Did you know Jackson Lake State Park is one of only eight locations in Colorado designated as an International Dark Sky Park? This hidden gem in northeastern Colorado offers some of the most spectacular stargazing opportunities in the state, with minimal light pollution allowing visitors to witness the Milky Way in all its glory. Located about 70 miles northeast of Denver, this 4,600-acre oasis in the plains features a 2,700-hectare (6,664-acre) reservoir with warm waters and sandy beaches that earned it recognition as one of the “Top 15 Park Beaches” by Reserve America.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Jackson Lake State Park is located in northeastern Colorado, approximately 70 miles from Denver. The park’s address is 26363 County Road 3, Orchard, CO 80649. Visitors have several options for reaching this outdoor paradise.

Closest Airports

• Denver International Airport (DEN) – 120 km (75 miles) southwest
• Colorado Springs Airport (COS) – 240 km (150 miles) south

Driving Directions

From Denver, head east on I-76. Take the second Wiggins exit (exit 66) and turn left (north) on CO 39/CO 52. Drive approximately 9 miles, continuing half a mile past Goodrich. Turn left onto County Road Y.5 and stay on it as it turns north after a couple of miles. This route will take you past the park’s south side and into the main park area on the west side.

Park Contact Information

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Weather Considerations

Northeastern Colorado experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. Summer afternoons can be quite hot, while evenings cool down considerably. Thunderstorms are common in summer afternoons, so plan water activities for mornings when possible. Winter brings cold temperatures but offers opportunities for ice fishing and stargazing on clear nights.

Getting Around Locally

Jackson Lake State Park spans 4,600 acres, making personal transportation essential for exploring all it has to offer. The park features well-maintained roads connecting various campgrounds, beaches, and activity areas.

Transportation Options

• Personal Vehicle: The most convenient way to navigate the park. All major areas have designated parking.
• Bicycling: Bikes are permitted on park roads and designated trails, offering an eco-friendly way to explore.
• Walking: Several hiking trails connect different areas of the park, with the main trail stretching 1.5 miles from the Visitor Center to Northview Campground.

The park is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with the Visitor Center operating Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed on weekends). A daily vehicle pass ($10) or annual pass is required for entry.

Where to Stay

Jackson Lake State Park offers excellent camping options with 251 campsites available year-round. Most sites can accommodate RVs, trailers, or tents, making it suitable for various camping preferences.

Campground Options

Group Camping

The Dunes Group Campground offers 18 sites with electricity, perfect for family reunions, club outings, or other group events. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months.

Amenities

• Modern shower facilities (closed during winter months)
• Laundry facilities
• Vault toilets available year-round
• Electric hookups at most sites
• Drinking water stations

Camping fees range from $20-36 per night depending on the site type and season. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance and are highly recommended during summer weekends and holidays.

Dining & Local Cuisine

While Jackson Lake State Park doesn’t have full-service restaurants within its boundaries, there are several dining options for visitors to enjoy during their stay.

In-Park Options

• Shoreline Marina Store: Located near the boat ramp, this seasonal convenience store offers basic groceries, ice, fishing supplies, and snacks.
• Picnic Areas: The park features 60 picnic sites along the shoreline and in designated areas like the Cottonwood picnic area. Each site includes a table and grill.
• Centennial Group Picnic Area: Can accommodate up to 100 people for larger gatherings and events.

Nearby Dining

The town of Orchard is approximately 10 minutes from the park and offers basic dining options. For more varied cuisine, visitors can head to Fort Morgan (about 30 minutes away), which features several restaurants serving American fare, Mexican cuisine, and fast-food options.

Self-Catering

Most visitors bring their own food supplies for their stay. The towns of Wiggins and Fort Morgan have grocery stores where you can stock up before arriving at the park. Campfire cooking and grilling are popular options, though fire restrictions may apply during dry periods.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Jackson Lake State Park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages and interests. From water sports to land-based activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Water Activities

• Boating: The 2,700-hectare reservoir is perfect for motorboats, jet skis, and sailboats. A boat ramp is located on the west side of the lake.
• Swimming: Sandy beaches with gradually sloping lake bottoms make Jackson Lake ideal for swimming. The west and south shores are designated swimming areas.
• Water Skiing & Jet Skiing: The large reservoir provides ample space for water skiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing.
• Fishing: The lake is stocked with warm-water species including walleye, saugeye, catfish, perch, rainbow trout, crappie, and wipers.

Land-Based Activities

• Hiking: Two main trails include the 0.25-mile Prairie Wetland Nature Self-Guided Trail and a 1.5-mile trail connecting the Visitor Center to Northview Campground.
• OHV Riding: A 1.5-mile off-highway vehicle track offers rolling prairie terrain for motorsport enthusiasts.
• Birding: The park is home to diverse bird species, including American white pelicans, whooping cranes, and various hawks.
• Stargazing: As an International Dark Sky Park, Jackson Lake offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities.

Seasonal Activities

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Jackson Lake State Park is primarily known for its natural attractions, there are cultural and educational opportunities to enhance your visit.

