Locations

River Campus

Your Urban Nature Escape


Nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River, the River Campus is a natural oasis within the city of Pueblo. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking along the American Bicycle Trail System, fishing the Arkansas River headwaters, and observing native wildlife. The River Campus blends recreation, conservation, and education, offering a space to explore nature without leaving town.

Park Hours


  • 6:30 AM – dusk, until further notice

The River Campus may temporarily close due to inclement weather. Visitors should check local conditions before traveling.

Please do not leave valuables in parked cars.

Amenities & Facilities


  • Restrooms are available Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM, and park open-dusk on Weekends. 
  • Porta-potties available at all other times
  • Bike and pedestrian access to the Pueblo River Trail
  • Shaded picnic areas and open green space

River Campus Building


The River Campus building serves as an office and educational hub for multiple weekday programs. Currently, it is not open to the public unless rented, as we work to re-envision the space to better meet sustainability goals and organizational needs.


Fishing & Water Safety


The Arkansas River is a popular fishing destination, tubing, and boating. Visitors who plan to utilize the River are encouraged to review Colorado Parks & Wildlife fishing regulations and water safety guidelines  before heading out.

Read CPW Fishing Regulations & Water Safety


Important:  Due to the river’s dynamic nature, there may be occasional park closures due to high water.


Home to the Raptor Center


The River Campus is also home to Colorado’s only dedicated raptor rehabilitation center, where injured and orphaned birds of prey receive expert care.

  • Injured or orphaned bird intake: Open 7 days a week, 10 AM – 4 PM
  • Public and private tours: Available twice a month — check our Event Calendar for upcoming dates

Learn More About the Raptor Center


The Mountain Campus Is Now Closed


Following the effects of the Aspen Acres Fire, the Pueblo Mountain Park & NWDC Mountain Campus is closed to the public. NWDC is moving all program and admin operations to the River Campus in Pueblo.


We are monitoring the aftermath of the fire, but do not have on-site information. Please check the City of Pueblo or Pueblo County Sheriff's Department Facebook pages for updates.


Click below to donate to our recovery fund:


DONATE