How much does camping cost at Jackson Lake State Park?

Camping fees at Jackson Lake State Park range from $36/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Jackson Lake State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Jackson Lake State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Jackson Lake State Park before I book?

Yes! Jackson Lake State Park has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Jackson Lake State Park?

Jackson Lake State Park is open Memorial Day to Labor Day (approximately last weekend of May through early September).. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Jackson Lake State Park?

Yes, Jackson Lake State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Jackson Lake State Park?

Fire policies at Jackson Lake State Park: No specific fire policies are noted, but user reviews mention fire pits at campsites.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Jackson Lake State Park have?

Jackson Lake State Park has 260 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Jackson Lake State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Jackson Lake State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Jackson Lake State Park?

Jackson Lake State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store, Laundry. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Jackson Lake State Park?

Popular activities at Jackson Lake State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Jackson Lake State Park

3.72

164 reviews

26363 County Rd. 3, Orchard, Colorado, 80649, United States

C-Report Card

Featured in:Swimming Camping Colorado

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,488 ft

Price

$36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

260 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Jackson Lake State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,488 ft

Price

$36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

260 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Jackson Lake State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Jackson Lake State Park

$36.00 - $36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite Description Single campsite (max 6 occupants) Duration 1 Night Cost $28 - $36

Standard Site Fee$36.00

Hookup Site Fee$36.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

9706452551

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Jackson Lake State Park

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

26363 County Rd. 3, Orchard, Colorado, 80649, United States

Jackson Lake State Park

26363 County Rd. 3, Orchard, Colorado, 80649, United States

Nearby places

Goodrich (7.25 miles), Denver (approximately 82 miles), Greeley (approximately 39 miles), Fort Morgan (approximately 22 miles)

Nearby supplies

The marina features a small store where extra supplies can be purchased. Beyond this, the nearest town for larger grocery runs is likely Goodrich or Fort Morgan.

Driving directionsFrom the US 34/I-76 Interchange, take CO 39 north 7 1/4 miles through Goodrich to T-intersection. Turn left (west) on County Road Y.5. Stay on County Road Y.5. (It will turn north after a couple of miles.) This will take you past the south side and into the main park area on the west.

The campground is accessible via paved roads. The driving directions provided highlight well-maintained roads leading to the park. There are complaints in user reviews about poor road conditions within the park itself, such as dirt roads being bumpy and rutted.

Weather at Jackson Lake State Park

Current alert: No official warnings are provided, but user reviews mention deteriorating maintenance quality, broken restroom facilities, and algae growth in the lake.

Best Time to Camp at Jackson Lake State Park

Fall is the best window. Daytime temps drop into the 60s–70s°F, nights cool to the 30s–40s°F, and crowds thin after Labor Day. Migratory birds pass through September and October. Summer is hot and brings heavy mosquito infestations. Multiple reviews mention this as a serious problem. Spring and fall offer comfortable conditions for hiking and fishing without the bugs. Winter is quiet and cold. The plains deliver constant wind and sudden storms year-round.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall recommended: milder temps, fewer crowds, and migratory birds/pelicans highlighted in reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day (approximately last weekend of May through early September).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Camping is available year-round. During the off season (October through March), the following campgrounds remain open: Lakeside, Cove and Pelican. Anyone may purchase a park pass at the kiosk located near the entrance station.

About Jackson Lake State Park

Jackson Lake State Park sits on northeastern Colorado's high plains, where a large reservoir interrupts miles of native grassland. The park has 260 campsites across multiple loops, accommodating tents, RVs up to 45 feet, and group camping. Sites run $36 per night. Expect spacious spots with electric and water hookups, but also expect bugs in warm months and variable maintenance depending on when you visit.

Jackson Lake State Park accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and group camping areas. Primitive camping options are not explicitly mentioned.

Historical Significance

A memorial bench sits between sites 6 and 8, noted by visitors as a quiet spot with personal significance. Otherwise, the park's history is primarily recreational. A reservoir landscape created for irrigation and modern water sports rather than deep cultural context.

