Best Campgrounds near Salida, CO
The Arkansas River Valley around Salida gives campers plenty of choices within short drives. Turtle Rock Campground sits a few miles north toward Buena Vista, with several hiking trails and good Rocky Mountain views from most sites. Ruby Mountain Campground lets you camp right by the Arkansas River, making it easy to fish or put in kayaks and rafts. Many campers like Cascade Campground for its well-maintained bathrooms and quiet setting away from the main roads. You'll find Cottonwood Lake Campground under a canopy of aspen trees that keep sites cool during hot days. Watch for deer and birds throughout the area, and remember to store food properly since bears sometimes visit these campgrounds. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable camping weather, while summer can get hot in the lower elevations. Winter camping is possible but snowy, especially at higher sites. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers even for summer trips. Most campgrounds have roads that any car can handle, though a few spots need vehicles with more clearance. Always check if the campgrounds are open before heading out, as many close seasonally. From Salida, you can also take day trips to the Great Sand Dunes or spend time on the Colorado River.
