The Arkansas River has always been the heart of what we do at Monumental Expeditions. It’s where families make memories, friends share adventures, and visitors experience some of Colorado’s most beautiful scenery.
This year, however, the river needs our help.
Colorado is experiencing another dry year, with below-average snowpack in many parts of the state and prolonged hot weather accelerating runoff. While the Arkansas River remains a fantastic place to raft, fish, and explore, drought conditions remind us that our water resources are limited and deserve our respect.
The good news is that protecting the river doesn’t require grand gestures. Small actions from thousands of visitors can make a real difference.
Respect Water Restrictions
Many communities along the Arkansas River are asking residents and visitors to conserve water whenever possible.
Take shorter showers after your adventure, avoid unnecessary water use at campgrounds, and be mindful that every gallon saved helps during dry periods.
Pack Out Every Piece of Trash
Low water exposes more shoreline, gravel bars, and riverbanks. Unfortunately, it also makes litter more visible and more likely to remain in the environment.
Take everything you bring with you. If you spot a piece of trash that isn’t yours, consider picking it up. A cleaner river benefits wildlife, anglers, paddlers, and everyone who enjoys these public lands.
Think Before You Spray
Protecting your skin from Colorado’s intense sun is important, but spray sunscreen doesn’t belong on the river.
Apply sunscreen before arriving at the launch so it has time to absorb into your skin. Avoid spraying around rafts, life jackets, helmets, and other equipment. Overspray can end up on the river, and it also damages and shortens the life of essential safety gear.
Stay on Established River Access Points
During drought, riverbanks become especially vulnerable to erosion.
Use established trails and boat ramps instead of creating new paths. Vegetation along the banks helps hold soil in place, filters runoff, and provides important habitat for wildlife.
Give Wildlife Extra Space
Dry conditions are tough on wildlife, too.
Animals rely on the Arkansas River as a dependable source of water. If you see bighorn sheep, deer, birds, or other wildlife along the river, observe them from a distance and allow them to drink and move freely without disturbance.
Be Fire Aware
One of the biggest threats during drought isn’t on the water. It’s on the surrounding landscape.
Campfires may be restricted or prohibited depending on current conditions. Never toss cigarette butts on the ground, park over dry grass, or leave a fire unattended. One careless moment can have devastating consequences for the forests and communities that surround the river.
Every Drop Matters
The Arkansas River supports farms, ranches, towns, wildlife, recreation, and countless local businesses. Everyone depends on this river.
Being a good steward doesn’t mean giving up outdoor adventure. It means enjoying the river responsibly so it can continue supporting the people and places that make this valley special.
We’re All in This Together
At Monumental Expeditions, we spend nearly every day on the Arkansas River during rafting season. We see firsthand how changing water conditions affect the river each year, and we also see how much people care about protecting it.
When you join us for a rafting trip, you’re not just experiencing one of Colorado’s greatest adventures. You’re becoming part of a community that values clean water, healthy forests, thriving wildlife, and responsible recreation.
The Arkansas River has given so much to all of us. During this drought, let’s all do our part to give something back.