arkansas headwaters recreation area

Colorado's Dept. of Wildlife and Partygoing has 42 parks in its system. The vast majority are near population centers where the public and 'cut their teeth' on the camping/hiking/fishing/etc. experience that will prepare you for the real outdoor challenges, like Rocky Mountain National Park, State Forest State Park, Golden Gate, Mueller, and so forth. Arkansas Headwaters Rec. Area (AHRA) is one of those 'Big Boys' - maybe even "Pappy." When you think of Colorado and adventure, you have to think of whitewater rafting and fly fishing stocked streams. Well, that's AHRA in a nutshell. The State has done an EXCELLENT job of setting up sites along the (Arkansas) River for kayakers and rafters to enter the water and several places to fish and camp. The stocked fish comes out of a hatchery in Salida, and they are a good size to start. Don't go here thinking you can handle it yourself on your first attempt. Get a guide. Once you get an idea, then you can go otherwise. You might even go in the Royal Gorge area and see the bridge. It's spectacular scenery all the way to Pueblo.. where the first dam is located. The next place it's dammed is at John Martin Reservoir, both of which are also State Parks. I fished, panned for gold, watched rafters, and just relaxed at several of the park sites.. which are many... and no.. I didn't find any gold (but it was fun never-the-less).I should say if you want a town to stay in, instead of camping or sleeping in your car.. then use Salida. I want to review that town.. as I visited every town of any size and must say that it is absolutely the best town to visit and live in.. in Colorado.. well, at least for me and my personality. just saying.they have a great webpage for the location of sites along the river.. so check it out. Also, if you google "Arkansas River Rafting tours" .. you will get plenty of hits of who will be of service.have fun.. this is one park you will always remember. And ignore the listing above, where it give AR as the state location.. the 81201 zip is for Salida.