Weather and SeasonsFall is the best window. Daytime temps drop into the 60s–70s°F, nights cool to the 30s–40s°F, and crowds thin after Labor Day. Migratory birds pass through September and October. Summer is hot and brings heavy mosquito infestations. Multiple reviews mention this as a serious problem. Spring and fall offer comfortable conditions for hiking and fishing without the bugs. Winter is quiet and cold. The plains deliver constant wind and sudden storms year-round.

ElevationPerched on Colorado's eastern plains, the park offers that distinctive high-country feel where the air carries a certain crispness and the horizon stretches endlessly in every direction.

Natural Features and SceneryJackson Lake Campground sits on the shore of **Jackson Reservoir** in **Jackson Lake State Park** on Colorado’s eastern plains. The natural environment is characterized by: - An open **prairie / high‑plains landscape** with broad views, gently rolling terrain, and agricultural land surrounding the park. - The large **reservoir** as the dominant feature: expansive open water that attracts waterfowl and offers sunrise and sunset reflections and wide sky vistas. - **Riparian and shoreline zones** with grasses, shrubs, and limited tree cover, providing habitat for birds and small mammals. - Big‑sky scenery typical of the Great Plains, with dramatic cloudscapes, strong light, and open horizons rather than mountain views. Campers who enjoy water‑based recreation, birdwatching, and wide‑open spaces tend to find the setting appealing, while those seeking forested or mountainous terrain may view the environment as more exposed and less scenic by comparison.

Geological RegionNestled in northeastern Colorado's captivating high plains, Jackson Lake State Park showcases the region's unique character where ancient grasslands meet modern recreation. This large reservoir, carved into the prairie landscape, creates an unexpected aquatic playground surrounded by the subtle beauty of native grasslands and resilient flora that have adapted to this distinctive environment over millennia.

Scenic ViewsViews of the reservoir are a highlight for campsites located lakeside. Other reviews mention spacious sites with some tree coverage providing privacy and protection from wind.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe park does not offer hotel-style lodging but provides diverse camping accommodations, including group sites and campsites near the lake. Tent, RV, and group camping are common, and many sites are spacious with tree coverage.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive programs are offered, though no detailed reviews describe specific topics or schedules.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

No information about stay limits provided by authoritative or user reviews.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No explicit information regarding guest limits per site.

Groups

Group sites are available and include picnic pavilions. Details on maximum group size or additional features are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spacious enough for 45-foot rigs plus tow vehicles. Privacy varies by loop. Some areas feel secluded and quiet. Others sit near neighboring houses or RV clusters. The campground uses a loop structure with sections designated for different camping types, though specific loop names aren't detailed in reviews. Levelness is inconsistent. Some campers reported difficulty getting their rigs level.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online or through the Aspira Call Center (1-800-244-5613).

Walk-in AvailabilitySome reviews note the ability to secure campsites on short notice, suggesting walk-up options may be available, but there is no definitive count of walk-up sites.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 28 days or more prior to arrival incur a 25% fee for one night. Cancellations within 8-27 days retain a 50% fee, and cancellations within 7 days or less retain 100%. Changes to reservations have variable fees based on timing. Specific refund rules apply, including non-refunds for weather, bugs, or water conditions.

AccessibilityHandicap-accessible sites are available, such as the designated site #35 which requires a handicap placard. However, one reviewer criticized the lack of handicap-accessible fishing locations.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious. One user noted, "Sites are pretty large so you do feel like you have some privacy," while another mentioned, "The spot sizes are big enough for a 45 ft motor coach plus a car in a boat.

PrivacySite privacy varies. Some areas are described as quiet and secluded, while others are near RVs or neighboring houses, reducing privacy. For example, a reviewer complained about a 'Dark Sky Park' site near a trailer court with bright lights.

Total Campsites260 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near the beach or lake are recommended for their views. Tree-covered sites offer shade and protection from wind. Avoid sites near neighboring houses due to light pollution.

Best CampsitesCampground‑level crowd‑sourced reviews I could find refer to staying “by the lake” or “near the water,” which implies that lakeside loops or sites with direct reservoir views are preferred for scenery and water access, but they do not consistently identify specific loop names or site numbers. There is not enough reliable, site‑specific data from The Dyrt, HipCamp, Campendium, or similar platforms to confidently recommend individual numbered campsites. A cautious, general takeaway is that **sites closest to the shoreline** are often favored for views and quick access to boating and fishing, while **interior sites** may offer slightly more shelter from wind, but this is based on typical patterns rather than explicit, detailed site reviews for this campground.

