The Arkansas River Valley camping area near Poncha Springs sits at elevations above 8,000 feet, creating cool to cold nights even during summer months. RV accommodations in this region provide excellent access to outdoor recreation including rafting, fishing, and hiking the nearby Colorado Trail. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October due to winter weather conditions.
What to do
Fish the Arkansas River: At Bighorn Park, campers can access the Arkansas River directly from their sites. "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," reports one visitor.
Explore mountain biking trails: Salida RV Resort provides convenient access to nearby trail systems. "Perfect spot for access to Methodist Trail system, downtown and easy bike ride away. Grounds were immaculate, sites perfectly level and raked after each guest," notes a mountain biking enthusiast.
Hike the Colorado Trail: Located just a mile from the Colorado Trail, Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground serves as a convenient base camp for hikers. "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," mentions a hiker.
What campers like
High elevation cooling: Summer temperatures in this area remain moderate due to the 8,000+ foot elevation. "High altitude means cool to cold nights. Gorgeous area and park!" explains a camper at Monarch Spur RV Park.
River sounds: Many campsites feature riverside locations with natural sound benefits. At Wilderness Expeditions RV Park, "You can still hear the main road at times, but we have great wifi connection with our set up and are close to town with all the conveniences."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. "And we even saw a moose. The stars are amazing here BTW," reports a visitor at Monarch Spur RV Park, where the dark mountain skies provide excellent stargazing conditions.
Camp amenities: Some rv campgrounds near Poncha Springs, Colorado feature additional recreational options. "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."
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Some RV parks have tighter spacing between sites. "It took a couple of tries to back our 20 foot travel trailer into the spot," notes a camper at Riverside RV Park, adding that sites are positioned parallel to the river.
Seasonal operation: Most rv campgrounds in Poncha Springs operate from May through October or early November. Mountain Time RV Park runs from May 1 to October 1, while Monarch Spur operates May 1 to November 1.
Limited tent camping: While most parks accommodate RVs, tent camping options are more limited. Wilderness Expeditions RV Park offers tent sites with pricing that varies based on amenities needed. "I stayed 2 nights in a rooftop tent while exploring the Salida and Buena Vista areas. Ran by really nice folks."
Bathroom access considerations: Some facilities require extra effort to reach. At Riverside RV Park, "the bathrooms and showers are clean but a bit worn, and they are across the river bridge from the campsites and up some fairly steep steps."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some parks offer specific amenities for children. At Monarch Spur RV Park, "The kids didn't want to go anywhere they were happy just to hang out here at the campground."
Consider seasonal allergies: Watch for cottonwood seasons if allergies affect family members. "If anyone in your party has seasonal allergies of any kind I would steer clear of this park. The park is full of Cottonwood trees and over the 4th of July they were shedding their cotton and it was everywhere."
Waterfront safety: For riverside sites, plan appropriate supervision for children. "Great campground with over 20 back in against the river sites. Several great spots close to river sites with mature trees and good amenities."
Proximity to conveniences: Mt. Princeton RV Park & Cabins provides easy access to nearby towns. "We stayed here 5 nights Sun-Fri while doing work/school and enjoyed exploring Buena Vista in the evenings!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Bighorn Park, riverside spots may require specific RV configurations. "Wow! Beautiful views! A river with cliffs on one side and mountain views on the other side. It is right on Hwy 50 which means easy access, but also lots of road noise."
Leveling preparations: Bring leveling blocks for some locations. "The sites were mostly level, though there was clearly a grade from the first site to the last, and there was a bit of grade front to back on our site."
Shower considerations: Some parks have pay showers or limited bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms were well kept. The showers were pay showers but we never used them. Laundry facilities were VERY nice and our clothes came out clean."
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies by location but is generally stronger at rv campgrounds in Poncha Springs closer to highways. "Wifi and Tmobile (3 bars of 5g) great. They sell propane here."
