Arkansas Headwaters State Park

Don’t be fooled by the name, as this park is not in Arkansas! Located in Colorado, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a gorgeous slice of nature that features pawsome scenery and the mighty Arkansas River. If your pup wants to immerse themselves in Mother Nature, this is the place to be!

Like the park’s name suggests, the star of the show is the Arkansas River, one of the nation’s most pupular destinations for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The recreation area surrounds the 152 mile river as it runs from Leadville through the Sawatch Mountain Range and down to Pueblo. The mild and rugged terrain creates mellow Class I and II sections, all the way up to Class IV and Class V rapids. It’s a rafter’s dream!

Chances are your doggo would rather be on dry land. Furtunately, the park has furrific hiking trails. All of the trails originate from either the campgrounds or the day use areas. At Hayden Meadows Recreation Site, you and your pup can stroll along the boardwalks that run through the wetlands. Barbara Whipple Trail and Four Mile trail system can be accessed from the Collegiate Peaks Group Picnic Area. If your pup wants to watch some of the whitewater rafters, follow Hecla Junction Campground’s short path down to the river overlook. Several other trails are available. Play it safe and check a map before heading off on your adventure.

Your pup will love this place so much, they will want to stay a night or two. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area has seven campgrounds. It is recommended that you make reservations during the peak summer season. The park is also a prime fishing location and ideal for biking, rock climbing, and picnicking. Wherever you go in the park, make sure you to have clean-up bags and pick up after your pup, and always have plenty of water on hand.

No bones about it, your pup will love this place!