Dark Sky River Lodge

Booking Requires Approval

Dark Sky River Lodge will be alerted immediately and will approve your reservation after checking availability.

Save to Favorites

(13) Photos Overview Rates Map (0) Reviews

Overview

10281 US Highway 50, Howard, CO, 81233

Tucked along the Arkansas River just west of Salida, Dark Sky River Lodge offers a peaceful basecamp for travelers exploring the Upper Arkansas Valley.

The property features spacious RV sites with full hookups, cozy cabins, and renovated motel rooms — all surrounded by mountain views and open skies perfect for stargazing. Guests can walk to the on-site café and bar, fish or float the river, and unwind under the stars after a day of adventure. Whether you’re here for rafting, hiking, or a quiet mountain escape, you’ll find comfort, convenience, and classic Colorado charm in Howard’s best-kept secret.

Last Updated: 03/18/2026

Rates

RV Sites

Options	Starting Daily	Starting Weekly	Starting Monthly
Full Hookup 30 / 50 AMP	$45.00	$249.00	$700.00 See More Monthly pricing January -- February -- March -- April -- May -- June -- July -- August -- September -- October -- November -- December -- Monthly base $700.00	Request to Book

Cabins

Options	Starting Daily	Starting Weekly	Starting Monthly
A-Frame Cabin	$200.00	$1,100.00		Request to Book
River Cabin	$125.00	$700.00	$1,400.00 See More Monthly pricing January -- February -- March -- April -- May -- June -- July -- August -- September -- October -- November -- December -- Monthly base $1,400.00	Request to Book
Upper Cabin	$125.00	$700.00	$1,400.00 See More Monthly pricing January -- February -- March -- April -- May -- June -- July -- August -- September -- October -- November -- December -- Monthly base $1,400.00	Request to Book

Rules

Quiet hours

Quiet hours: 10:00 PM – 8:00 AM. // Please respect fellow guests, wildlife, and rural neighbors. // Excessive noise, music, or generator use after hours may result in immediate termination of your stay without refund.

Smoking & Fire Safety

Smoking, vaping, or open flames inside any building is strictly prohibited. // Outdoor smoking only, at least 25 feet away from doors and windows. // No candles, fireworks, or fire pits except in designated areas. // Violation = $300 fine plus cleaning/damage costs.

Pets

Pets are welcome in designated accommodations only. // $50 per stay, covers up to two pets. // Pets must be leashed outdoors, never left unattended in units, and kept off furniture. // Damage or extra cleaning = actual cost plus $100 administrative fee.

Occupancy & Visitors

Motel rooms: 1-bed = max 2 guests, 2-bed = max 4 guests // RV sites: 1 RV + 1 vehicle, max 6 people per site. // Unregistered guests or overnight visitors must be approved in advance. // Over-occupancy = immediate eviction and charge for additional guests.

Check-In / Check-Out

Check-in: 3:00 PM or later // Check-out: by 11:00 AM // Late check-out only with prior approval. Unapproved late departure = $50/hour, up to one night’s rate.

Parking

Park only in designated areas. // No parking on grass, septic fields, or drive lanes. // One vehicle per RV site unless otherwise arranged.

Property Care & Damages

Please report any issues immediately so they can be addressed quickly. // Guests are responsible for all damages or missing items caused by themselves, their party, or their pets. // Charge = cost of repair/replacement plus $100 administrative fee. // Unauthorized use of linens, equipment, or furniture outdoors will be treated as damage.

Prohibited Conduct

No parties, commercial photography, or subleasing. // No illegal activity, weapons discharge, or fireworks on premises. // The Lodge reserves the right to evict guests without refund for any unsafe, destructive, or disrespectful behavior.

Liability & Safety

Guests use all facilities, grounds, and the river at their own risk. // The Owner/Operator assumes no liability for accidents, injury, or loss of property. // Children must be supervised at all times near water or fire.