Sometimes called a sapphire on the plains, John Martin is a peaceful paradise in which people play, birds flock and wildlife roams. The park is close to historic landmarks, yet remote enough to attract year-round nature and recreation lovers to stay and explore.
Biking
Biking is permitted throughout John Martin Reservoir State Park.
Birding
With 373 documented species of birds in Bent County, John Martin Reservoir State Park is a premier birding area! We have already begun to see some Interior Least Tern and Piping Plovers; however, as these species are endangered, we ask you to view them from afar and observe any area closures.
Boating
All types of boating are permitted on John Martin Reservoir.
Only non-motorized, hand-launched vessels are permitted on Lake Hasty.
Any motorized or trailered vessels launched on the reservoir are required to be inspected for invasive species.
Camping
The mild southeastern Colorado climate provides great year-round camping at John Martin Reservoir State Park
Dog-friendly
Dogs are welcome everywhere in the park as long as:
they are on a six foot or shorter leash at all times
their waste is properly disposed of
Fishing
John Martin Reservoir offers many types of warm-water fish. Late spring to early summer is popular for crappie and saugeye fishing. Anglers from all over the country come to John Martin Reservoir 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. Ice fishing is discouraged as the lake rarely freezes over completely.
Geocaching
One of our local boy scouts has completed his Eagle Scout project by providing John Martin Reservoir State Park with a brand new geocaching program. Please check with staff to check out GPS units, and give finding the caches a shot!
Group Camping
The Caddoa group site is available via reservation for groups who wish to have their own secluded group site. Please contact the Visitor Center at 719-829-1801 for more information or to plan your stay.
Group Picnicking
There are two large group picnicking sites at John Martin capable of fitting larger events. A reservation is required in advance, so please contact the Visitor Center at 719-829-1801 for more information.
Hiking
The Red Shin Trail is a great way to view history, wildlife, and nature all at once. The trail starts below the dam and runs between the Arkansas River and Lake Hasty, it passes by Native American rock art, a historic ranch, wetlands, the Visitor Center, and comes to an end at the Santa Fe Trail Marker on the north shore of John Martin Reservoir.
Horseback Riding
Horses are welcomed on the trails. Keep in mind that horses cannot be kept in the campgrounds.
Hunting
John Martin Reservoir State Park is closed to hunting, but is a great place for your hunting camp. The rest of the reservoir and its shorelines are a state wildlife area and are less than 5 minutes from the campgrounds! Be sure to check seasons and regulations online or at the Visitor Center.
Jet Skiing
Allowed on the reservoir when it is open.
OHV Riding
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
During spring, summer, and fall, there are miles of breezy shoreline available for picnicking at John Martin. Individual tables are scattered throughout the park by the shorelines or in shaded areas. Please do not picnic in campgrounds if you are not camping. Group Picnic facilities are available and must be reserved in advance at the Visitor Center. Call 1-719-829-1801 for information.
Swimming
A swim beach is available for guests at Lake Hasty over the summer season between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Swimming is allowed on the reservoir if wearing a personal flotation device. Swimming is not allowed from the boat docks or the point overlook. There are no lifeguards at either location, so please use caution.
Wildlife Viewing
John Martin Reservoir is an excellent area for viewing wildlife. Recent sightings include hundreds of bird species, deer, coyotes, bobcat, porcupines, beavers, snakes, turtles, and raccoons.
Winter Camping
The Lake Hasty Campground and the Point Campground have sites available year round.
