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Jackson Lake
Overview
Jackson Lake State Park is a premier destination for those seeking water and wide-open spaces in Northeast Colorado. Often called the Oasis on the Plains, this park offers a unique combination of sandy beaches and sprawling prairie landscapes. It provides a peaceful retreat for campers looking to escape the hustle of more crowded mountain parks while enjoying a diverse range of year-round outdoor activities in a scenic high-plains environment.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near Orchard, Colorado, the park is nestled within the high plains ecosystem. The landscape is defined by its massive 2,700-acre reservoir surrounded by native cottonwood trees and rolling grassy fields. Travelers will find the horizon stretches far in every direction, making it an incredible spot for star gazing, as the park is a designated International Dark Sky Park. The remote setting ensures a quiet, natural atmosphere far from any major urban centers.
Amenities & Park Features
The facility caters well to RVers with over 260 campsites featuring various electrical hookups. While many sites are more rustic, several loops offer 30-amp and 50-amp service to accommodate modern rigs of various sizes. Visitors have access to shower facilities and laundry services, which are essential for longer stays. The park also maintains clean vault toilets, multiple boat ramps, and designated swimming areas with soft, sandy shorelines perfect for a summer afternoon under the sun.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water sports are the primary draw here, including boating, jet skiing, and fishing for species like walleye, wipers, and catfish. On land, the park features several miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking and biking through the brush. During migration seasons, the area becomes a major hotspot for bird watching, attracting enthusiasts eager to see waterfowl and shorebirds. For those willing to drive, the nearby Pawnee National Grassland offers additional opportunities for exploring the rugged Colorado plains.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for families and boating enthusiasts who prioritize easy water access and a relaxed, beach-like environment. It is a fantastic choice for stargazers and night photographers looking to capture the Milky Way without any light pollution. If you prefer a scenic, high-plains camping experience where the sound of the wind through the trees and waves on the shore dominates, this eastern Colorado gem is a perfect fit for your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jamie
Me and my family enjoy coming here at night ro star gaze and my son brings his telescope and has captured comets. If you don't want to camp, theres a huge parking lot available if you just want to come hang out. It's a nice park. Worth the visit for sure.
Kimberly Lip
This place is awesome! The only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is #1 Flies, Flies, Flies… I’d read a review warning about the bugs but didn’t think it would be this bad. OMG. Go prepared. A screened canopy is a must, keep your fire going, and essential oil spray keeps them at bay. #2 The reservoir had been drained early so the beach and the bottom of the lake were connected so MUD everywhere. It’s best to go before Labor Day to enjoy the full “beach vibe”. The campsites are pretty close but our neighbors on all sides were super nice. We stayed at Sandpiper which is very close to the water. Lakeside, Cove, Pelican, and Sandpiper appear to be the more popular sites. There were rangers frequently making rounds (which I personally loved). Restrooms and showers were pretty par for the course and the sites had electricity and water. There’s also a marina with lots of necessities unless you forget anything.
Jay Volesky
Great spot. Water was amazing. Quiet, beautiful sunrise, nice spot to camp
D W
This is now one of our fav places for camping...it has larger spots close to the water. You can swim and paddleboard...they allow floaties. We loved the different drop in areas. People nice and chill. Not too crowded. Free showers. Big bathrooms. Nice camp hosts, helpful. Bugs get worse at night but more like little flying bugs than mosquitos, so you can still hang out
Terri Nichols
The staff is great and very friendly. Sites are large and clean. Birds of all kinds abound. Beautiful setting. Bring bug spray, midget and gnats are baaad.