Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next John Martin Reservoir State Park adventure.
This high plains oasis offers two bodies of water, historic sites, and an abundance of birds.
In the Lower Arkansas River Valley in southeastern Colorado, the “sapphire of the plains” features a large reservoir and a small lake, the well-stocked Lake Hasty. The reservoir is best for uncrowded boating and water sports, while anglers can fish from either body of water. This spot is a birdwatcher’s paradise with nearly 400 species of birds, including bald eagles, piping plovers, and least terns. Several hiking and biking trails offer land-based exploration, winding past historic sites and petroglyphs. With three campgrounds made up of RV sites, tent sites, and group campsites, there’s a good amount of space for overnight stays.
Summer is the busiest time at John Martin. The Lake Hasty Swim Beach is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, while boat ramps are closed from November 1 to March 15 to allow for waterfowl resting. Winter is the time to see bald eagles, while piping plover and interior least tern can be seen from mid-April to late August. Seasonal facilities at Lake Hasty Campground (including the camper services building and fish cleaning station) are open from April 1 to September 30.