What is Canon City known for?

Canon City, Colorado is best known as the gateway to the Royal Gorge - home of America's highest suspension bridge. The city is also famous for world-class whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, zipline adventures, Red Canyon Park, historic downtown architecture, and abundant Colorado sunshine.

What are the best things to do in Canon City Colorado?

Top things to do in Canon City, CO include: visiting the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, riding the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, exploring Red Canyon Park, driving the Phantom Canyon Road, zipline tours, hiking at Temple Canyon Park, visiting the Museum of Colorado Prisons, and dining in the historic downtown.

Is Canon City near Denver?

Canon City is approximately 115 miles (about 2 hours) southwest of Denver via US-50 and I-25. It is located in Fremont County in south-central Colorado. Colorado Springs is the nearest major city, about 45 miles north of Canon City.

What outdoor activities are available in Canon City?

Canon City offers exceptional outdoor activities including: Class III-V whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, rock climbing at Shelf Road, hiking at Red Canyon Park and Temple Canyon, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, zipline tours over the Royal Gorge, scenic drives through Phantom Canyon and Oak Creek Grade, and stargazing in the dark skies above Fremont County.

Dispersed camping along the Arkansas River

Photo: BLM

BLM and Arkansas Headwaters Camping near Canon City

lodging$

Camping on Bureau of Land Management land around Canon City, managed from the BLM Royal Gorge Field Office on East Main Street.

The Bureau of Land Management manages the public land around Canon City from its Royal Gorge Field Office at 3028 E. Main St., open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4:30pm (closed federal holidays), phone (719) 269-8500. Ask there for maps and the current camping and fire rules before you go. The BLM runs The Bank campground north of Canon City, part of the Shelf Road Recreation Area, a well-known sport climbing area. Along the river itself, Colorado Parks and Wildlife says the 10-mile Parkdale to Canon City section of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area has no developed campgrounds and no dispersed camping areas. Dispersed camping is allowed on federal land outside the recreation area, and it is first come, first served. Facilities are basic or none, so bring water and pack out everything you bring in.

Amenities

BLM LandThe Bank CampgroundFirst Come, First ServedPack In, Pack Out

Sources

Last updated: September 23, 2026

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