Loma, CO
Colorado River
Two campgrounds and four river sections through Utah red rock, from calm canyon to Class IV whitewater.
The Colorado River near Loma offers a dramatic journey through red-rock country, transforming from serene canyon passages into whitewater challenges and back again. This recreation area draws paddlers and river enthusiasts seeking varied experiences along a storied western waterway.
Two campgrounds serve as basepoints here: Westwater Campground (Ranger Station) and Westwater Group Site (Ranger Station). The river itself splits into four distinct sections—Ruby-Horsethief Canyon, Westwater Canyon, Meander Canyon, and the Moab Daily Cisco Stretch—each with its own character and appeal.
No permit is required to visit, making the area accessible for day trips and multi-day expeditions alike. The landscape shifts from calm, sculpted gorges to intense rapids and back to scenic, manageable current, offering something for both novice and expert river runners.
Experiences
Rivers
Explore 4 rivers locations in Colorado River.
Experiences
Camping
Explore 2 camping locations in Colorado River.
Common Questions
What visitors most often want to know about Colorado River.
Do I need a permit to run the Colorado River near Loma?
No permit is required to run this section of the Colorado River. The area is open to all boaters without advance permits or draws.
What sections of the Colorado River are included in this area?
The area includes Ruby-Horsethief Canyon (Loma to Westwater), Westwater Canyon, and the Moab Daily Cisco Stretch (Hittle Bottom to Take Out Beach). Each section offers distinct character, from calm red-rock canyons to technical whitewater and scenic accessible stretches.
Where can I find ranger stations in this area?
Ranger stations are located at Westwater Campground and Westwater Group Site. These are the primary contact points for visitor information and assistance in the area.
What camping is available near the Colorado River in this area?
Two campgrounds are available: Westwater Campground and Westwater Group Site, each with a ranger station. Westwater Group Site is designed for group camping.