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Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area/Vallie Bridge Campground
Overview
Vallie Bridge Campground serves as a peaceful gateway to the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. Nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River in Cotopaxi, Colorado, this site offers a scenic riverside experience that contrasts sharply with busy commercial parks. Managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, it provides a simple, well-maintained environment where the sound of the water dominates the atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for those who appreciate the raw beauty of the High Rockies.
Location & Surroundings
Located off Highway 50 between Salida and Canon City, the park sits within a rugged canyon landscape. The Arkansas River is the centerpiece here, flowing directly past the campsites and providing a lush corridor of cottonwood trees. Travelers will find themselves surrounded by steep hillsides and dramatic rock formations. Its position makes it a perfect basecamp for exploring the Bighorn Sheep Canyon, where wildlife sightings are frequent and the sunsets transform the canyon walls.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a primitive camping location, meaning it is best suited for self-contained RVs. While it lacks modern utility connections, it provides the essentials for a comfortable stay in nature. Key features include:
- Vault toilets and communal trash receptacles for guest convenience.
- Individual fire rings and heavy-duty picnic tables at every site.
- Dedicated river access points for rafters, kayakers, and anglers.
There are no water or electrical hookups available on-site, so travelers should arrive with full fresh water tanks and plenty of power to enjoy the dry camping experience.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the water, making this a premier destination for gold medal trout fishing and whitewater rafting. For those who prefer land-based adventures, the nearby city of Salida offers charming art galleries and relaxing hot springs. A short drive east leads to the famous Royal Gorge Bridge, while the surrounding San Isabel National Forest provides endless miles of hiking and mountain biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Who This Park Is Best For
Vallie Bridge is perfect for self-sufficient RV travelers who prioritize location and natural beauty over modern luxuries. If you enjoy dry camping and want to be steps away from world-class river recreation, this park fits your style. It is particularly well-suited for anglers and rafters who want to maximize their time on the water. Those seeking a quiet, authentic Colorado experience away from the crowds will find exactly what they need here.
Amenities
- Tenting
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
David Brereton
Facilities and overall river valley setting were great. Very well maintained. Restroom [pit toilets] were clean. Could hear the river flowing all night, which was great. The camp ground's layout is not very creative--with campsites all in 2 rows with very little space between sites and no privacy. River access is great.
Mike Wolf
The camp area is nice and clean. However campsites are so close you can here everything your neighbors are doing with no privacy. No trash pickup, toilets are far. Fishing is great. A bit expensive for how little you get in camp amenities.
Deborah Foister
This place was very pretty. Beautiful water. Nice quiet area. With very nice camp sites. There were only a few RV/Campers/Vans. Don't recall tents there, too cold.
Patricia Fryc
The views and access to the river are amazing. If weather forecasts wind, definitely brace yourselves.
Rebecca Johnson
One of my absolute favorite places to stop while cruising down hwy 50 with the dogs!! The area is relatively large giving plenty of space to play and stretch the dogs legs while in the car for long periods of time. It's a great spot to fish and just dip into the river on a beautiful day. The dogs especially love swimming here! The campground is pretty large but a bit crammed for my liking BUT the space allows for a quick camp overnight on a long road trip which is all you can ask for! Some cows here and there but they're so friendly and give plenty of space. Have fun!