05-18-2011, 11:10 AM
HASTY, Colo. - Summer is finally here and John Martin Reservoir State Park is a great place to spend a few relaxing days in the southeastern Colorado sun, trying out the new fishing and camping gear and enjoying water sports without the crowds.
John Martin Reservoir has plenty of room for boating, waterskiing and a wide variety of water sports. Anglers on the shore or in boat can catch walleye, saugeye, bass, wiper, crappie, perch, and catfish. The Colorado Division of Wildlife stocks the reservoir each year.<br />
The campground at John Martin is open year-round with electrical hookups at each of the 109 sites. All sites are at least 60 feet long accommodating any size RV, motor home, trailer, camper or tent. For those seeking camping with some more modern amenities, there is a fish-cleaning station as well as a camper services building with flush restrooms, a laundry room, and coin-operated hot showers. Camping reservations are recommended for weekend visitors.<br />
Many consider the park a birdwatcher's paradise with almost 400 species documented in the surrounding area of Bent County. Majestic bald eagles roost here in winter. Threatened and endangered species, such as the piping plover and the least tern, make the park their home for several months each year. After the birds bed down for the night, the stars entertain in a dramatic display of celestial light undimmed by urban development.<br />
John Martin Reservoir State Park is open 24 hours a day and the park's visitor center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until May 20, when expanded summer hours begin. Check the Colorado State Parks' website for an updated listing of summer hours. All visitors entering the park will be required to purchase a daily park pass for $7 per vehicle or display their annual pass, which can be purchased online for $70.<br />
Colorado State Parks get everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state's favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.
John Martin Reservoir has plenty of room for boating, waterskiing and a wide variety of water sports. Anglers on the shore or in boat can catch walleye, saugeye, bass, wiper, crappie, perch, and catfish. The Colorado Division of Wildlife stocks the reservoir each year.<br />
The campground at John Martin is open year-round with electrical hookups at each of the 109 sites. All sites are at least 60 feet long accommodating any size RV, motor home, trailer, camper or tent. For those seeking camping with some more modern amenities, there is a fish-cleaning station as well as a camper services building with flush restrooms, a laundry room, and coin-operated hot showers. Camping reservations are recommended for weekend visitors.<br />
Many consider the park a birdwatcher's paradise with almost 400 species documented in the surrounding area of Bent County. Majestic bald eagles roost here in winter. Threatened and endangered species, such as the piping plover and the least tern, make the park their home for several months each year. After the birds bed down for the night, the stars entertain in a dramatic display of celestial light undimmed by urban development.<br />
John Martin Reservoir State Park is open 24 hours a day and the park's visitor center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until May 20, when expanded summer hours begin. Check the Colorado State Parks' website for an updated listing of summer hours. All visitors entering the park will be required to purchase a daily park pass for $7 per vehicle or display their annual pass, which can be purchased online for $70.<br />
Colorado State Parks get everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state's favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.