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Park Conditions
Park Conditions

  • Camping

    All campgrounds open barring inclement weather.  PLEASE USE CAUTION as roads can be rough and rocky. 

    Campers should stay aware of existing weather conditions, which are currently hot, dry and windy.  

    AHRA campgrounds do not have any electric hook-ups or potable water.  Overnight campers outside of developed campgrounds must use a portable toilet system and fire pan as required by regulation.

    Bears are active an are always looking for food. Although they have not been a nuisance at AHRA, it is always important to use your best "Bear Aware" precautions in securing your camp or picnic area to avoid unnecessary contact with wildlife. See the CPW Living with Black Bears page for more information.

    (Updated: 1/7/2020 8:54 AM)

  • Camping

    COVID-19 Update:

    CAMPGROUNDS OPEN
    All campgrounds within the AHRA are open.  If you wish to occupy a site at this park, you may reserve it 24/7 at www.cpwshop.com or by calling 1-800-244-5613.

    • Restrooms remain open and are regularly cleaned at this time.
    • Please bring your own hand sanitizer. There is no running water available.
    (Updated: 6/24/2020 12:53 PM)

  • Cell Phone Coverage

    Cell phone coverage can be sketchy throughout the AHRA, especially in Bighorn Sheep Canyon.

    (Updated: 6/12/2018 9:53 AM)

  • Fire Restrictions

    BLM & USFS Stage 2 Fire Restrictions 
    (Chaffee and Lake Counties) 
    Includes: Railroad Bridge • Hecla Junction • Ruby Mtn • Salida East

    BLM Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
    (Fremont County)
    Includes: Point Barr • Rincon • Vallie Bridge • Five Points

    Stage 2 Fire Restrictions prohibit the following acts:
    • Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal barbecue, or grills are prohibited on federal lands. The use of portable stoves, lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed.
    • Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
    Stage 1 Fire Restrictions prohibit the following acts:
    • Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campfire except within agency-provided fire grates at developed recreation sites. Devices using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are permitted.
    • Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
    (Updated: 6/24/2020 3:06 PM)

  • Fishing Report


     


    (Updated: 3/14/2019 11:14 AM)

  • Park Entrance

    ​COVID-19 Update:

    VISITOR CENTER OPEN
    The AHRA Visitor Center has re-opened to the public.  Anyone entering the building will be asked to wear a mask and maintain a 6-ft distance from others.  If you are a high-risk individual and need assistance, please call us at (719) 539-7289 to make special arrangements.

    COVID-19 Information by County

    The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area spans four counties. Be sure to know which county or counties your visit will take place in. Review county-specific COVID-19 guidelines before your visit and respect them during your stay.

    Lake County • Crystal Lakes to Kobe

    Chaffee County • Granite to Salida East
    Includes: Stone Cabin, Railroad Bridge, Tunnel View, Elephant Rock, Ruby Mountain, Hecla Junction, and Salida East Campgrounds

    Fremont County • Wellsville to Blue Heron
    Includes: Rincon, Point Barr, Vallie Bridge, and Five Points Campgrounds 

    Pueblo County • Swallows 

    (Updated: 6/24/2020 12:57 PM)

  • Road Conditions

    Roads during winter/spring are often muddy due to snow melt.  PLEASE USE CAUTION as roads can be slick due to spring storms, with potential for rock slides.  

    Be especially aware of fallen rocks on Highway 50 in Bighorn Sheep Canyon between Salida and Canon City, and always be aware of oncoming traffic.
     
    (Updated: 1/7/2020 8:48 AM)

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