One of the perks about running in the High Lonesome 100 is getting to spend a weekend in the wonderful Arkansas River Valley. It's a magical place in Colorado, and the possibilities are endless. From free camping to luxurious lodges, below are a sampling of some of our favorite places to stay
Be warned though, this is one of Colorado's most popular spots. Lodging fills up quickly, and campgrounds are usually full. Make your plans accordingly, last thing you want to do is be bed-less the night before you run 100 miles.
PARKING OR CAMPING AT THE START/FINISH AREA
Tent and RV camping is allowed at the Start/Finish area with reservations. Spots are available for $15 a night and includes access to restrooms and trash disposal, but there is no water, so bring your own.
DISPERSED CAMPING
The are dozens of areas with dispersed camping options all along the course. Dispersed areas don't have bathrooms or filtered water, so it's a primitive experience. If you're looking to keep costs at a full minimum, this is your best bet.
If you are going this route, then please be sure to follow a few rules:
Minimize your impact. Use existing areas and fire rings. Park on durable surfaces, and clean up thoroughly when you leave.
Practice LNT rules, so bury your waste, pack out your trash, don't damage vegetation, keep your noises down, etc.
Bring your own water, or a filter system. Don't camp, cook, or defecate near water sources.
This is bear country, so use practice best practices for predators and foods.
Official area information can be found here. Info is about half way down (search for "dispersed camping"). Popular areas are around Browns Creek Trailhead and the Raspberry Gulch aid station. For more information, please email the RD (contact info).
OFFICIAL CAMPGROUNDS
There are over a dozen state or federally owned campgrounds that are close to the race. Multiple privately owned options are also available. The public campgrounds will provide a more traditional camping experience, whereas the private will have more amenities (showers, wifi, ect). These spots go quickly!
Near the Start:
Bootleg Campground (walk-in only, 10 minute drive + hike time) - no reservations
Mount Princeton Campground (5 miles from start, 10 minute drive) - Reservation Link
Chalk Lake Campground (5.5 miles from start, 13 minute drive) - Reservation Link
Cascade Campground (6 miles from start, 15 minute drive) - Reservation Link
Iron City Campground (13 miles from start, 30 minute drive) - no reservations
On the Course:
Cottonwood Lake Campground - (no reservations)
Angel of Shavano Campground - (no reservations, except for group site)
Near Towns:
Turtle Rock Campground (BLM/Free, popular with mechanized users)
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area - (multiple campgrounds, busy)
General Area:
Monarch Park Campground - (no reservations)
Railroad Bridge campground - part of Arkansas Headwaters Rec Area (Reservation Link)
Clear Creek Reservoir Campground (Colorado Parks and Wildlife area, dispersed spots)
Private Campgrounds
HOTELS AND MOTELS
There are plenty of hotels and such in both Salida and Buena Vista. A quick Google search will reveal most of them, but below are some quick links to get you started. This area fills up quickly, so don't wait until the last minute. Prices also go up the more spots are booked, so sooner is better.
CABINS, AIR BNB, AND VACATION RENTALS
Buena Vista and Salida have a multitude of options for more niche lodging. There are many rentals available on CR 162 (near Nathrop) that are very close to the starting area. Again, a Google search is your best bet, but here are some links to get you started.
VRBO:
Air BNB
Resorts: