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The best camping near John Martin Reservoir State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next John Martin Reservoir adventure.

67% (3 reviews)
67% (3 reviews)

This high plains oasis offers two bodies of water, historic sites, and an abundance of birds.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near John Martin Reservoir State Park

Saved 55 times

ScrapHouse the Sanctuary

8 sites ¡ RVs, TentsLa Junta , CO
We're a collective of carers creating a church of creation in homage to creativity and the spirit amused by creation! We have two sites currently with one being actively worked on. You can assist with this vision in Colorado and be a part of the process from inception picking up a skill or two along the way as you share your worth and expertise. You can also just come to share in our space and cut from the inundation of the everyday either way we hope to see you & appreciate your interest!Learn more about this land:We're pretty rough at the moment yet have 1/3 acre of raw land to pitch a tent or boondock on. If your interested in building a micro community we're looking for longer term stayers and can offer a type of grant program for space and some boarding in exchange for your sweat equity donated to the project. For in depth information please contact via email to allow discuss. Appreciations!
from 
$5
 / night
95%
(29)

Saylestates

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents7 acres ¡ Ordway, CO
I arrived in the States and in Colorado in particular almost 3 decades ago; this small rural western town became home.  I began planting orchards, shelter trees, acquiring animals, hosting trans-american cyclists and work exchange helpers. In 2008 most of it burned down in a county wild fire.... so it all started over again.... setting up a replacement house, rebuilding 6 barns, replanting 600 trees and restretching fencing. No critters were lost for which I am grateful. Nature can and will heal herself if allowed. There's a lot going on here again.
from 
$25
 / night
67%
(3)

Whispering Wind Desert Oasis

21 sites ¡ RVs, Tents81 acres ¡ La Junta, CO
This property is rich in Native American history. It is nestled close to the Commanche National Grasslands.Learn more about this land:Our beautiful valley is serenity defined. It is barely touched by man .It offers a place to realign yourself with nature, reset your internal clocks and enjoy the simplicity of how life should be. Time stands still here as the winds whisper long forgotten secrets through the twists and turns of this awe inspiring piece of property. Nestled close to the Comanche National Grasslands, rich in history and beauty.... points of interest, Santa Fe Trail, Madonna of the Trail monument, Bents Fort, Pikes Tower, Big Timbers Museum, Commanche National Grasslands Dinasour Tracks, Picket Wire Trail
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near John Martin Reservoir State Park guide

Overview

About

In the Lower Arkansas River Valley in southeastern Colorado, the “sapphire of the plains” features a large reservoir and a small lake, the well-stocked Lake Hasty. The reservoir is best for uncrowded boating and water sports, while anglers can fish from either body of water. This spot is a birdwatcher’s paradise with nearly 400 species of birds, including bald eagles, piping plovers, and least terns. Several hiking and biking trails offer land-based exploration, winding past historic sites and petroglyphs. With three campgrounds made up of RV sites, tent sites, and group campsites, there’s a good amount of space for overnight stays.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for shade and amenities: Lake Hasty Campground offers 109 sites with plenty of shade, electric hookups, and a full-service camper station.
  • Best for spacious sites and reservoir views: The shade-less Point Campground has 104 big but basic campsites with potable water, vault toilets, and views of the reservoir.
  • Best for groups: The Caddoa Group Campground offers groups their own secluded area.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Make your peak season reservation as soon as you know your dates. All campsites require a reservation, which can be made on the same day and up to six months in advance.
  2. If your plans are flexible, try to visit the year-round park during the week, during non-holiday periods, or in winter. 
  3. Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campsite.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time at John Martin. The Lake Hasty Swim Beach is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, while boat ramps are closed from November 1 to March 15 to allow for waterfowl resting. Winter is the time to see bald eagles, while piping plover and interior least tern can be seen from mid-April to late August. Seasonal facilities at Lake Hasty Campground (including the camper services building and fish cleaning station) are open from April 1 to September 30.

Know before you go

  • Boats may only launch from the boat ramps in the reservoir. Swimming and fishing are not permitted on or near ramps. Only hand-launched, non-motorized vessels or those with electric motors are allowed on Lake Hasty.
  • Lake Hasty offers a seasonal swim beach but no lifeguards. Fishing licenses are required.
  • Fishing is not permitted from the boat docks. Hunting is not permitted inside the park but is allowed in the adjoining John Martin State Wildlife Area with appropriate licenses.
  • Lake Hasty offers several ADA-accessible campsites, along with an accessible pier and picnic area.
  • Fires are only permitted in provided fire pits. Do not collect firewood or bring firewood from another state.

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