Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 7
Popular amenities
Spa pool on site
Onsite parking available
Kitchen
Washing machine
Air-conditioning
Barbecue
Explore the area
Howard, CO
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Place, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
1 min walk
Riverside Park
Place, Riverside Park
22 min drive
Monarch Ski Area
Place, Monarch Ski Area
55 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 7)
Bedroom 1
1 Double Futon, 1 Single Bed and 1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed and 1 Single Bed
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 2
Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access
Welcome to The River Rock Retreat, where you’ll recharge your life & create a memorable vacation on the river!
Located in the picturesque town of Howard, Colorado, The River Rock Retreat offers world class fishing on the gold medal Arkansas River, with a 1,000 feet of private river frontage, stunning Sangre de Cristo mountain peak views, endless exploration on public land adjacent to the home, and lush landscape with old growth trees on a two tier setting - a nature lovers paradise!
Bright and spacious open floor plan home with 2 oversized bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, sleeps 7 comfortably with room to spare. Views in every direction + easy access to the lively town of Salida, Colorado and all the area has to offer.
Only 14 miles east of Salida, with art, festivals, shopping, hiking, swimming, concerts, bars and restaurants, theatre, golf, ATV/UTV rentals, and more nearby. A gorgeous 41.6 mile drive down river to enjoy the adventures at The Royal Gorge, and 46.4 miles to Canon City with its rich history, festivals, and even more shopping and dining opportunities.
The River Rock Retreat offers…
>2+ acre 2 tier setting with old-growth shade trees and native landscape with ~1,000 feet of private Arkansas River Access. Private guest access only, no public access (steps take you down to the river).
>Clean and spacious 1970's home with 1,740 sq. ft., open floorpan, views from every window, and designer furnishings, finishes, appliances, and linens (home is on the upper tier of the property).
>2 oversized bedrooms with one king bed and one twin bed in each (and a twin cot in one of the bedrooms for additional sleeping), private glass slider (entry/exit) out to front patio, views of rock outcroppings and garden, and large closets.
>Wrap around deck with views of the Arkansas River, Sangre de Cristo mountain range, BLM rock/cliff outcroppings, garden, and wildlife (depending on the fullness of the trees, you may not be able to see the river from the deck).
>Fully stocked kitchen with eat-in island & granite counter tops.
>Large dining room with windows to take in the river and mountains views, connected to the wrap around deck and hot tub.
>Full-Size Washer & Dryer. Large laundry room with door to deck overlooking river and in-ground fire pit.
>Sunken living room with 65" HDTV flat screen TV & satellite channels and marble surround wood burning fireplace.
>Free internet. Free WiFi.
>Hot Springs Spa Therapeutic Hot Tub. Listen to sounds of the river in your private spa. Cleaned and sanitized by a spa professional prior to each guest upon arrival.
>Propane grill to cook your favorite meals while enjoying the lush landscape.
>Fire Pit with a view. In-ground fire pit to enjoy views in every direction (firewood NOT provided, can be purchased at your nearest convenience store).
>Multiple outdoor seating areas that take advantage of the outstanding views, peaceful setting, and sounds of nature.
>1,000’s of acres to explore directly from property onto BLM (public land); hiking, mountain biking, dirt biking, ATV/UTVing, and more.
>Secluded and quiet location. The river is between property and highway, the trees provide a feeling of privacy and seclusion (neighbors can be seen across the river while at the river and when near the house, depending on the fullness of the trees, you may not be able to see the river).
>Certified Wildlife Habitat from the National Wildlife Foundation. The lower tier, adjacent to the river, is a Certified Wildlife Habitat. This distinction states that the property has food, water, cover, and places to raise young, along with sustainable practices to ensure soil, air, and water stay healthy and clean.
>Vacation Ready! Well-appointed kitchen, towels, linens, soaps, toilet paper, trash bags, and coffee, everything you need (aside from a swim suit and food) to make you feel at home and get the most out of your vacation.
Endless adventures in the surrounding area including, rock climbing, UTV/ATVing, hiking, horseback riding, hot springs, swimming, golfing, rafting, fishing, stand up paddle boarding, shopping, festivals, The Royal Gorge, Canon City, The Great Sand Dunes, Browns Canyon, Buena Vista, Leadville, stunning drives over Independence Pass, day trips to Crested Butte and other mountain towns, and so much more.
THE most level/grassy/shaded ARKANSAS RIVERFRONT vacation rental in the area (no public access), at the end of a private drive. Gold Medal Fishing. Fish from your own private island. BLM on 2 sides. Hike, bike, fish, swim, raft, float, ride, directly from property. Far enough away to escape the crowds, yet close enough to experience adventures in every direction. Year round easy and level access.
Your retreat awaits, book today!
