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Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area/Ruby Mountain Campground
Overview
Overview
Ruby Mountain Campground is a scenic, rustic destination situated within the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area near Nathrop, Colorado. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, this site provides a classic mountain camping experience. It is designed for those who appreciate the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains rather than modern resort comforts, offering a quiet, immersive escape right along the banks of the Arkansas River.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is tucked away in the Upper Arkansas Valley, providing dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. Nestled between Buena Vista and Salida, the site sits in a high-desert environment characterized by scrub oak, sagebrush, and expansive blue skies. The Arkansas River flows immediately adjacent to the sites, creating a soothing soundscape and placing travelers directly within one of the most iconic river corridors in the state of Colorado.
Amenities & Park Features
As a primitive-style recreation area, Ruby Mountain Campground focuses on the essentials. Visitors will find tent and RV sites that cater to smaller rigs and camper vans rather than large motorhomes. The site is equipped with vault toilets and basic picnic tables at each campsite. Because it emphasizes a natural experience, there are no electric or water hookups available, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy off-grid camping and self-contained travel.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw of this location is its proximity to world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities on the Arkansas River. The area is also a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts looking to access miles of hiking and mountain biking trails that traverse the nearby Collegiate Peaks. Additionally, travelers can spend time exploring the historic ghost towns or relaxing in the local natural hot springs located just a short drive away in the surrounding valley.
Who This Park Is Best For
Ruby Mountain is perfect for travelers seeking a secluded mountain retreat rather than a luxury RV park. It is best suited for those driving smaller RVs, camper vans, or trucks with trailers who are comfortable with dry camping. If you are an angler, a paddler, or simply someone who enjoys falling asleep to the sound of a rushing river in a quiet, rugged environment, this campsite serves as an excellent base for your Colorado adventures.
Features & Amenities
- Tenting
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Mary Cernik
Freaking amazing river access, I love this place so much. Beautiful, serene, I found a piece of jasper!
Jason Frey
The location offers beautiful scenery and some truly lovely views, but unfortunately, that’s where the positives end. The noise level is overwhelming. From sunrise to sunset, there were constant sounds of quads, motorcycles (both on and off road), construction, and people driving in just to use the bathrooms. The campsites are arranged with little to no privacy; from my spot at site #1315, people frequently walked through or around my camp area. It felt more like a crowded rest stop than a peaceful getaway. The bathrooms were also in very poor condition. I understand that campground facilities can have a certain odor, but these smelled strongly of ammonia, as if they hadn’t been cleaned in quite some time. In addition, the campground is bordered by private property on both sides, which made it feel confined rather than remote or open to nature. Overall, while the views are nice, the lack of privacy, high noise level, and poorly maintained facilities made for a disappointing stay. I wouldn’t recommend this campground and won’t be returning.
Karen McGrath
If I could give a minus , I would. After driving 2.5 hours, my site was occupied! No people there, no host. Ridiculous. Went home. E mailed them to no avail. 😡
Lienna OLEKSIYENKO
Extremely clean and well maintained spot by the river, overlooking Mt Princeton and Mt Antero. Beautiful views and proximity to the water make it very convenient.
Alison Demzon
This has to be the most beautiful campground we have been at. The downsides are there is no hookups of any kind, so bring your own water and power, and there is no trash pickup, so pack it in, pack it out. Past that the views are the best I have seen, the sites are setup wonderfully, and there is the Arkansas River right there, and Brown's Canyon right next door.