Entire home

Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access

Property grounds
Property grounds
Exterior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
TV, fireplace, books

Reviews

9.6 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 7162 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Howard, CO
  • SteamPlant Theater and Event Center
    19 min drive
  • Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center
    21 min drive
  • Monarch Ski Area
    44 min drive
  • Salida, CO (SLT-Harriet Alexander Field)
    24 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Howard

When you a stay at this vacation home in Howard, you'll be on the waterfront, just steps from Arkansas River and Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. .This vacation home is 12.8 mi (20.6 km) from Cotopaxi City Park and 12.9 mi (20.8 km) from Riverside Park.

What's nearby

  • Riverside Park - 18 min drive - 20.9 km
  • SteamPlant Theater and Event Center - 19 min drive - 21.2 km
  • Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center - 21 min drive - 23.0 km
  • Mt. Shavano Fish Hatchery - 22 min drive - 23.7 km
  • Monarch Ski Area - 44 min drive - 53.6 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Riverside Cafe - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Susie's Out West Cafe Howard - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Susie's Out-West Cafe & Steakhouse - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Prickly Pear Lounge - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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).

>AIR CONDITIONING. Excellent A/C swamp cooler cools entire home.

>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.
Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned vacation home, which features a fireplace. There's a private patio. A kitchen is outfitted with a refrigerator, an oven, and a stovetop. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected.
Enjoy recreation amenities such as a spa tub or take in the view from a garden.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property manager

Lora & Mary

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels
  • Beach sunloungers

Ski

  • Snowboarding and cross-country skiing nearby

Pool/Spa

  • A hot tub

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Kitchen island
  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Blender

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathrooms

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bath or shower
  • Towels provided
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Toilet paper
  • Hairdryer

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Dining room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • TV with cable/satellite service
  • Games
  • Books

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer
  • Near a laundromat

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On the river
  • On the waterfront
  • In the mountains
  • In a rural location
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Sledging nearby
  • Swimming nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 1740 sq ft (162 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

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 there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Secluded Riverfront Retreat w/hot tub & private river access Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 106 out of 126 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 126 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 126 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 3 out of 126 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 126 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ron Y.

Liked: Cleanliness
River Rock Retreat
Had a great time ,very relaxing time and good fishing on the Arkansas River.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ryan R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Rest for outdoor adventure
Stayed here after hiking a 14er and then went Mt biking in Salida. Wish we could have stayed longer at the beautiful location!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Carol R., St. Louis, MO

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing
Very nice place. Exceptionally clean. Communication with Lora was excellent.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura S.

Liked: Cleanliness
We Can't Wait to Return!
This property was in the perfect location - love the privacy, peacefulness, grounds and close access to the river. It was a beautiful home with plenty of room for 6 adults (especially in the kitchen). The beds were comfortable and the house was very well-equipped with everything you might need. Loved the fresh flowers in the outdoor pots, made it feel extra homey and inviting. We can't wait to return! Owners were very responsive and nice to work with, too!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amber W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family Fun
We love staying here. The home is so peaceful and clean. We love the river access and proximity to fun activities. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

joseph m., 3 homes

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic
This was great location a great home. Excellent owner, who is easy to communicate with peaceful clean everything you wanted on the river and great fly fishing for trout. I highly recommend and we will be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anna V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Howard House on the Arkansas River
We all enjoyed the house very much. Wish we had a view of the river through the bushes! Needed assistance on how to use the televisions. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lee M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great house and location
Staying here was quite possibly the most relaxing vacation I have had in a long time. The property and river frontage is amazing and we enjoyed the view from the deck. I recommend this property.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly D., Arvada, co

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing!
What an amazing property! The home and location are pristine. Get for any type of get away. The property managers were super easy to communicate. They were even kind enough to acknowledge my birthday! We will definitely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

RILEY H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Rustic getaway
Great location on the river.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Chris B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great option near Salida
Great property near Salida with great views. House is older but well maintained and clean. It’s well stocked with accommodations. River front is great for fishing. Pictures appear as if the property is secluded but there are homes adjacent and on the other side of the river. Neighbors seem friendly.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kayleen P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Sibling Get Together
We stayed just one night but the home was so well stocked with convenient supplies and things a longer stay would have been fantastic.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amber W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful scenery
We stayed here to host a small wedding ceremony and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Lora was quick to respond and very accommodating. Staying in the canyon was a dream.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Great riverside retreat!
This was a great vacation. We were able to access a large section of the river.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ray S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy River retreat
We absolutely loved this property
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

4/10 Poor

Lauren E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Big Letdown once arrived
Very old home that had musty smells. Back patio door lock didn’t work so track pole was the safety feature. House was very clean but everything about the house was old. Definitely would not return. Might be okay for fishermen or people that just needed a place to crash.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pastora G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect retreat
This lovely house by the river is a perfect retreat. Spacious, beautiful view, outstandingly equipped kitchen/house with comfort and wholesome fun in mind. Great hot tub, too. Love it! Always easy to communicate and arrange with the owner if needed.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Evan

Travelled with family, Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was in good driving distance. Skiing, snowmobiling and towns. Loved the area
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniel B., Albuquerque

Liked: Cleanliness
Riverfront
This property was great. It's cozy and quiet. The carpet was in excellent shape which is not always the case for rental properties. Bravo to the owners for not charging a cleaning fee. We fly-fished for 4 days mostly below the property in the canyon sections. The fishing was great in late winter with dry flies and nymphs. The private section of river in front of the property has a lot of fish and a large flat area to hang out. It's a great place to learn to cast a fly rod if you're interested. I'd love to come back in the summer or fall.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

MONICA I.

Liked: Cleanliness
Serenity!!
Wonderful property, very clean, very well stocked. So peaceful and beautiful. Whether you need a weekend R&R or to sit in the hot tub surrounded by mountain views to soak after an active day in hiking, biking, etc., this is your place!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Greg T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun weekend
Had a great time hanging out in town and visiting with friends. Great private location!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nathan R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful stay on the river
We really enjoyed our stay. Can't wait to come back in the summer
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family Christmas
This property was just as it was described. We loved the outdoorsy feel that was still close to town and attractions. The view of the mountains while sitting in the hot tub were phenomenal. For a family of 7 this was a great house with lots of rooms and amenities to keep everyone happy!!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Traci S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Sienna 18 Bday!
Everything was so great at this Vrbo! We had a great time, the home was comfortable and we had enough room to spread out and then come together for meals, hot tubbing, walks to the river, movie night and board games! We would love to come a second time! 💜 thanks for the hospitality and opening up your home. My daughter and other kids will remember this trip forever.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Yasmin A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent stay!
The property was gorgeous along with the location. Would love to stay here again - thanks for everything!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023