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.
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.
Southern Colorado is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling adventures. Whether you’re seeking the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Colorado national parks or the excitement of unique tourist attractions, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable Southern Colorado road trip filled with fun things to do. All of these attractions are located just an hour’s drive from the Royal Gorge / Canon City KOA Holiday campground and our staff can provide brochures and booking assistance upon request!
Colorado Springs is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it a perfect day-trip destination from Canon City. Whether you're seeking natural wonders, historical landmarks, or thrilling adventures, Colorado Springs has something for everyone
Garden of the Gods is a free city park and a natural wonderland featuring towering red rock formations. The park offers numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and guided tours. The Garden of the Gods Visitor Center provides educational exhibits, theater presentations, and information on the region’s geology and history. Don’t miss the Garden of the Gods Trading Post, where you can find unique souvenirs, Native American jewelry, and a café serving delicious refreshments.
One of the most iconic Southern Colorado tourist attractions is Pikes Peak, America's Mountain. The Pikes Peak Highway offers a scenic and thrilling drive to the summit at 14,110 feet. Open daily with varying hours depending on the season, this route promises stunning vistas and memorable experiences. At the summit, you can visit the newly renovated Pikes Peak Summit House, which provides breathtaking panoramic views, a visitor center, and a café where you can enjoy world-famous high-altitude donuts.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a unique and exciting attraction located on the slopes of Cheyenne Mountain. As America’s only mountain zoo, it offers a unique opportunity to get up close with over 750 animals from around the world. The zoo features various interactive exhibits, including the chance to feed giraffes, ride a historic carousel, and enjoy breathtaking views of Colorado Springs.
Known as “The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado,” Seven Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls located in a stunning natural box canyon. Visitors can hike along well-maintained trails to witness the falls from various vantage points or take an elevator to the Eagle’s Nest viewing platform for a spectacular view. The area also features the 1858 restaurant, offering a fine dining experience amidst the beauty of nature.
The United States Air Force Academy is both an academic institution and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the campus and its impressive Cadet Chapel, which is renowned for its stunning modern architecture. The visitor center provides exhibits on the Academy’s history and mission, and guests can witness the daily life of cadets through guided tours and events.
Colorado Springs offers a wealth of attractions that are perfect for family outings. From interactive museums to festive theme parks, there are plenty of fun things to do in Southern Colorado that will delight visitors of all ages.
For a magical experience, visit the Northpole - Home of Santa’s Workshop, a Christmas-themed amusement park open from mid-May through December. Admission includes unlimited rides, shows, and attractions. Special rates are available for large families and tour groups. Enjoy festive rides, meet Santa, and explore the enchanting village filled with holiday cheer.
Experience the Old West at Flying W Ranch, where you can enjoy a chuckwagon supper and an original Western show. The ranch is open from October through May, offering a unique blend of entertainment and history. Reservations are necessary, and you can call (719) 598-4000 to secure your spot.
Manitou Springs, located just a short drive from Colorado Springs, is a charming town rich in history and culture. Its unique attractions provide a fascinating glimpse into the past and the opportunity to experience the area's vibrant heritage.
Just a short drive from Colorado Springs, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a unique glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who built these ancient structures over 800 years ago. Visitors can explore the well-preserved dwellings, climb ladders into the rooms, and learn about the culture and history of the indigenous people through informative exhibits and a museum.
The historic town of Manitou Springs is a charming destination filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and natural mineral springs. It’s also home to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the world’s highest cog railway, which takes passengers on a scenic journey to the summit of Pikes Peak. This 3-hour round trip offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience. Advanced reservations are recommended, and Royal Gorge KOA staff can assist with bookings
For an underground adventure, head to Cave of the Winds. This historic cave system offers guided tours that delve into its fascinating geological formations. The Discovery Tour is perfect for families, providing an easy walk through well-lit paths, while the Lantern Tour offers a more adventurous experience, exploring the cave by the light of handheld lanterns. For thrill-seekers, the cave also features the Wind Walker Challenge Course, a three-story obstacle course perched on the edge of a cliff.
Cripple Creek, a historic gold mining town, offers a wealth of family and adult fun. With its rich mining history, fascinating museums, and lively casinos, Cripple Creek is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the region's heritage and excitement.
Cripple Creek, a historic gold mining town, offers a wealth of family and adult fun. Visit old mine sites, take a tour of a state-of-the-art gold mining operation, and explore local museums. The Narrow Gauge Railway provides a scenic ride through the area, while the casinos offer a chance to try your luck.
Descend 1,000 feet underground on the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour. This family-friendly tour requires no steps or climbing, making it accessible to all ages. Discover the history of gold mining and see real mining equipment in action. Tours operate daily starting at 9 a.m.
The Pikes Peak Heritage Center at Cripple Creek is a state-of-the-art interpretive center where you can learn about the region’s rich history. Interactive exhibits and displays provide insight into the area’s gold mining past and the lives of the people who lived there.
Located in nearby Victor, the Lowell Thomas Museum honors the famous journalist and broadcaster who grew up in the area. The museum features outstanding mining exhibits, historical artifacts, and memorabilia from Thomas’s illustrious career.
Southern Colorado is renowned for its scenic drives and auto tours showcasing its stunning landscapes and historical routes. These tours provide a perfect way to explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of Southern Colorado.
The Gold Belt Auto Tour is a National Back Country Byway that follows historic travel routes connecting Canon City and Florence to Cripple Creek, Victor, and Florissant. This scenic drive offers spectacular views and insights into Colorado’s gold rush history. Note that some portions of the tour are restricted, and trailers, campers, buses, and motor homes may not be able to travel these roads. Allow two hours to travel each route, and KOA staff can help with directions.
Enjoy spectacular mountain scenery on the Wet Mountain Valley Auto Tour, a 104-mile journey from Canon City. The valley sits between the Sangre de Cristo and Wet Mountain Ranges, offering breathtaking views. Take a side trip on Highway 165 to visit Bishop’s Castle, a unique and whimsical stone castle built by one man over several decades.
Discover the beauty of the Arkansas River and the 14,000-foot peaks of the Collegiate Mountain Range on the Arkansas Headwaters Auto Tour. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area runs 148 miles west of the Pueblo Reservoir, offering abundant recreational activities such as white-water rafting, fishing, and hiking.
Cañon City itself is home to the spectacular Royal Gorge, a natural wonder and one of the most impressive Southern Colorado attractions. The Royal Gorge Bridge, one of the highest suspension bridges in the world, spans the canyon and offers breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including zip-lining, gondola rides, and walking across the bridge to experience the awe-inspiring depth of the gorge.
For a unique perspective on the Royal Gorge, hop aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. This scenic train ride takes you through the heart of the gorge, offering stunning views of the Arkansas River and the dramatic cliffs. The train features comfortable seating, delicious dining options, and informative narration about the area’s history.
Nestled in the heart of Southern Colorado, the Royal Gorge / Canon City KOA Holiday campground offers a central location perfect for exploring many amazing destinations. Within just an hour’s drive, you can immerse yourself in a wide array of Southern Colorado attractions and destinations. From the stunning landscapes and historic sites of Colorado Springs to the gold mining adventures in Cripple Creek and the rich natural history at Florissant Fossil Beds, there’s no shortage of excitement within reach. Conveniently positioned near these top attractions, our campground is your gateway to unforgettable experiences across Southern Colorado. Book your stay with us today and start your adventure in the heart of Colorado!
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
