RV campgrounds near Howard, Colorado offer camping options in the Arkansas River Valley at elevations between 7,000-8,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during peak day hours. Most campgrounds in this region feature mountain views with pine and cedar trees providing natural shade at select sites.
What to do
River activities: Access from Wilderness Expeditions RV Park: Located directly on the Arkansas River with easy water access. "Backed up directly to the river. Helpful hosts, hookups available, a great place to camp peacefully yet still be right near the amenities of Salida. The expedition company is right next door as well offering all sorts of activities."
Mountain biking: Trails near Salida RV Resort: Perfect for accessing nearby trail systems within cycling distance. "Staid here 2 nights for some MTBing. Perfect spot for access to Methodist Trail system, down town and easy bike ride away. Grounds were immaculate, sites perfectly level and raked after each guest."
Wildlife viewing: Mountain slopes near campsites: Several parks offer opportunities to spot native wildlife including bighorn sheep. "We spotted big horn sheep on the cliff behind us! The park also had a live singer entertain one night!"
What campers like
River sounds: Bighorn Park: Riverside spots allow campers to fall asleep to the sound of flowing water. "We have an Outlaw toy hauler so we're so lucky to get a back-in spot overlooking the river. Slept with the back open and fell asleep to the river sounds. Just heavenly!"
On-site recreation: Facilities beyond campsites: Several campgrounds feature additional recreational options. "The views are amazing. They have a nice camp store, WiFi that works, golf cart rental, a playground, kids games, a community area (even host occasional concerts) fishing, and a river running through."
Temperature management: Higher elevation camping: The higher elevation provides cooler temperatures compared to lower areas. "High altitude means cool to cold nights. Gorgeous area and park!"
What you should know
Seasonal access: Winter closures common: Most campgrounds operate from May through October. "All in all, we'd stay here again for a visit, just not if you plan to hang out at your site much. It's pricey for the premium sites, but they're definitely more appealing vs the middle 'parking lot' area."
Highway noise: Proximity to main roads: Some campgrounds experience road noise from nearby Highway 50. "It is by hwy 50, busy in the day time, but not much traffic at night. This a great spot to refresh supplies before boonkocking in the mountains."
Connectivity: Variable cell service at Mountaindale Cabin & RV Resort: Some campgrounds offer WiFi but limited cellular coverage. "Only minor knock was the cell service which was nonexistent but they did have free internet which was a satisfactory alternative."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Water features: Look for campgrounds with access to water features for children. "The kids didn't want to go anywhere they were happy just to hang out here at the campground."
Wildlife opportunities: Morning and evening viewing: Schedule wildlife observation during dawn and dusk hours. "We saw deer wander around the campsites every morning and evening. The sites are terraced so that everyone has a beautiful view."
Space considerations: Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground: Some sites provide more room for families to spread out. "Really enjoyed staying at this park, site was incredibly long but a bit skinny but did the trick. You can hear the river running almost everywhere in the park."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: River proximity vs. space: Consider priorities when selecting spots. "We stayed for three nights and would definitely return. Spots for RVs as well as tents. Also has cabins for rent. Didn't see inside one, but they looked really nice from the outside."
Leveling requirements: Varied terrain: Be prepared with leveling equipment. "The bathhouse is extremely clean, with several private bathroom/shower rooms. There is also a laundry with 4 washers & dryers. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and the folks are all friendly."
Access considerations: Sand Dunes Recreation: Some rv campgrounds near Howard provide amenities that make extended stays more comfortable. "Showers, laundry, dump station, and even a place to wash dishes. Discounts for the hotsprings when you camp. We didn't want to leave!"