Need help booking Jackson Lake State Park?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Jackson Lake State Park offers a wide range of amenities to cater to diverse campers, including facilities for swimming, boating, hiking, and bird watching. The park is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and a variety of restroom options; however, the quality of maintenance varies as highlighted by visitors. Reviewers have noted issues such as dirty bathrooms and non-functional showers, especially at certain campsite loops like Foxhill. One reviewer mentioned, "Showers in the Foxhill campsite are disconnected, so make sure you come loaded with water." On the positive side, the park has group campsites and picnic pavilions, a marina with a small store for extra supplies, and a visitor center.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The park provides opportunities for swimming, boating, sailing, hiking, bird watching, and fishing, along with programs for wildlife observation. However, there are concerns about water quality and maintenance, such as algae in the lake and rocky shorelines.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsReviews highlight frequent mosquito infestations, strong winds capable of damaging tents, and reports of dead fish and red ant infestations near swim beaches. Raccoons and coyotes are also noted as nocturnal visitors.

Fire PolicyNo specific fire policies are noted, but user reviews mention fire pits at campsites.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not enforced effectively, as user reviews describe loud music and partying late into the night.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services can be contacted via the provided park numbers (9706452551). Specific details about the nearest hospital or police station are not provided.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but not consistently cleaned. One reviewer said, "Our campsite had trash and debris from previous campers."

Water FeaturesThe campground surrounds a large reservoir used for boating, fishing, and water sports. Swim beaches are nearby, though user reviews note concerns about algae and cleanliness.

Camp HostUser reviews describe camp hosts as 'worthless' and ineffective in enforcing rules or maintaining quiet hours.

Cell CoverageNone of the camping‑specific sources I was able to access provide explicit cell‑coverage reports (e.g., carrier‑by‑carrier signal strength, 4G/5G vs. 3G). Given the campground’s location in relatively open agricultural country on the High Plains near a small town (Orchard, CO) and not deep in mountains or canyons, it is reasonable to infer that major carriers (Verizon, AT&T, possibly T‑Mobile) have at least **moderate basic coverage** in much of the park, though dead spots are possible closer to the water or in low areas. Because this is an inference rather than a documented report from The Dyrt, Campendium, or similar, it should be treated as uncertain, and campers should plan for potentially variable reception.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Jackson Lake State Park

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.7

164 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Jackson Lake State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Jackson Lake State Park are mixed, with positive feedback highlighting the spacious campsites, boating opportunities, and wildlife viewing. Negative reviews focus on maintenance issues, such as dirty bathrooms, non-functional showers, and infestations of bugs.

Review Summaries

Based on 164 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 164 reviews.

Site #239Loved
Site #239 offers beautiful lake views but is plagued by mosquitoes.
Site #35Mentioned
Site #35 is handicap-accessible.

What Campers Love

From the limited but consistent camping and park‑description information available, visitors generally appreciate: - The **large reservoir** and associated water recreation (boating, fishing,...

Based on 164 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor maintenance of facilities, algae in the lake, infestations of bugs (mosquitoes and ants), and inconsistent enforcement of park rules. Some campers also noted unfriendly...

Based on 164 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Because I could not access a rich set of explicit camper reviews from the specified sites, practical tips come from general patterns noted for Jackson Lake State Park and similar reservoir...

Based on 164 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees high bug activity, algae in the lake, and crowded conditions, while winter is quieter and better for those interested in ice fishing or stargazing. Spring and fall are recommended for...

Based on 164 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice, quiet place to camp, boat, and picnic," "So. Many. Mosquitos," "Dead flies all over, and shower stalls did not work," "Pelicans are here during the summer months."

Based on 164 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are noted, such as site #35 for handicapped visitors, but the park is criticized for lacking accessible fishing locations.

