched the itch.

    • LThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 18, 2026

      Rocking M Ranch Campground (RV Park)

      Beautiful, calm, and well kept

      The people who run this RV camp are so friendly and pleasant. We took a week-long road trip, and it was our favorite place we stayed. They are pet friendly, there is a small walking trail around the campgrounds, and a small dog park where dogs can be off leash. The place is surrounded by wooded area on the backside. We have Verizon phone carrier and had great service. We were told ATT has a dead spot here though.

    • Gerard E.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 18, 2026

      Chalk Lake Campground

      9-7-2026

      Site 10

      Chalk Creek Campground, 9-7-26, Arrived around 4:15 and found a site for one night. We talked to the host Linda who was very helpful and we received some great intel on local hikes. 

      Elevation was 8750’ Site 10 was large enough for our truck camper and there is a bear locker, metal table and fire pit. The table, tent and fire pit steps down about 8 steps and the site is right next to the creek. 

      Site 11 is totally visible from the site and would work great for larger groups. Fire was allowed but we opted not too as the winds were gusty through the area.$25 for the night, water pump and the clarity of the water was great. 

      Vault toilets throughout were clean. 

      Two trash dumpsters located at the end and middle. 

      Cellar via T-Mobile sucked, 1 bar lte roaming.

    • Kim D.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 17, 2026

      Ohaver Lake Campground

      Beautiful and Popular Locals Spot

      The park is small and beautiful on the stocked lake. The vault toilets are clean…for a vault toilet. Plenty of tp…padlocked in. lol. True primitive camping. Designated Tent sites are by the lake. Beautiful spots. Several RV sites on the lake but not for anything larger than 30’. There are RV sites at the entrance that can accommodate a slightly larger rig. I saw a Momemtum in site 2. But driving a rig much bigger up the sometimes steep, dirt, bumpy and rocky road could be difficult. There are a couple of hairpin turns. Definitely need a 4 wheel drive if you’re pulling a 20’ plus length trailer or RV. But that’s my opinion. But I could be wrong. I think all the RV sites are back-in. I’m at a site that have two sites end to end. Be forewarned, it looks like a pull-through site. My neighbor pulled up and brought his trailer closer to my site so his view of the lake wasn’t obstructed from the picnic table and fire pit. Good idea at the moment until I backed my rig up. I’m essentially blocking him in the way he parked. He should have accessed his rigs resting spot by pulling through my spot first. Now I have to load my rig up and move it so he can load his up and leave. I don’t mind. He’s been a great neighbor. This campground, like other forestry campgrounds, somehow have FCFS sites reserved. I don’t understand how it’s done, but it’s frustrating. It isn’t a true FCFS location until September 22nd. After that reservations can’t be made. Good luck beating the locals. You’re not supposed to bring a rig and just park it and leave, although it’s done frequently per the campground hosts. They couldn’t get a tow truck up here to remove it. So essentially it’s a rule that can’t be enforced. But it’s an unethical, shameful and selfish thing to do if you’re considering doing that. I’m staying 2 weeks because I can reach a town for anything I need in 20 minutes. Ponca Springs and Salida.

    • Helena C.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 13, 2026

      Lakeview Gunnison

      Amazing views!

      Had a great time on this quick trip to Taylor Park Reservoir area. The views of the Sawatch Range. Tent pads seem to be level however driveways for RVs were not so much. That being said however, we will definitely be back.

    • Nika S.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 11, 2026

      Buffalo Springs

      Amazing overnight stay spot!

      We got a spot that was back far enough that it felt private, but we still got a decent view of everything. It was very peaceful, no weirdos and it is very pretty!

    • RThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 10, 2026

      Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

      Dunes and wildlife

      Beautiful campground in an incredibly interesting setting. It was definitely crowded during my stay, but quieted down nicely at night. There’s a great walking trail directly from the campground down toward the dunes. Lots of mule deer wandering through the campground and they were definitely not afraid of people—one walked within about 10 feet of me while I was setting up my tent. Really unique place and I’d happily stay here again.

    Guide to Howard

    Camping options near Howard, Colorado range from established sites with full amenities to primitive dispersed camping along forest roads. Located in the Arkansas River Valley at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, this area experiences cool nights even in summer months with temperature drops of 30-40 degrees from daytime highs. The region's camping season typically runs from late spring through early fall, with accessibility to higher elevation sites limited by snowfall from November through April.

    What to do

    River activities: Fish, raft, or swim in the Arkansas River at Hecla Junction Campground, which offers boat launch access for those exploring Browns Canyon. "Great views of the Arkansas River. Probably best suited for RVs and quick spot to camp," notes Kenneth S. from Hecla Junction Campground.