…
All guests are responsible for following the House Rules and Check Out Instructions and accepting the terms of the Rental Policies prior to check-in. Owner has security cameras in place, on the exterior of the home, tampering with, adjusting, or messing with cameras is not permitted. NO PETS. Over occupancy of guests and unauthorized pets will result in $150 fee being charged to credit card on file. Failure to follow House Rules, including but not limited to, driving a MAXIMUM SPEED of 10 MPH on Mustang Trail, will result in cancellation at full cost to the guest.
This home is rented for personal vacation use only. Any other use including large gatherings or parties is not allowed UNLESS PRIOR APPROVAL is given. Renters must abide by all rental terms and policies, as well as all local applicable property covenants, restrictions, regulations and laws. Any evidence of smoking, use of firearms, driving ATV's/UTV's/dirt bikes/etc. in the driveway or on the private road, unapproved over-occupancy, unauthorized pets, damage resulting from violation of rental policies, and/or excessive mess may result in charges up to $3,000.00 to the Guest's credit card on file, as authorized by Guest's approval of the terms of the House Rules, Check Out Instructions, and all other rental Information.
No refunds will be issued due to weather conditions.
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
PRIOR approval & additional fees WILL APPLY
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
10 MPH ON MUSTANG TRAIL. No off-road vehicles on Private Drive, trailer your toys to your destination - please respect the neighbors, DRIVE SLOW!
No loud noises of any kind after 9 PM. The home is very peaceful and in a quiet location, please keep it that way.
No fireworks of any kind.
No unauthorized guests.
No unauthorized pets on the property.
YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR ANY RULES/INSTRUCTIONS NOT FOLLOWED
Important information
You need to know
Property # 2645065vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 20
Note from host: PRIOR approval & additional fees WILL APPLY
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Howard
Located in Howard, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Art Matters Gallery & Studio and SteamPlant Theater and Event Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Wood's High Mountain Distillery and Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Visitor Center. Rocky Mountain Mini Golf and Mt. Shavano Fish Hatchery are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the ice skating and sledging.
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
Riverside Park - 22 min drive - 25.0 km
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Visitor Center - 22 min drive - 24.6 km
Salida Golf Club - 23 min drive - 25.0 km
Monarch Ski Area - 55 min drive - 65.4 km
Restaurants
Dusty Rose Roadhouse - 5 min drive
Howard’s Cafe - 5 min drive
Riverview Cafe - 5 min drive
Eggie Acres - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access?
As of 10 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access on 1 Sept 2026 start from AU$679, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access located?
Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps away from Arkansas River and Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. Cotopaxi City Park and Riverside Park are also within 16 miles (25 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We love this house. This was our second stay here … it’s cozy and comfortable and the hot tub and river are amazing. Thank you for letting us stay here!!!
Jessica C.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Apr 2026
Thank you for choosing our home for your getaway for a second time! I’m so happy you love the house, hot tub, and river. You’re welcome back anytime, we appreciate you! Thanks again.
The home had more amenities than most. The hot tub was perfectly clean. The river access was amazing. Even caught a fish with a fishing pole provided (catch and release).
j b.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jan 2026
Thank you for taking the time to leave your amazing 5-star review! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the hot tub, fishing, and found the house had more amenities than most. Thank you again for being wonderful guests, we welcome you back anytime!
Such a nice relaxing stay at a great Colorado getaway. We had a wonderful time.
Drew H.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2025
Thank you for taking the time to leave your awesome 5-star review! We’re glad you were able to relax and soak in the beauty of Colorado at our home. Thank you for being great guests, we welcome you back anytime. Thanks again!
This place is perfect for a girls’ getaway. It offers breathtaking views and a hot tub for relaxation. It couldn’t be a more ideal place to stay. Plus, it’s close to some local towns for shopping.
Akeyra B.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Nov 2025
Thank you for your outstanding 5-star review! I’m so happy you found the location, views, hot tub ideal for your girls getaway. Thank you again, we’d love to have you back anytime!
Peggy, thank you so much for your great 5-star review! I’m so happy you felt the property is a great secluded getaway. You’re welcome back anytime. Thanks again, Lora
The house was beautiful and nicely decorated. It is an older home but very comfortable. We loved the location! River access and at the end of the road, so fairly private.
Dee B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2025
Thank you for your wonderful 5-star review! Yes, the home is older, but we’re glad your found it beautiful, comfortable, nicely decorated, and that you loved the location. Thank you for being fantastic guests. We welcome you back anytime. Thanks again!
Very peaceful, lots of room, all the needed comforts of home.
Jennifer S.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2025
Thank you for taking the time to write your 5-star review! I’m happy you found the property peaceful, spacious, and had all needed comforts. We’d love to have you back anytime! Thanks again.