Based on 164 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but users caution about sand burs at campsites, which can be problematic for dogs. Leashed dogs are welcome, and some users appreciate the pet-friendly policy.

Based on 164 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Boaters and paddleboarders who come after Labor Day get the best of it: cooler temps, thinning crowds, fall pelican and eagle sightings, and sites spacious enough for 45-foot rigs. Weekday visits sidestep the party atmosphere.

Skip if

Foxhill loop showers were disconnected per recent reviewers, camp hosts are widely described as checked-out, and a consistent thread of reviews from campers outside the local social mainstream describes an unwelcoming atmosphere worth factoring in before booking.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

3.7

(164)

Jackson Lake Campground

Jackson Lake State Park

PAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLAND PO BOX 386, AULT, CO, 80610, USA

Crow Valley sits in the Pawnee National Grassland near Ault, Colorado, managed by the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests. This very small campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites in mid-elevation forest, with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Spring draws birdwatchers and wildflower enthusiasts when cottonwoods leaf out and migration peaks.

$17.00 - $77.00 / night

Campgrounds you may also like

3720 N.County Rd. 11-C, Loveland, Colorado, 80538, United States

Boyd Lake State Park sits at 4,948 feet where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountain foothills, offering a 1,700-acre reservoir with sandy beaches, boat ramps, and water sports. The campground charges $36-38/night plus a $10 daily entrance fee. Sites range from roomy pull-throughs to smaller, closely spaced spots. Facilities include showers (bring quarters), flush toilets, electric hookups, and a camp store.

$36.00 - $38.00 / night

Less Visited

4.7

(6)

Jumbo Reservoir State Wildlife Area

28167 County Road T, Brush, Colorado, 80723, United States

Jumbo Reservoir State Wildlife Area has six primitive campsites scattered around a 1,578-acre reservoir on Colorado's Eastern Plains near Brush. The sites accommodate up to six people each and come with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Fishing for walleye, bass, crappie, and catfish draws most visitors, though Google Maps struggles to locate the area reliably.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.3

(115)

Cherry Creek State Park

4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, Colorado, 80104, United States

Cherry Creek State Park sits 15 minutes from downtown Denver, offering 125 campsites along an 880-acre reservoir at 5,597 feet elevation. Sites range from tent spots to full-hookup RV sites ($28-$41/night), with well-maintained facilities including showers, laundry, and a camp store. The park charges an $11/day vehicle entrance fee on top of camping fees. Highway noise from nearby roads carries into the campground, though spacious sites (some loops have 40 yards between neighbors) and cottonwood shade soften the urban proximity.

$28.00 - $41.00 / night

11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd., Littleton, Colorado, 80125, United States

Chatfield State Park spreads 197 campsites across paved loops near Littleton, where the plains meet the Rocky Mountain foothills at 5,446 feet. Large, spacious sites sit on concrete pads with grass between them, and neighbors don't crowd each other. Sites run $10-$45 per night and offer electric, water, and sewer hookups. The reservoir is the main draw, with a marina, boat ramps, and miles of paved bike trails.

$10.00 - $45.00 / night

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Echo Lake sits at high elevation in Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests near Idaho Springs, operated by Recreation.gov with a 14-day stay limit. This small alpine campground offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers hike nearby trails, fish the lake, and watch for wildlife against a backdrop of spruce and granite.

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Frequently Visited

4.5

(101)

State Forest State Park

56750 Highway 14, Walden, Colorado, 80480, United States

State Forest State Park sits on 74,000 acres of remote wilderness in northwestern Colorado, where you'll actually have space to yourself. The park has tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals, with fees running $15–50 per night. At 10,413 feet, expect cool nights even in summer and zero cell service outside the designated booster area.

$15.00 - $50.00 / night

Campgrounds

Jackson Lake State Park

C-

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 6% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 152 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade B+.Rules & policies
Grade C+.Things to do
Grade C+.Campsites

Watch-outs

Grade F.Belonging
Grade D.Bugs & weather
Grade D.Cleanliness

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how Colorado grades overall

Explore related camping guides

Jackson Lake State Park appears in our curated guides. Explore more top-rated campgrounds for the same activities and regions.

Swimming Camping in Colorado