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Skip Navigation LinksColorado State Parks > Parks > John Martin Reservoir > Park Activities
  Activities

Biking - 7/17/2011
Biking is permitted throughout John Martin Reservoir State Park, although no specific trails are set aside for bicycles.
Birding - 7/17/2011
With 373 documented species of birds in Bent County, John Martin Reservoir State Park is a premier birding area! Recent sightings include pelicans in Lake Hasty and Blue Herrings along the west side of Lake Hasty.
Boating - 1/7/2012
Check condition page for current conditions
Camping - 7/17/2011
The mild southeastern Colorado climate provides great year-round camping at John Martin Reservoir State Park. Check the park overview map to locate the campgrounds. Sites are at least 60 feet long, accommodating any size RV, motor home, trailer, camper or tent. The Lake Hasty Campground is open year round with electrical hookups (20, 30 and 50 amp) at each site. Potable water is available year round in various locations throughout the campground. Campers can access the dump station year round. The camper services building (including showers and laundry) is open May 1 to September 30 every year. For more information, check out the "Camping" link on John Martin’s main page.
Fishing - 7/17/2011
John Martin Reservoir offers many types of warm-water fish. Early and late spring are popular for crappie and saugeye fishing. Anglers from all over the country come to John Martin Reservoir early to mid-summer to fish for bass and wiper. Late-night anglers will find channel catfish and walleye all summer long. Bluegill and drum are found throughout the seasons as well. Fall usually brings another run of crappie and wiper.
Hiking - 7/17/2011
The Red Shin Trail is a great way to view Indian carvings, wildlife, and the reservoir. The trail starts below the dam, goes through the Historic Canals, Rock Art Site, and Prowers-Hudnell ranch and comes to an end at the Santa Fe Trail Marker on the north shore of John Martin Reservoir State Park.
Horseback Riding - 7/17/2011
There are no established trails specifically for horses at John Martin, but horses are welcomed on the trails. Keep in mind that horses cannot be kept in the campgrounds.
Hunting - 7/17/2011
John Martin Reservoir State Park is closed to hunting but is a great place for your hunting camp with the state wildlife area 5 minutes from the campgrounds! No OHV riding is allowed on John Martin Reservoir State Park or the John Martin State Wildlife Area.
Jet Skiing - 1/7/2012
Allowed when lake is open.
OHV Riding - 7/17/2011
No OHV riding is permitted on John Martin Reservoir State Park or on the adjoining John Martin Reservoir State Wildlife Area. Any vehicles used at John Martin must be street legal.
Picnicking - 7/17/2011
During spring, summer, and fall, there are miles of breezy shoreline available for picnicking at John Martin. Scattered throughout the park, individual tables are located by the shore or in shaded areas. Group Picnic facilities are available and must be reserved in advance at the Visitor Center. Call 1-719-829-1801 for information.
Swimming - 9/8/2011
The swimbeach is closed for the year.
Wildlife Viewing - 7/17/2011
John Martin Reservoir is an excellent area for viewing wildlife. Recent sightings include many species of birds, coyotes, and racoons.
Winter Camping - 7/17/2011
The Lake Hasty Campground has sites available year round. For more information, visit the "camping" link on the left side of John Martin's main page.
Last Modified Date: 3/15/2011 8:38 AM