Our friends enjoyed this beautiful house and the property! Was perfect for a weekend getaway
Daria M.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Mar 2025
Daria, thank you for your beautiful 5-star review! I’m thrilled you found it to be a perfect weekend getaway with your friends and you enjoyed the home and property. Thank you again for taking the time to leave a fantastic review. We’d love to have you back anytime. -Lora
Check in easy. House clean and well kept. Enjoyed the hot tub and the fire pit out back. Second time using this property, has good fishing access to the Arkansas for my elderly father.
Kyle F.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Aug 2025
Kyle, thank you so much for taking the time to leave your 5-star review! It’s a joy to have you and your family stay with us again and that the river access works so well for your father. You’re welcome back anytime to fish, soak, and unwind (or explore) at the property. Thank you again! Lora
Our stay at the River Rock Retreat was amazing. A nice house with all the amenities and access to the River from the back yard. It offered a secluded feel but still close to neighbors with a perfect view of mountains from the back porch. We would definitely stay here again. Thanks for making our stay great!
Ashley H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 July 2025
Ashley, thank you so much for your beautiful 5-star review! I’m so happy you liked the amenities, access to river, and secluded feel. I love that you had an amazing time! We’d welcome you back anytime! Thanks again, Lora
Great riverfront home. Caught 2 brown trout. Family enjoyed the hike and nice kitchen. Very close to activities in salida as well.
Christopher C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 July 2025
Christopher, thank you so much for taking the time to leave your great 5-star review. I’m so happy your family enjoyed the kitchen, hiking nearby, and you even caught a couple brown trout! We’d love to have you back anytime. Thank you again, Lora.
The visit was so nice. The house had everything and lots of outdoor spaces with gorgeous views.We did find the beds overly soft. Otherwise, all was perfect.Thank you so much.
We rented this as the groomsmen’s house for our daughter’s wedding at Howard Creek Farm. It was the perfect choice. The location is great, close to the venue and importantly, right on the river. The guys caught a crazy number of fish on each trip into the river. The house was clean, comfortable, a nice home. The guys had a great time. Lora and Mary communicate very well and are very kind. We could not have asked for anything more.
Traci P.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to write your lovely 5-star review! We are thrilled it was a perfect place for the groomsmen to stay for your daughters wedding and that they had a great time fishing. I have no doubt it was a gorgeous wedding! Thank you again for choosing our home for this special occasion.
I brought my parents and 2 older sons for a getaway in the mountains. Everything was PERFECT. Excellent location, beautiful property and the host is an exceptional communicator. I would recommend this home to anyone looking for a peaceful mountain retreat.
We really enjoyed our stay. Can't wait to come back in the summer
Nathan R.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jan 2024
Thanks Nathan for leaving your wonderful 5-star review. I’m so happy you enjoyed your stay and plan on returning in the summer. We’d love to have you stay again. Thanks! -Lora
My son and his wife stayed for 2 nights during their honeymoon and loved it! The hot tub was in good working order, the kitchen had everything needed to prepare a meal, the scenery was breathtaking and the neighbors were all courteous. Checking in went perfectly and they enjoyed the biking trails that were close by.
The property was gorgeous along with the location. Would love to stay here again - thanks for everything!
Yasmin A.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Nov 2023
Yasmin, thank you for taking the time to leave an excellent 5-star review! We’re so happy you found the property and location gorgeous. You’re so welcome! We’d love to see you again soon. Thank you, Lora
Thank you Riley for leaving your review. We’re happy you liked the location on the river. Thanks again!
About the host
Hosted by Lora & Mary
Welcome to The River Rock Retreat! We are mother daughter team Mary and Lora, born and raised in the small mountain town of Kremmling, Colorado.
Daughter and granddaughter to an accomplished brick layer and rancher we are no stranger to hard work and have decades of combined experience providing rental services, property management, cleaning, yard work, and ranch life.
We've got big dreams and even bigger hearts. We sincerely hope that every person who walks through our doors feels mountains of joy, rivers of abundance, and sunshine-like peace. Even though the home is older, we hope everyone feels like a king and queen with 5-star amenities, cleanliness, and comfort. We hope you leave your vacation feeling recharged, refueled, and ready for your next adventure.
Why they chose this property
We fell in love with the restful energy, lush scenery, and jaw-dropping views of The River Rock Retreat. Our family has rafted all over Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah and couldn’t resist owning our own piece of riverfront paradise.
Howard is an unexpected gem and never disappoints.
We’re so happy to have you stay at our home, let your adventure begin!
What makes this property unique
THE most private level/grassy/shaded ARKANSAS RIVERFRONT vacation rental in the area (no public access), at the end of a private/dead end road. Gold Medal Fishing. Fish from your own private island. BLM on 3 sides. Hike, bike, fish, swim, raft, float, ride, directly from property. Far enough away to escape the crowds, yet close enough to experience adventures in every direction. Year round easy and level access.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests