Colorado Parks and Wildlife

The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is recognized as one of the nation's most popular whitewater rafting and kayaking locations. The Arkansas River is the most commercially rafted river in the United States and is noted for its world-class fishery, which provides an excellent opportunity for anglers to test their skills at catching brown and rainbow trout.

AHRA visitors also enjoy camping, hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, and even gold panning along the river’s shores, deep canyons, broad valleys, and towering mountain peaks found within the upper Arkansas River valley.

The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a landmark cooperative effort between Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW), the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the US Forest Service (USFS). Through this partnership, the agencies provide visitors with outstanding recreation opportunities and care for the nationally significant natural resources of the Upper Arkansas River Valley.

High Water Advisory in Effect?

Pine Creek Rapid

Yes

Numbers

Royal Gorge

Events

Kids ages 2-4, with parent or guardian over 18, are invited to participate in an activity about the AHRA, our rangers, the river and more! Arts n crafts activity included. Free.

Kids ages 5-11, with parent or guardian over 18, are invited to participate in an activity about the AHRA, our rangers, the river and more! Free.

Kids ages 5-11 y.o., join the Park Naturalist in River Park Pavilion in BV to learn about our state park, the rangers, the river and more!

COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE

Email

High Water Advisory in Effect?

Find us on Facebook!

Events

Salida Whitewater Park Webcam

Buena Vista Whitewater
Park Webcam

COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

High Water Advisory in Effect?