John Martin Reservoir State Park

3.99

149 reviews

30703 County Road 24, Hasty, Colorado, 81044, United States

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

3,881 ft

Price

$9 - $27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

109 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Colorado Parks and Wildlife site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,881 ft

Price

$9 - $27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

109 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Colorado Parks and Wildlife site

Official Website

Get Directions

John Martin Reservoir State Park

$9.00 - $27.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees include $27/night for Lake Hasty electric hookup sites. Additional $10/day vehicle fee applies. Coin-operated showers incur extra fees.

Standard Site Fee$27.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

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What Campers Say

3.99

Mixed Reviews

Based on 149 reviews

792 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spaciousstaff

Some mention

mosquitoes

"User reviews of John Martin Reservoir State Park highlight its diverse activities, spacious campsites, and abundant wildlife. Positive aspects include cleanliness, staff helpfulness, and beautiful views, while complaints often focus on mosquitoes, restroom maintenance, and additional fees."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

30703 County Road 24, Hasty, Colorado, 81044, United States

John Martin Reservoir State Park

30703 County Road 24, Hasty, Colorado, 81044, United States

Driving directionsFrom Lamar, CO, travel 23 miles west on Hwy. 50 to Hasty, CO. Go south on County Road 24 (School St) from Hasty, CO, and travel 2 miles. The Park Visitor Center will be on your right just before the road traveling over the DAM. From Las Animas, CO, travel 17 miles east on Hwy. 50 to Hasty, CO. Go south on County Road 24 (School St) from Hasty, CO and travel 2 miles. The Park Visitor Center will be on your right just before the road traveling over the DAM. Note: DO NOT turn south in Las Animas on Carson Ave (CO-101).

The campground is accessible year-round via paved roads. Seasonal closures or accessibility issues were not mentioned.

Nearby places

Lamar (23 miles west), Las Animas (17 miles east)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are in Hasty, Colorado, with Lamar and Las Animas offering more comprehensive shopping options.

Best Time to Camp at John Martin Reservoir State Park

Time your visit to experience the park at its finest during the gentle days of spring and fall, when comfortable temperatures create perfect camping conditions and insect activity remains minimal. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched playground, though temperatures frequently soar above 90°F and mosquitoes emerge in full force—come prepared with plenty of water and insect repellent. Winter brings a peaceful solitude to the park, with crisp, cold days offering a completely different camping experience for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.5 / 5

Summer brings heat, high winds and 'horrible' mosquitoes that often mar the experience.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall praised for gentle temperatures, fewer bugs and excellent camping conditions.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 16% in CO

Spring offers comfortable temps and minimal insect activity; highly recommended season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; quieter with birding opportunities but limited winter-specific activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are not explicitly indicated.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round.

About John Martin Reservoir State Park

Discover a hidden oasis where the vast Colorado plains meet shimmering waters at John Martin Reservoir State Park. This southeastern Colorado gem beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its modern campgrounds, exceptional year-round camping opportunities, and some of the state's most uncrowded boating waters. Whether you're casting a line for trophy fish or scanning the horizon for diverse wildlife, this expansive park offers an unexpected escape from the ordinary.

John Martin Reservoir State Park accommodates diverse camping preferences, offering electric, full-hookup, and basic campsites in the Lake Hasty and Point campgrounds. The Lake Hasty Campground features modern amenities and shaded spots, while the Point Campground offers a more primitive experience with exceptional views.

Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of American history as you explore this region steeped in frontier heritage. The legendary Santa Fe Trail passes adjacent to the park, where wagon ruts still tell tales of westward expansion. Venture beyond the park boundaries to discover profound historical sites including the somber Sand Creek Massacre Historic Site, the fascinating Big Timbers Museum showcasing local pioneer life, and Camp Amache National Historic Landmark, which preserves the memory of Japanese American internment during World War II.

Weather and SeasonsTime your visit to experience the park at its finest during the gentle days of spring and fall, when comfortable temperatures create perfect camping conditions and insect activity remains minimal. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched playground, though temperatures frequently soar above 90°F and mosquitoes emerge in full force—come prepared with plenty of water and insect repellent. Winter brings a peaceful solitude to the park, with crisp, cold days offering a completely different camping experience for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds.

ElevationThe park rests at the gentle elevations characteristic of Colorado's eastern plains, where the landscape stretches endlessly toward distant horizons.

Natural Features and SceneryExperience two distinct camping environments within the park's boundaries. Lake Hasty Campground shelters beneath a canopy of majestic, mature cottonwood trees that provide welcome shade and rustle with prairie breezes. In contrast, Point Campground embraces the wide-open spirit of the plains with its treeless sites offering unobstructed views across the sparkling reservoir waters. This diverse landscape creates a paradise for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts, where eagles soar overhead and countless species find refuge in this prairie oasis.

