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The Arkansas River corridor near Nathrop, Colorado provides a spectrum of campground options, from developed facilities to dispersed sites on public land. The region includes established campgrounds like Chalk Creek Campground and Ruby Mountain Campground, with access to the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV campers, with some locations also offering cabin or glamping options. Sites along waterways tend to be the most sought-after, particularly those along Chalk Creek and the Arkansas River, which provide natural sound barriers from nearby highways and access to fishing opportunities.
Road access varies significantly throughout the area, with many campgrounds accessible via maintained gravel roads. The area experiences typical mountain weather patterns with cool nights even during summer months. Reservations are required at most developed campgrounds from April through October, while some sites remain open year-round. "The campground was remodeled in 2016 and the host keeps it in great condition. There is not a lot of shade but the temperatures stayed comfortable due to the proximity to the river," noted one camper about Ruby Mountain. Elevation changes affect temperatures significantly, with higher sites experiencing cooler conditions. Cell service can be spotty at some locations, particularly those nestled in valleys or against mountain backdrops.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the Nathrop area. The Arkansas River provides both scenic value and recreational opportunities for fishing and rafting. Several campgrounds feature river access, making them popular with anglers and water enthusiasts. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, sites near Chalk Creek are particularly valued for their creek-side locations and natural sound buffering from highway noise. One camper described their experience: "We stayed at the RV site in the lower campground right on the creek. Beautiful setting with fire pit, 30 amp hookup and picnic table." Proximity to natural hot springs, particularly Mount Princeton Hot Springs, adds to the appeal of campgrounds in this area. Most developed campgrounds provide at least basic amenities such as vault toilets, while some offer full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities.
"This place is so easy to get to and is very close to the city of Buena Vista. Any type of car can make it to the campsites and there are bathroom facilities available."
"Over 50 sites available, some grouped together, others you can just drive in and have plenty of privacy. There are even public vault toilets available."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Nestled just south of Buena Vista and right next to Nathrop, this campsite has stunning views and is just a walk away from some great Brown's Canyon trails."
"Here are the positives: Great access to the Arkansas River (fishing, put-in/ - take/out access)
- Very well-maintained spaces and clean bathrooms
- Minutes from rafting outfitters (we always go through"
from $28 / night
Check Availability"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
Check Availability"The hiking is good with several trailheads and easy access to the Colorado Trail."
"Recommend the hike to browns lake nearby. Vault toilets at the trailhead if needed. Our spot was right off the Colorado trail, lots of thru hikers going by."
"The kitchen is fully functional, plus a BBQ and picnic table on the outside. The grounds were quiet and we had plenty of space away from neighboring visitors."
"Location is great and is close by to Mt Princeton Hot Springs, rafting on the Arkansas River, hiking, and the town of Buena Vista."
from $40 - $180 / night
Check Availability"Large well-spaced sites within a short driving distance to BV. Great access to the colorado trail."
"Kinda busy with good access to Browns creek and the Colorado trail, but otherwise quiet if you can squeeze in. Easy for trailers too."
"Within 20 minutes of driving you have multiple Colorado 14ers to hike, amazing fishing, miles of mountain biking trails and 2 amazing towns with great places to eat or grab a beer. "
"Beautiful surroundings, picnic tables, fire rings. I gave it a 4 because of annoying rig running generator and a little highway noise."
"We attended and stayed here for a off road group event in September and was perfect for our large group. The meadow campground area has sites right on the creek!"
"Great location between Buena Vista and Salida. We had a site right on the creek. Easy access to Arkansas River off the highway for fishing and we drove up to St."
"This is probably my family's favorite area to camp in Colorado. Off the beaten path enough that traffic is minimal. But nice and close to some great four wheel and off roading areas."
"This place is beautifully positioned in the trees. Clean facilities, a wonderful camp host and fellow campers were great. 15 minutes from Buena Vista and 30 to Salida. "
from $25 / night
Check Availability"Cottonwood creek and Cottonwood lake are close by. The first come first serve sites are spacious and well laid out. There is a very nice day use picnic and fishing docks on the lake."
"Cottonwood Lake campground near Buena Vista is my favorite campground on this particular road (my other favorite campground in the vicinity is Cascade)."
from $22 / night
Check Availability
TravelerStayed up here is our van. Roads weren’t too bad. Lots a spots with beautiful yellow aspen trees and some lovely views of mount elbert. Short drive to twin lakes and short walk to mount elbert forebay.
