Salida sits in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley at 7,083 feet elevation, creating a microclimate with milder conditions than surrounding mountain areas. RV camping near Salida offers access to the Collegiate Peaks, with 14,000-foot mountains dominating the skyline. Summer nights can drop below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, requiring campers to pack accordingly for significant temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At Wilderness Expeditions RV Park, campers have direct river access. One visitor noted, "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."
Mountain biking trails: Stay at Salida RV Resort for easy access to nearby trail systems. A mountain biker mentioned, "Staid here 2 nights for some MTBing. Perfect spot for access to Methodist Trail system, down town and easy bike ride away."
High altitude hiking: When camping at Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground, you'll be at over 8,000 feet elevation with quick access to high-country trails. A reviewer emphasized, "It's at over 8000 feet and the views are amazing. We can see snow."
What campers like
River views: Campers consistently praise riverside spots. At Salida RV Resort, one camper appreciated that there are "over 20 back in against the river sites. Several great spots close to river sites with mature trees and good amenities."
Wildlife sightings: At Bighorn Park, the natural setting offers wildlife viewing opportunities. A visitor shared, "We spotted big horn sheep on the cliff behind us! The park also had a live singer entertain one night!"
Cleanliness standards: Campground maintenance receives frequent mention in reviews. A visitor to Monarch Spur noted their "very clean bathhouse" while another stated the park has "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
Leveling requirements: Many sites throughout the region require leveling equipment. At Riverside RV Park, a camper reported, "The gravel site was level side to side but sloped slightly back to front."
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit near Highway 50, creating ambient road noise. At Bighorn Park, a reviewer mentioned it's "right on Hwy 50 which means easy access, but also lots of road noise."
Mosquito preparation: River proximity means insects can be prevalent. A Salida RV Resort visitor warned, "I do believe mosquitoes would be an issue if it's not too windy, but that should be expected near water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Royal Gorge RV Resort & Cabins offers dedicated kids' areas. A camper highlighted, "The playground was very kid friendly and the giant jumping pillow was super fun!"
Tent camping options: Not all family groups need RVs to enjoy the area. At Royal Gorge RV Resort, a camper found, "We had a great tent spot up on the hill with a great view of the valley behind. So it was a quiet tent spot to ourself, but 30 seconds down the hill for access to the amazing restroom and showers!"
Community activities: Some campgrounds organize special events. At Monarch Spur, one family noted, "The kids didn't want to go anywhere they were happy just to hang out here at the campground," attributing this to the range of on-site activities.
Tips from RVers
Creek-side positioning: At Wilderness Expeditions, one RVer shared their strategy: "We were lucky enough to get a spot to park our 27ft trailer parallel to the creek - so we have a perfectly private front yard with a view."
Connectivity considerations: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of internet access. A visitor to Salida RV Resort mentioned, "Campground internet was spotty but cell service is great so internet is very good if you have a hot spot."
Site selection strategy: Premium sites offer more space and better views at most parks. An RVer at Mount Princeton RV Park noted, "We were in their standard sites, which are pretty close to your neighbor... typical of RV park. They did have premium sites which were more spacious."