Geological RegionNestled within the Lower Arkansas River Valley, John Martin Reservoir State Park emerges as a life-giving oasis amid the sweeping plains of southeastern Colorado. This unique geological setting creates a dramatic contrast where water meets prairie, forming a crucial habitat that has attracted both wildlife and humans for countless generations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 days within a 28-day period per Colorado Parks & Wildlife regulations.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites allow up to 6 individuals.

Groups

Group sites are available, though no specific details about their capacity or fees are provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutLake Hasty Campground features shaded electric sites laid out below the dam. Point Campground offers treeless sites with scenic views.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.cpwshop.com. ReserveAmerica.com has limited functionality for CPW customers.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible but limited, especially during peak seasons.

Cancellation PolicyReservations for dates outside of the 6-month reservation window are locked for changes for 14 days after booking. Reservation changes or cancellations must be done via www.cpwshop.com.

AccessibilityThe park offers ADA-accessible electric campsites such as Lake Hasty 059HD and 060HD. However, no additional details on accessibility features are provided.

Site SizeSites vary in size, accommodating equipment up to 220 feet in length (e.g., Lake Hasty 090 Electric).

PrivacySites are generally spacious and well-spaced. Some areas, such as the Point Campground, are noted for their open and exposed layout, while Lake Hasty offers more shaded and private spots.

Total Campsites109 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites 1-29 at Lake Hasty as they lack shade. Point Campground is recommended for views but lacks amenities.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

John Martin Reservoir State Park offers a diverse range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife observation. Seasonal opportunities for bird watching are particularly noteworthy, with sightings of bald eagles, snow geese, and other species. Water-based activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular, although water levels can fluctuate. The park also features historical trails and opportunities for photography.

HikingHiking opportunities include trails near the visitor center and a historical trail on the other side of the dam, which intersects with the Santa Fe Trail. Some users found the trails 'boring,' while others appreciated their historical significance.

FishingFishing is a major draw, with species such as catfish, carp, and bass available. The Lake Hasty area and the spillway are popular fishing spots. Seasonal algae blooms may limit fishing opportunities.

SwimmingSwimming is allowed, with designated beach areas and playgrounds nearby. During algae blooms, water activities may be restricted.

BikingBiking is allowed on open roads and trails, though no specific bike paths are mentioned.

BoatingBoating is a key activity, with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and sailing. However, boat launches may be difficult during low water levels, especially after July 1.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing includes bald eagles, blue herons, and prairie dogs. Seasonal migrations of snow geese are a highlight.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes and biting flies are frequently reported during warmer months. Strong winds, especially at Point Campground, can pose challenges. Wildlife such as skunks, raccoons, and coyotes may be present.

Fire PolicyCampfire regulations not explicitly detailed; visitors report enjoying campfires during their stay.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not specifically mentioned in provided materials.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services include Hasty, Colorado, with Lamar and Las Animas offering additional resources such as hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities, including dumpsters, are available on-site. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesLake Hasty is adjacent to the reservoir but accessing water requires driving due to natural barriers like reeds and tall grasses.

Camp HostHosts are active and helpful. Multiple reviews highlight their regular patrols and assistance.

Weather at John Martin Reservoir State Park

Reviews

4.0

149 reviews

Mixed Reviews

John Martin Reservoir State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of John Martin Reservoir State Park highlight its diverse activities, spacious campsites, and abundant wildlife. Positive aspects include cleanliness, staff helpfulness, and beautiful views, while complaints often focus on mosquitoes, restroom maintenance, and additional fees.

Review Summaries

Based on 149 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the park's wildlife, 'gorgeous sunsets,' 'spacious campgrounds,' and the 'helpful and courteous staff.' Activities like fishing, boating, and bird watching received high marks.

Based on 149 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquito infestations were described as 'horrible,' particularly in summer. Restrooms and showers were frequently criticized for cleanliness issues, and extra daily fees for vehicle access frustrated...

Based on 149 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommended reserving shaded spots at the Lake Hasty Campground and avoiding the Point Campground during summer due to heat and wind. Bringing mosquito repellents and planning for additional...

Based on 149 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are favored for mild weather and fewer bugs, while summer can be challenging due to heat, mosquitoes, and high winds. Winter offers a quieter experience with opportunities for bird...

Based on 149 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Gorgeous sunsets here and plenty of views for wildlife." "The Point campground offers great sunrise and sunset views but be cautious of sudden storms." "The mosquitoes kept us inside our RV for the...

Based on 149 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Lake Hasty Campground is noted for its spacious and shaded sites, while the Point Campground is described as exposed and better suited for those seeking open views. Specific sites like #71 are...

Based on 149 reviews