    Hiking and exploration: Trek the Rainbow Trail near Hayden Creek Road for mountain views and creek access. "Tent camped in the dispersed area because Hayden creek was full, near Rainbow trailhead, entire area to ourselves 98% of the time besides two groups of hikers over 2 nights almost 3 days," shares Shawn at Hayden Creek Road.

    Soak in hot springs: Visit Valley View Hot Springs for natural thermal pools. "We originally planned just to do a daily soak before heading to our next campsite but ended up just staying here because we enjoyed it so much," says Brittany R. at Valley View Hot Springs.

    What campers like

    Secluded creek-side camping: Hayden Creek Roadside Camp offers sites alongside flowing water. "There are a handful of dispersed camping sites along Hayden Creek Rd, South of Cuttys and before you get the the USFS campground. The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good," reports Kelly at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp.

    Family activities at resorts: Cutty's Resort offers organized activities beyond camping. "We had a good time, plenty of activities, pools, putt-putt, hiking, they had young staff that organized hands on crafts and science experiment classes for all the kids to participate in who were staying that weekend. One class was the kids making alka seltzer rockets," explains Thomas P.

    Mountain views and wildlife watching: Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area provides elevated perspectives. "Beautiful view of divide in one side and Arkansas Valley on the other. 14 day limit, we stayed 3 nights and it was quiet and peaceful. We saw Bats, Nighthawks, Turkey Vultures, Coyotes, and Deer," shares Sheridan B. at Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area.

    What you should know

    Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds require advance planning. "DO NOT GO HERE UNLESS YOU MAKE A RESERVATION! The camp host was very friendly and nice! She told us that it fills up fast and that we were so lucky to pull in when we did," warns Kirsten L. about Hecla Junction.

    Road conditions: Access varies widely between sites. "The road starts as tar and converts to gravel. It is a maintained road but is loaded with washboard so you may just have to take it easy if you have a motor home or trailer," explains Chad M. about Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area.

    Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping experience significantly. "It got very cold in October, but has beautiful views of the mountains!" notes Dare To Everywhere about Hayden Creek Road.

    Tips for camping with families

    Activities for children: Look for campgrounds with structured recreation. "We make sure to visit Cutty's every summer. Lots for the kids and adults to enjoy. Indoor and outdoor pools, mini golf, volleyball, basketball, tennis, horse shoes, bingo, karaoke, too much to list!" recommends Alicia S. at Cutty's Resort - Hayden Creek.

    Quieter locations for family rest: Some campgrounds offer more peace than others. "We had a great time with our family camping here for a long memorial day weekend. Really friendly staff, clean facilities, and very close to Salida! Was a perfect weekend," shares Mike D. about Salida North BLM.

    Connectivity concerns: Cell service varies widely. "No cell service via Verizon; very spotty with AT&T. But good, fast Wi-Fi is available," reports Matt about Sugarbush Campground.

    Tips from RVers

    Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some sites. "Our particular site was pretty unlevel but that's not the campground's fault," notes Sarah F. about Cutty's Resort.

    Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location. "Sites are close together but very nice and level, plus there isn't large gravel which is a lot easier on the tent. The facilities and laundry room were clean," explains Will T. about Sugarbush Campground.

    Size restrictions: Not all roads accommodate larger rigs. "Nothing is officially marked but you can tell where others have camped and many sites have a fire ring. Shortly after you enter the Wildlife Area if your driving an RV or trailer you may want to take a right and explore that area," suggests Chad M. about Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where can I find camping sites in Howard County?

    Howard County offers diverse camping opportunities. Sugarbush Campground is conveniently located near Howard and provides drive-in access. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Road 240 - Dispersed offers wooded sites with river access. The area also features several dispersed camping options along forest service roads that provide peaceful settings away from crowds. Most camping areas are accessible from late spring through early fall, with high-elevation sites typically snow-free from June through September.

    What amenities are available at Howard County campgrounds?

    Amenities vary widely across Howard County campgrounds. Riverside RV Park offers riverside campsites with the soothing sounds of the Arkansas River, ideal for RVers seeking water access. Ohaver Lake Campground provides lakeside sites with excellent trout fishing. Most established campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Dispersed camping areas typically offer minimal amenities—just beautiful scenery and privacy. Some campgrounds have potable water during peak season, but it's always wise to bring your own, especially at primitive sites.

    Do I need reservations for camping in Howard County?

    Reservation requirements vary across Howard County camping areas. Rincon Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area requires reservations through Colorado Parks & Wildlife (800-244-5613 or cpwshop.com). Hecla Junction Campground also operates on a reservation system. For dispersed camping areas like 228A Dispersed Campsite, no reservations are needed, but these operate on a first-come, first-served basis. During peak summer months and holidays, securing reservations for established campgrounds is highly recommended, especially on weekends.

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