Visitor Center

The Jackson Lake Visitor Center, located on the west side of the lake, features educational exhibits about the park’s ecosystem, wildlife, and history. It’s open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and offers a small gift shop with souvenirs and educational materials.

Educational Programs

During summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day), the park offers educational programs on Friday and Saturday evenings. These ranger-led activities cover topics such as local wildlife, astronomy, and the park’s natural history. Junior Ranger programs are available for children ages 6-12.

Nearby Cultural Attractions

• Fort Morgan Museum (30 minutes away): Exhibits on local history, including pioneer life and the famous bandleader Glenn Miller.
• Pawnee National Grassland (1 hour north): Historic sites and interpretive displays about the prairie ecosystem and human history.
• Overland Trail Museum (Sterling, 1 hour northeast): Showcases the history of northeastern Colorado and the Overland Trail.

Check with the Visitor Center for information about seasonal events and festivals that may be happening during your visit.

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Jackson Lake State Park offers exceptional opportunities to connect with nature in a unique prairie ecosystem. The park’s diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife and plant species.

Wildlife Viewing

The park is home to numerous animal species that visitors might encounter during their stay:

• Mammals: White-tailed deer, coyotes, rabbits, fox squirrels, and red foxes
• Birds: American white pelicans, northern harriers, Swainson’s hawks, lark buntings (Colorado’s state bird), and occasionally whooping cranes
• Reptiles and Amphibians: Painted turtles, bullfrogs, snapping turtles, and western hognose snakes

Plant Life

The park features short grass and mixed grass prairie communities with species adapted to both clay and sandy soils. Visitors can observe native grasses like blue grama, needle-and-thread grass, western wheatgrass, and buffalo grass. The rare showy prairie gentian can also be found within the park boundaries.

Geology

The landscape around Jackson Lake was formed by wind-carried sand and silt from the South Platte River basin during the Pleistocene era. These materials created the distinctive sand hills that sit atop shales from the upper Cretaceous Pierre Formation.

Stargazing

As an International Dark Sky Park, Jackson Lake offers some of Colorado’s best stargazing opportunities. On clear nights, visitors can observe the Milky Way, constellations, and occasionally meteor showers with minimal light pollution. The park sometimes hosts astronomy programs during summer months.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience at Jackson Lake State Park requires awareness of safety guidelines and respect for park regulations.

Water Safety

• Children 12 and younger must wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) when on boats.
• Swim only in designated areas and never alone.
• Be aware that no lifeguards are on duty – swim at your own risk.
• Check weather forecasts before boating, as afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.

Outdoor Safety

• Stay hydrated and use sun protection – the Colorado sun is intense at this elevation.
• Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
• During hunting season, wear bright clothing and stay on designated trails.
• Check for fire restrictions before building campfires.

Park Etiquette

• Practice “Leave No Trace” principles by packing out all trash.
• Keep pets on leashes no longer than six feet and clean up after them.
• Respect quiet hours in campgrounds (10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.).
• Boat counter-clockwise and spread out across the reservoir to avoid congestion.

Aquatic Nuisance Species Prevention

All motorized boats must undergo inspection for aquatic nuisance species before launching. Clean, drain, and dry all watercraft and equipment to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Visitor Comments About Jackson Lake State Park

Additional Nearby Destinations

While Jackson Lake State Park offers plenty to keep visitors engaged, there are several worthwhile destinations within driving distance for those looking to explore more of northeastern Colorado.

Practical Travel Tips

What to Pack

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential in Colorado’s high-altitude environment.
• Layers: Even in summer, temperatures can vary significantly between day and night.
• Water Containers: Bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated.
• Binoculars: Useful for wildlife viewing and stargazing.
• Insect Repellent: Particularly important during summer months.

Reservations & Fees

• Daily vehicle pass: $10 (required for all vehicles entering the park)
• Camping fees: $20-36 per night depending on site type
• Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website or by calling 970-645-2551
• Annual passes are available for frequent visitors

Connectivity

Cell phone coverage is generally available throughout the park, though signal strength varies by carrier. Wi-Fi is not available in the park, so download maps and information before your visit if needed.

Accessibility

Jackson Lake State Park offers accessible facilities including designated campsites, restrooms, and fishing areas. The Visitor Center is wheelchair accessible, and some trails are suitable for visitors with mobility limitations.

Your Prairie Oasis Awaits

Jackson Lake State Park stands as a testament to Colorado’s diverse natural landscapes, offering an unexpected oasis of water, sand, and sky in the eastern plains. Whether you’re casting a line at sunrise, cooling off in the reservoir’s warm waters on a hot summer day, or gazing up at the spectacular star-filled sky, this park delivers experiences that create lasting memories. With its blend of water recreation, wildlife viewing, and peaceful camping, Jackson Lake provides the perfect escape from urban life without requiring a journey deep into the mountains. Pack your sense of adventure and discover why this hidden gem continues to captivate visitors year after year.