The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) is one of the nation’s most popular locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking and home to the most commercially rafted river in the United States, the Arkansas River! Tumbling 4,650’ in 152 miles, boaters can find anything from roaring Class IV and V rapids, to milder Class II and III sections, which are ideal for beginner and family trips. AHRA also offers a world-class trout fishery and sightseeing within the Upper Arkansas River Valley as well as abundant opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking, wildlife watching, horseback riding, mountain biking and OHV travel. AHRA operates eight campgrounds along the Arkansas River, all of which have boat ramps for raft and kayak access. Please visit the Arkansas Headwaters website for current conditions and more information: https://ahra.mobi/park
Unlike most other Colorado State Parks, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) does not have one set of driving directions to get to the park. This is because the AHRA is actually a linear recreation area that follows the Arkansas River for 152 miles from the high mountains near Leadville, Colorado, to Lake Pueblo, on the edge of Colorado plains. There are a number of highways and roads entering the valley. Along the way, the AHRA has eight basic campgrounds, numerous picnic areas, fishing and boating access points and trail access. PLEASE NOTE: You do not need to check in at the visitor center prior to your arrival if you are camping. You may go directly to the campground. Please see Campground Directions printed at the bottom of your confirmation letter or visit https://ahra.mobi/camping for directions to individual campgrounds.
