Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Bureau of Land Management, Colorado.
Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.
Overview
The Arkansas River is one of the most popular river-rafting spots in the United States. The area also provides some of the best fishing in Colorado. The spectacular scenery is highlighted by the steep, narrow, rocky canyons that provide excellent opportunities to view Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. There are over 25 developed river-access areas. Popular activities include rockhounding at Ruby Mountain, fishing for brown trout at Hecla Junction, and wildlife-watching at the Five Points Watchable Wildlife Area in Bighorn Sheep Canyon. The area is jointly managed by the BLM and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office.
Nearby Activities
- Accessible Swimming
- Auto Touring
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Interpretive Programs
- Photography
- Picnicking
- Water Sports
- Wildlife Viewing
- Winter Sports
Directions
The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area extends about 148 miles from Leadville to the Pueblo Reservoir through the towns of Buena Vista, Salida, Caсon City, and Florence. From Leadville to Salida, there are a number of access points along US-24/US-285. From Salida to Caсon City, there are access points along US-50.