ScoutGreat campground. Two hosts, both very friendly. Stayed over Labor Day weekend, fairly full but still some spots open. Site 005 was very private and secluded. Not a great spot for a tent but we were able to make it work. Not the best water view but plenty of shade. Close to fence so plenty of cattle nearby, but they were quiet at night. Would come back!
GuideGreat spot tucked in to the trees, crazy bright stars,
ScoutIncredible views, well maintained facilities, and lake access nearby.
GuideI've was the Camp Host at Hecla Junction for the summer of 2026. Here is what you should know...
The 3 mile dirt road to get here is pretty well maintained but has some very sharp turns. If you are over 40ft in length it is doable but tough.
All sites are by reservation only. There are no first come first serve sites. Plan ahead because cell service is not great. You will get one bar if you are lucky.
There are pit toilets available but there is no water, electricity or sewer. You have to pack your trash out.
All sites have a picnic table, fire ring and a spacious place for tents.
The sites are a reasonable distance from each other. The sites on the side by the river are pretty flat but the sites 1108, 1113, 1116, 1117 have a pretty steep parking area so if you plan on putting your RV there be ready to spend some time leveling.
If you have a large RV (over 35ft) you might want to avoid sites 1110-1114 because the loop has a pretty tight corner. Site 1114 is a pull-through site.
My favorite sites are 1103 (nice tree for shade), 1102-1111 (river views) and 1112 (nice view, good shade from the hill and a trail that goes to the river), 1113 and 1114 back up against the hillside and get shade earlier. 1116 and 1117 are good for really large groups (extra tables)
There is a good hiking trail that runs along the river (1.5 miles out and back). It starts from the day use area.
Quiet hours are 10:00pm to 6:00am and most people are pretty good about following that.
Hecla Junction is also a Dark Skies designated park so the view of the stars is amazing!
ScoutThe PV team is so nice and helpful, the park is beautiful, very clean (even the bathrooms!) and the decorations throughout add an extra touch. They offered donuts, live music and a movie night while we were here. This park exceeded our expectations and we will for sure be staying here again.
GuideStunning views and drive all around, very easy to access from Breckenridge, and quiet.
Bear boxes at all sites. One narrow passages on the way that will only allow one vehicle at a time so expect needing to yield.
The drive up is not as bumpy as I expected it to be, so a sedan could make it.
TravelerIt's an almost off road situation. Depending on what side of the trail you come in from. Awd and a higher clearance vehicle are recommended. But the views and seclusion are totally worth it. Not many people out here and not a lot of late arriving folks. Has a decent amount of spots along the way and the night skies are absolutely worth the lack of shade in most of the spots.
ScoutThe road up is rocky but nothing crazy. Distant views of foothills and mountains. Lotsss of designated sites but also seems to be a well known favorite for dispersed camping.
The Arkansas River area near Nathrop, Colorado sits at elevations ranging from 7,000-9,000 feet, creating significant day-to-night temperature fluctuations even in summer. Most camping spots near Nathrop, Colorado experience temperature drops of 30-40 degrees after sunset, with overnight lows sometimes dipping into the 40s even in July and August. Cell reception varies dramatically based on elevation and surrounding terrain, with higher elevation sites often receiving better connectivity than valley locations.
Mountain biking from camp: At BV Overlook, campers can access trails directly from their sites. "We camped here mainly to mountain bike and we loved that you can ride right from the campsite onto the trails," reports Becky M. The campground's location makes it ideal for cyclists who want to minimize driving.
Ghost town exploration: St. Elmo ghost town sits near Cascade Campground, offering historical exploration. "Ghost town at the top of the valley. Hot springs at the bottom. Fishing all along," notes Ronny D. The preserved mining town attracts wildlife enthusiasts too, as one camper mentions, "tame chipmunks to feed and a look at our mining history."
Hot springs soaking: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to natural hot springs. "We stayed for a weekend and had a nice spot on the creek. Added bonus... it's close to Mt. Princeton Hot Springs!! Camping and hot springs....ahhhhh," shares Ronda C. about her experience at Chalk Creek Campground. The water temperature at some creeksides is affected by nearby hot springs.
River sounds for sleeping: Ruby Mountain Campground offers sites directly beside the Arkansas River. "The river provides great white noise and this campground is far enough off the highway to avoid any vehicle noise," according to Jonas C. The sound barrier created by flowing water helps mask any remaining traffic noise.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report unexpected wildlife sightings. At Salida North BLM, one camper noted, "Had big horn sheep in the campground when we pulled in." Another reviewer at Raspberry Gulch described, "Cows grazing around our campsite in the morning (it was adorable)."
