Summary
There’s a nightly fee, and permits are required via Recreation.gov. The area has basic amenities: a vault toilet, fire ring, picnic table, and a wood stove inside, but no running water or electricity—campers must bring water and supplies. RVs and trailers are not advised due to rough access roads. Set in a scenic, high-alpine meadow surrounded by forest, it’s peaceful and remote with nearby hiking, off-roading, and fishing near Buena Vista. Best visited June–September for mild weather and accessible roads.
Nearby Campgrounds
Bassam Guardstation/Cabin
Ruby Mountain
Mushroom Gulch Site 1
Ruby Mountain - Arkansas Headwaters State Rec Area
Mushroom Gulch Site 2
Mushroom Gulch Site 3
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Arkansas River Near Nathrop
|
258cfs |
Arkansas River At Salida
|
239cfs |
Arkansas River Near Wellsville
|
342cfs |
Arkansas River Below Granite
|
157cfs |
S Platte R Ab 11-Mile Canyon Re
|
93cfs |
Clear Creek Above Clear Creek Reservoir
|
-999cfs |
Camping Essential Practices
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.
Related Links
Nearby Snowpack Depths
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NATHROP 1.9 WSW
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0" |
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NATHROP 3.3 WSW
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0" |
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BUENA VISTA
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0" |
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NOHRSC SALIDA 1.8 SSW
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0" |
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NOHRSC GUFFEY 5.5 W
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0" |
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SOUTH PLATTE RIVER
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0" |
CR 300 22504, Nathrop
AHRA - Ruby Mountain Rec Sits
AHRA - Fishermans Bridge Rec Site
AHRA - Hecla Junction Rec Site
AHRA - Stone Bridge Rec Site
Browns Canyon (Fisherman's Bridge to Stone Bridge)
Milk Run
Arkansas River Segment 2
Buena Vista Whitewater Park