Salida / Mt. Shavano KOA

The Great Outdoors

Salida/Mt. Shavano KOA is surrounded by sheer wilderness; opportunities for recreational fun are endless. Between the Gunnison National Forest and Pike and San Isabel National Forests, there are well over two million acres of mountains and valleys for adventurers to explore. Hike, bike, horseback ride, or ATV on hundreds of miles of trails that spider out from various trailheads dotting southwestern Colorado. Sheer, bare rock cliffs rise high overhead, and rock climbers can often be spotted crawling across its face, protected from certain death by only a thin rope.Some explorers enjoy searching for waterfalls when camping at Salida/Mt. Shavano KOA. There are thousands of waterfalls that make its appearance only after the spring snowmelt occurs. A rare few persist year-round. Agnes Vailles Waterfall, a few miles north of Nathrop, CO, is one of the better-known falls in Gunnison National Forest.Whitewater rafting is an activity enjoyed by many, particularly after the snowmelt transforms rivers into raging, roiling currents. Bouncing over rapids, past large boulder obstacles, and averting whirlpools is a pulse-pounding thrill that many adventurers seek. There are many guide agencies that will help people navigate these perilous challenges safely.Continue death-defying feats by attempting to achieve summit on one of the dozen 14-ers that surround Salida/Mt. Shavano KOA. Each 14-er peak poses different challenges for people to overcome, and depending on the terrain and weather, some peaks can be more difficult than others.

Exploring the Area

Many small mountain towns scattered across southwestern Colorado were founded during the height of the Gold Rush era (around 1858), and several have retained their historical architecture and aesthetic. If one were to ignore the presence of modern amenities like automobiles and electric street lights, visiting these towns can feel like stepping back into time. Traveling from town to town in search of historic charm is a breeze in a rental motorhome.Salida claims to be the birthplace of whitewater rafting in the United States (it was already well established in Europe) and founded the first whitewater rafting race in 1949. Called FiBark, the annual race has evolved into a festival that draws tens of thousands of spectators and attendants. The event also is a good way to find local crafters, artists, and other local businesses from neighboring towns. It’s usually held in mid-June.Hot springs are evidence of long-dormant volcanoes that once lined western Colorado. Hit the road in an RV rental and find your favorite spring to relax in. Nathrop and Wellsville, CO, both have hot springs that are open to the public.Slip ton a motorhome rental and head up to one of the neighboring towns like Poncha Springs or Buena Vista for charming retail stores, quaint bistros, and breweries with delicious craft beer. Search for the perfect gift or memorabilia to take home to help you remember the perfect RV camping experience in Colorado.Far from the bright light pollution that lingers over large cities, the stars in the night sky are bright and dense. In summers, the famed Milky Way streams across the night sky. Witness this glorious sight by going RV camping at Salida/Mt. Shavano KOA.