The Poncha Springs area sits at elevations above 7,000 feet at the junction of US Highway 50 and US Highway 285 in central Colorado. The region experiences cool mountain nights even in summer, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F in summer months. Campgrounds in the area provide access to the Arkansas River corridor while high mountain passes lead to backcountry recreation opportunities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The South Arkansas River and nearby Arkansas River offer excellent trout fishing access. At Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground, campers can fish directly on the property. According to one camper, "It is right on the S. Arkansas, which has browns and rainbows for skilled and licensed anglers."
Mountain hiking: Trails around Buena Vista provide panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks. The Turtle Rock Campground area offers easy access to these trails. A visitor noted, "There is a rock climbing trail and beautiful views of the peaks near by for some daytime entertainment."
Hot springs soaking: The region contains several natural hot springs facilities. Valley View Hot Springs offers multiple pools at different temperatures. A camper explained, "Valley View is a large swath of land with about 12 beautiful pools and about 20+ camping spots. You need to reserve well in advance as the demand is much higher than the capacity."
What campers like
River proximity: Many sites offer direct water access, important during hot summer days. At Wilderness Expeditions RV Park, "Our site was backed up directly to the river. Helpful hosts, hookups available, a great place to camp peacefully yet still be near the amenities of Salida."
Mountain views: The Collegiate Peaks create striking backdrops from campsites. At Salida East Campground, "Epic Mountain Views and awesome Arkansas river access make it a great spot for a trip to the area. Salida is a short drive or good walk from the campground, and a lot of restaurants and shops are less than ten minutes from the campground."
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds provide activities beyond camping. According to a visitor at Cutty's Resort, "We had a great time. The pools on site were perfect for the kids. On site mini golf was a blast. The views in the campground were awesome."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The high elevation means temperature fluctuations. At Cutty's Resort - Hayden Creek, "The mountain views aren't too bad either. I can't forget to mention the staff. They are so friendly and work to make your stay enjoyable."
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance planning, especially for glamping close to Poncha Springs, Colorado. According to a visitor, "Valley View is a large swath of land with about 12 beautiful pools and about 20+ camping spots. You need to reserve well in advance as the demand is much higher than the capacity."
Clothing-optional facilities: Some hot springs in the area are clothing-optional. A visitor explained, "Valley View is a place where clothing is optional. You need to be able to chill and relax and be cool with nudity. If you meet that criteria, you just found your new favorite place."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Find campgrounds with built-in activities for children. One parent at BV Overlook shared, "Great Place for families, a nice playground and on Saturday night we had a ice cream social. The campsites are gravel and dirt so it is dusty."
Digital connectivity: If you need to work remotely, consider signal strength. A family at BV Overlook noted, "We needed a place with WiFi or strong cell reception so we could work remotely on Friday before hitting the trails. BV Overlook has both! AT&T had strong 5G coverage and the starlink internet reached all the way to our campsite."
Site selection: River sites provide entertainment but can have trade-offs. A family camping at Salida East Campground reported, "We read a lot of reviews that made this place sound bad, but it wasn't that way at all. Everyone is super friendly and the water sites are great!"
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds provide complete RV amenities. At Arrowhead Point Resort, "Great location just 5.5 miles from Buena Vista downtown. Nice spacious sites (for RV) with full hookup. Quarters required for showers."
Campground locations: Consider proximity to towns when choosing sites. At Wilderness Expeditions RV Park, "Fantastic little campground right on the Arkansas river. It's also right across the road from a Walmart and a Sonic, but down in a small valley so you don't hear the road noise."
Elevation considerations: The high altitude affects your systems. One RVer noted, "High altitude means cool to cold nights. Gorgeous area and park!" Remember propane appliances work less efficiently at higher elevations and nights can require heating even in summer.
