Cotopaxi sits right along the Arkansas River and serves as a perfect basecamp for Colorado rafting, fishing, hiking, and exploring the southern Rockies. Whether you’re planning a quick overnight stay or building a multi-day outdoor itinerary, camping near Cotopaxi puts you close to river access, mountain trails, and wide-open wilderness.
Below are five of the best campgrounds near Cotopaxi, ranked by proximity, setting, and overall experience, from riverside sites to quiet forest escapes.
Quick Answer: Best Camping Near Cotopaxi, CO
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Closest campground: Cutty’s Hayden Creek Resort (7.4 miles)
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Best riverfront camping: Five Points Campground
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Best Arkansas River access: Texas Creek Campground
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Best quiet, primitive option: Hayden Creek Campground
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Best high-elevation hiking access: Alvarado Campground
Five Points Campground
Arkansas Headwaters State Recreation Area
Distance from Cotopaxi: 14.5 miles
Five Points Campground is one of the most scenic riverfront campgrounds in the area. Sites sit directly along the Arkansas River, making it easy to relax by the water and fall asleep to the sound of flowing rapids.
Why campers love it:
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Spacious sites with river access
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Excellent stargazing and sunset views
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Close to rafting put-ins and fishing spots
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Access to nearby hiking trails
This campground is especially popular with rafters and anglers looking to stay close to the action without sacrificing peace and scenery.
Cutty’s Hayden Creek Resort
Distance from Cotopaxi: 7.4 miles
Cutty’s Hayden Creek Resort is the closest campground to Cotopaxi and a top choice for RV travelers or campers who want full amenities in a mountain setting.
Highlights include:
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RV hookups and tent camping
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On-site facilities and services
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Surrounded by forested peaks and alpine air
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Easy access to hiking, horseback riding, and river activities
Its location makes it easy to pair camping with rafting or fishing trips based in Cotopaxi.
Hayden Creek Campground
Distance from Cotopaxi: 9.2 miles
For those seeking a quieter, more secluded camping experience, Hayden Creek Campground delivers. With only 11 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, it offers a true unplugged feel.
Good to know:
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Small, low-key campground
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Limited sites, arrive early
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Ideal for campers seeking solitude and simplicity
This is a solid choice if you prefer minimal crowds and a more rustic experience.
Texas Creek Campground
Distance from Cotopaxi: ~12 miles
Texas Creek Campground offers classic Arkansas River camping with wide-open views and quick access to outdoor recreation. Set along a broad stretch of river, this campground is popular with rafters, anglers, and road-trippers exploring the Arkansas River corridor.
What to expect:
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River-adjacent campsites
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Easy access to rafting and fishing
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Big skies and scenic canyon views
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Convenient location for day trips to Cotopaxi, Salida, and the Royal Gorge area
This is a great option if you want to stay close to the river without venturing far from town.
Alvarado Campground
Pike & San Isabel National Forests
Distance from Cotopaxi: 29.5 miles
Alvarado Campground sits higher in elevation and serves as a gateway to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It’s a favorite for hikers, equestrian campers, and anyone chasing alpine lake views.
What to expect:
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Tent, RV, and equestrian sites
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Access to challenging high-altitude hikes
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Remote mountain setting
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Roughly 45 minutes from Cotopaxi
If your trip includes serious hiking or backcountry exploration, this campground is worth the drive.
Things to Know Before Camping Near Cotopaxi
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Reservations: Some campgrounds are reservable; others are first-come, first-served
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Elevation: Many sites sit above 7,000 feet, plan for cooler nights
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Peak season: Summer weekends fill quickly, especially near the river
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Wildlife: Proper food storage is essential
Pair Your Camping Trip With a River Adventure
Camping near Cotopaxi puts you right in the heart of Colorado’s most iconic rafting corridor. After setting up camp, you’re minutes away from unforgettable river experiences on the Arkansas River.
Arkansas River Tours offers trips for every comfort level, including:
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Family-friendly rafting through Bighorn Sheep Canyon
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Intermediate whitewater with big scenery
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High-adrenaline Royal Gorge rafting for experienced paddlers
Whether you camp riverside or retreat into the mountains, adding a day on the water is one of the best ways to experience this region.
Who We Are
Arkansas River Tours is a locally owned and operated Colorado outfitter based right here in Cotopaxi. For decades, we’ve been guiding guests down the Arkansas River and helping them experience this region the same way we do, through time on the water, respect for the landscape, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
Our team of professional guides knows the river corridor, nearby campgrounds, and surrounding public lands inside and out. From family-friendly rafting trips through Bighorn Sheep Canyon to advanced whitewater in the Royal Gorge, we focus on safe, well-run experiences that connect people to Colorado’s wild places.
When we’re not on the river, you’ll find us camping nearby, scouting new access points, and sharing local tips with visitors planning their time in Cotopaxi. If you’re looking for firsthand knowledge, reliable guidance, and authentic local insight, you’re in the right place.
Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Near Cotopaxi, CO
Is there camping near Cotopaxi, Colorado?
Yes. There are several campgrounds near Cotopaxi, CO, including riverfront sites along the Arkansas River, quiet forest campgrounds, RV resorts, and high-elevation mountain campgrounds. Options range from developed campgrounds with amenities to more primitive, first-come, first-served sites.
What is the best riverfront campgrounds near Cotopaxi?
Five Points Campground and Texas Creek Campground are two of the best options for rafting access. Both are located along the Arkansas River and sit close to popular rafting sections like Bighorn Sheep Canyon, making them ideal for campers planning time on the water.
What is the closest campground to Cotopaxi, CO?
Cutty’s Hayden Creek Resort is the closest campground to Cotopaxi, located approximately 7.4 miles from town. It’s a good option for RV travelers or campers looking for amenities while staying close to river activities.
Are campgrounds near Cotopaxi first-come, first-served?
Some are. Hayden Creek Campground, for example, is first-come, first-served and has a limited number of sites. Others, such as campgrounds within the Arkansas Headwaters State Recreation Area, may offer reservations depending on the season.
When is the best time to camp near Cotopaxi, CO?
Late spring through early fall is the best time for camping near Cotopaxi. Summer offers the warmest weather and peak rafting conditions, while late spring and early fall provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Can I combine camping with whitewater rafting near Cotopaxi?
Absolutely. Cotopaxi is located along one of Colorado’s most popular rafting corridors. Many visitors camp nearby and schedule rafting trips on the Arkansas River, including family-friendly floats and advanced whitewater sections.
Are RVs allowed at campgrounds near Cotopaxi?
Yes. Several campgrounds near Cotopaxi accommodate RVs, including Cutty’s Hayden Creek Resort and select Arkansas Headwaters State Recreation Area campgrounds. Availability and hookups vary by location.
Is camping near Cotopaxi good for families?
Yes. Many campgrounds near Cotopaxi are family-friendly and close to easy rafting sections, fishing access, and short hikes. Families should check site amenities, river conditions, and age requirements for activities when planning their trip.
