Dark Sky River Lodge

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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: 06/29/2026

Rates

RV Sites

Options	Starting Daily	Starting Weekly	Starting Monthly
Full Hookup 30 / 50 AMP	$65.00	$349.00	$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.