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Park Conditions
Park Conditions

  • Boating

    Arkansas River Diversion Reconstruction  
    July 2018 - December 2019
    The Cities of Aurora and Colorado Springs will be reconstructing their Arkansas River Diversion located at river mile 16, approximately 2 miles south of Granite, Colorado.  Construction work will occur between July 2018 and December 2019 with a portage provided for downriver users throughout the project. The Clear Creek North Recreation Site will be closed to the public during the project; however, Clear Creek South Recreation Site will remain open. Construction of this project is supported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Colorado Water Conservation Board, and the Board of Water Works of Pueblo, CO.  Project questions, please call 719-668-8850.

    (Updated: 3/14/2019 11:10 AM)

  • 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.

    Access to Point Barr from the west (Wellsville) is closed. Motorized access from the east to Point Barr is open.   

    There are no potable water or hookups at any AHRA campground. Remember to bring your own drinking water and pack all trash out. Outside of AHRA developed campgrounds, campers must use a port-a-potty system. 

    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: 3/14/2019 11:11 AM)

  • Cell Phone Coverage

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

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

  • Construction

    The BLM is temporarily closing BLM Road 5969 which provides western access to Point Barr recreation area downriver from Wellsville.  Heavy rains caused substantial damage to the road and it was closed to ensure public safety.  Plans for repair are being finalized but there is no date for this construction.  The closure applies only to motorized travel in the area directly affected by the damaged retaining wall.  The eastern access route will remain open, however, high clearance vehicles are advised.
    (Updated: 3/14/2019 11:12 AM)

  • Fishing Report


     


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

  • Park Entrance

    AHRA's Salida Visitor Center is currently open 6 days a week, Monday - Saturday 8 am - 5 pm, closed 12-1 on Saturday (closed Sunday).  All Recreation Sites are open year-round barring extreme weather.  
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    AHRA's Visitor Center is conveniently located in downtown Salida, one block off Highway 291.  Annual State Parks Passes, OHV and Boat registrations, and fishing licenses are also available. 
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    BLM Firewood permits are available and AHRA has lots of maps and information about AHRA and the general area through our sales outlet for the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association (GARNA).
     
    All AHRA recreation sites and campgrounds are open year-round, barring extreme weather. NOTICE: Storms can cause a bit of a mess on roads and highways within the AHRA. PLEASE USE CAUTION as roads can be rough, icy and rocky.
     
    Access to Point Barr from the west (Wellsville) is closed. Motorized access from the east to Point Barr is open.   
     
    Self-Serve pay stations for day passes are located at AHRA recreation sites.  Camping reservations must be made prior to occupying any site.  You may make a reservation online or by calling (800) 244-5613.  The fourteen primitive sites at Salida East remain walk-up/non-reservable sites, and self-serve passes for those sites (only) are located at the Salida East entrance.
    (Updated: 9/6/2019 8:33 AM)

  • 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.  

    Access to Point Barr from the west (Wellsville) is closed. Motorized access from the east to Point Barr is open. 
     
    (Updated: 3/14/2019 11:38 AM)

  • Trails

    Trails along the river are dry however, check local current conditions and watch for areas that could flash flood.  Be prepared with proper attire for outdoor activities.
    (Updated: 3/14/2019 11:19 AM)

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