Off-grid experience with connectivity: Despite the remote feel, some sites offer surprisingly good connectivity. "I came here planning on staying a couple of nights, but I think I'm going to go ahead and stay an entire week... AT&T 4G and 5G great reception," reports Allen B. about Turtle Rock Campground. This makes extended stays more feasible for remote workers.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. At Hecla Junction Campground, "The road in from US 285 is graded dirt/gravel, with some up & down steepness both directions," explains Prof K. Ruby Mountain has particularly tricky access, with one camper warning: "Keep in mind the access road into the camp is very narrow. Your best bet is to have someone be a look out and clear the road because you're in between a rock and cliff."
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: Many campgrounds change their reservation policies throughout the year. "Reservations are required at most developed campgrounds from April through October, while some sites remain open year-round," states the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area information. One camper warned about Browns Creek, "Closed Dec 1-June 1 for wildlife management."
Shade availability differs by site: Sun exposure varies dramatically between campgrounds and between sites within the same campground. "There is not a lot of shade but the temperatures stayed comfortable due to the proximity to the river," reports one camper at Ruby Mountain. At BV Overlook, the "sites are on varying elevations up a hillside so we weren't looking right at our neighbors."
Kid-friendly water access: Cottonwood Lake Campground offers safe water activities for children. "The campground is situated about a quarter mile from Cottonwood Lake, a small, pretty lake with a wide boatlaunch area - no motorized boats allowed though!" reports Audrey D. This creates a safer environment for young swimmers and paddlers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple family-friendly sites offer reliable wildlife sightings. "We saw some big horn sheep!!!" reported one camper about Browns Creek. Another family noted seeing "two great horned owls during our stay on several occasions" at Salida North BLM.
Educational history nearby: The St. Elmo ghost town near Cascade Campground provides educational value. "We also drove to St. Elmo which is a gorgeous drive to the mountains," shares Jennifer M. The preserved mining town gives children a hands-on history lesson about Colorado's mining past.
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites require additional equipment for leveling. At Hecla Junction, "Sights off the river are on a steep grade, which will require a lot of rise in trailer jacks-bring our blocks." Another camper advised that most sites "can accommodate large fifth trailers and vans as well."
Site selection for size: At Turtle Rock Campground, "There are plenty of places to hike and explore and close to BV as well," notes a reviewer, but they caution that "one note is that most of the spots are walk in rather than drive in, slightly more annoying for the roof top tents." This makes site selection crucial for larger vehicles.
Power supply variability: Electrical services vary significantly between campgrounds. At Ruby Mountain, campsites offer "no water or electric or dump station," while Browns Creek offers extensive options: "There are extensive sites in the area for all sizes of rigs. There is plenty of room and easy access for large rigs or tent camping."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in Nathrop, Colorado?
Nathrop offers excellent camping options in the scenic Chalk Creek Canyon area. Mount Princeton is one of three National Forest Service campgrounds in the canyon, featuring a camp host and great facilities. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Browns Canyon Dispersed provides quiet camping with breathtaking views of Mt. Princeton. If you prefer RV accommodations, several parks in the area offer riverside sites. The region's campgrounds put you close to hot springs resorts at the base of the canyon, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding mountains, ghost towns, and wilderness areas. Most campgrounds in this area are seasonal, typically open from late spring through early fall.
What outdoor activities can you do while camping in Nathrop, Colorado?
Nathrop's spectacular mountain setting offers diverse outdoor activities year-round. The area around Chalk Creek Canyon provides excellent hiking trails, four-wheel-drive adventures, and access to ghost towns like St. Elmo. Water enthusiasts enjoy fishing for trout in mountain lakes and streams or rafting on the nearby Arkansas River. Ohaver Lake Campground is known for incredible trout fishing where many anglers reach their daily limits. The region is also famous for its natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. Wildlife viewing, mountain biking, photography, and stargazing are popular activities. During winter months, the surrounding mountains offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities when accessible.
What amenities are available at camping sites near Nathrop, CO?
Amenities at camping sites near Nathrop vary widely depending on the type of campground. Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins offers full hookups and is considered one of the most beautiful RV parks in the area. For a more natural experience, Cascade provides basic facilities while being conveniently located near four-wheeling areas. National Forest campgrounds typically offer picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Dispersed camping areas provide few or no amenities but offer more privacy and scenic locations. Some campgrounds have potable water during peak season, while others require you to bring your own. Cell service is limited throughout the region, especially in canyon areas. Most developed campgrounds have a camp host during the summer season who can provide local information.
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