Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
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Internet reservations are currently not available for this KOA: Royal Gorge / Canon City KOA Holiday
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Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
From Hwy 50, 8 miles west of Canon City: Take Royal Gorge Exit , Proceed 1/4 mile south.
Do not use GPS. Follow the signs for the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and you can't miss us. Please call for directions.
Canon City, Colorado, is an incredible whitewater rafting destination thanks to its spectacular views and wide range of rapids. The Arkansas River and Royal Gorge Canyon offer excitement for all skill levels, from relaxing rides to thrilling journeys. Understanding the area's rapids, ideal rafting seasons and top rafting companies is the first step to planning an unforgettable trip.
Canon City whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River is an incredible experience because it runs through a stunning corridor featuring majestic red canyons and views of the Rocky Mountains. Adventurers and thrill seekers appreciate the Arkansas River for its exhilarating rapids and unique challenges, but it also features milder sections for beginners.
Planning and preparation with this guide to rafting in Canon City can help you make the most of your rafting trip. Understanding how the seasons affect rapids, what to expect from each class of rapids and where to find the best guides is an excellent starting point.
You can raft in Colorado during the spring, summer and fall seasons, but each time of the year offers different advantages. Consider each season's pros and cons before planning your trip:
Water levels often increase in May and June when the Rocky Mountains' accumulated snow melts and flows down into the rivers. The increased levels can cause higher, more powerful rapids, making for an extra exhilarating experience perfect for adrenaline seekers. Some whitewater rafting guides offer fewer trips throughout the day since spring whitewater rafting often brings in smaller crowds. You can expect warm daytime temperatures, but the mornings may be crisp.
June, July and August are popular months for whitewater rafting near Canon City because of the bright, sunny weather. Due to this popularity, you can expect more crowds in rafting areas during the summer. Early morning is the best time for rafting during the summer months because you can expect cooler temperatures and beat the crowds. Mid-morning through mid-afternoon hours are when the sun is the brightest, so apply extra sunscreen if you choose this timeframe for your adventure.
September, October and November often provide a more relaxing experience than earlier months. Water levels and speed decrease, giving you more time to enjoy the ride and scenery. Fall is the perfect rafting season if you enjoy cooler temperatures and foliage. It's also the ideal time for beginners or families looking for easier rides because waves tend to be gentler.
Each class is based on how many obstacles a rapid features and how challenging it is to maneuver around them. When you plan a rafting trip, you can choose from the following levels based on your experience and comfort level:
Class I-II rapids are ideal for beginners and families because they feature smaller waves and gentler currents than more advanced rapids. When you embark on a class I rapid, you can expect fast-moving water with zero obstacles. A class II rapid features some small waves, easily maneuverable obstacles and the opportunity to try some cool moves. The following are notable class I-II rapids in the Arkansas River's Bighorn Sheep Canyon section:
If you have a little experience rafting and feel ready to try the next level, you may want to try class III rapids. Class III rapids are mostly straightforward and feature small waves with occasional obstacles. You may encounter small drops, irregular waves, rocks and narrow passages requiring experienced maneuvering. Class III rapids are ideal for beginners but require guidance.
Class IV rapids are more challenging than classes I-III and are better suited for intermediate or advanced rafters. A class IV rapid features turbulent waves, boiling eddies, large rocks and tight passages. If you're looking for an exhilarating excursion that requires quick thinking and precise maneuvering, a class IV rapid is the perfect challenge level.
The following str class III and IV rapids in the Royal Gorge section of the Arkansas River:
Class V rapids offer the highest thrills and are ideal for the most experienced rafters. A class V rapid features the highest, most unpredictable waves and strongest currents. On a class V rapid, you may encounter obstacles such as large rocks, holes, steep chutes, strainers and eddies.
Before embarking on a class V rapid, you should be in excellent physical shape and have extensive experience. Embarking on a class V rapid requires more preparation and safety measures than class I-IV.
Popular class V rapids in the Royal Gorge include Sunshine Falls and Sledgehammer Rapid.
Guided whitewater rafting tours can be safer, more convenient ways to experience the Arkansas River. A rafting guide has the necessary expertise, skills and local knowledge to take you through rushing waters and exciting obstacles in some of the area's best rapids.
The following guided tours offer incredible experiences in and around Canon City:
When you book a guided tour, your guide typically provides transportation to the rafting launch site and necessary gear, such as a wetsuit, paddle, life jacket and helmet. Before starting your trip, you will likely complete a pre-rafting orientation that covers paddling commands and safety instructions such as what to do if you fall in the water.
Guides are highly trained to confidently navigate rapids, avoid hazards and respond to challenges or emergencies if necessary, so you can rest assured that you are in good hands for the entire trip.
Embarking on a self-guided rafting trip is only safe if you have extensive training and experience. If you are a seasoned rafter looking to explore the Arkansas River, the closest access point from Canon City is the Parkdale Recreational Launch site. You can reach this site 12 miles west of Canon City off Colorado US Highway 50.
Rafting in Colorado is an electrifying experience, whether you embark on a gentle class I-II rapids tour or an exhilarating class V excursion. Royal Gorge / Canon City KOA is a fantastic basecamp for your rafting adventures. You can have an unforgettable trip with close proximity to rafting centers and river access points, convenient amenities and fun recreational activities.
Royal Gorge / Canon City KOA is nestled in the foothills of Colorado's Rocky Mountains, providing breathtaking views. You can spend your day navigating the thrilling twists and turns of the Arkansas River and end your night relaxing around a cozy campfire.
Reserve a stay at KOA to start your Colorado rafting adventure.
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