Jackson Lake State Park
00 review26363 County Rd. 3, Orchard, Colorado, 80649, United States
Jackson Lake State Park
$36.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$36.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees appear to be $36 across the board, according to user reviews. This includes basic campsites, and no further information is provided about premium or additional fees.
About this campground
Escape to Jackson Lake State Park, where 260 campsites await adventurers seeking the perfect blend of water recreation and prairie tranquility. This high-plains oasis welcomes RVs, trailers, and tent campers alike, offering natural shade and thoughtfully placed shelters throughout the grounds. Whether you're drawn to thrilling water sports, peaceful bird watching, or simply soaking in nature's rhythms, this versatile park delivers experiences as vast as the Colorado sky above.
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 SignificanceWhile the park's story is still being written by each visitor who passes through, a touching memorial bench nestled between sites 6 and 8 serves as a quiet reminder of the connections people forge with this special place. Here, generations of families have created their own histories beneath the wide prairie sky.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of Colorado's high plains, where each season paints the landscape with its own dramatic brush. Summer brings warm days perfect for lake activities, though savvy visitors come prepared for the enthusiastic bug population. Spring and fall offer the sweet spot – comfortable temperatures ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter transforms the park into a serene retreat, where hardy souls find solitude and crisp, quiet beauty. Be ready for the prairie's signature winds and sudden storms that roll across the open landscape, adding excitement to any outdoor adventure.
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 SceneryStep into a landscape where water meets prairie in spectacular fashion. The shimmering reservoir serves as a magnet for diverse wildlife, including magnificent pelicans during their seasonal migrations and countless waterfowl that call these waters home. The surrounding high plains grasslands wave in the constant breeze, creating a golden sea punctuated by hardy vegetation. Visitors consistently marvel at the lake's beauty and the sweeping vistas that make every sunrise and sunset a memorable show.
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.
Campsite details
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.
Sites 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."
Sites 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 CampsitesSites 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 CampsitesSite #4 is praised for its pull-through accessibility and lakeside location. Sites with tree coverage are also noted for privacy and protection from wind.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops and sections designated for various types of camping, including RVs and tents.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season seems to align with Memorial Day through Labor Day, as noted in reviews about frequent visits during this period.
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.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
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
Hiking trails are available, but limited details on trail conditions or difficulty are provided. A user mentioned, "No place to hike," suggesting some dissatisfaction.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, though experiences vary. One user noted, "The lake is good for fishing," while another said, "Not good fishing from shore, lots of rocks along shoreline." Algae and water levels also impact fishing quality.Swimming
Swimming is possible in designated areas; however, user reviews highlight issues such as algae and infestations of red ants at the swim beach. One reviewer stated, "Dead rotten fish had not been cleaned up and a massive ant infestation made it difficult to enjoy the beach."Biking
Biking is listed as an available activity, but no specific feedback is provided in the reviews.Boating
The lake supports various boating activities, including motorboats, sailboats, and jet skis. A reviewer mentioned, "Great for boating, jet skiing, and paddle boarding!" Boat rentals are also available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include pelicans, raccoons, coyotes, and eagles. A reviewer noted, "Eagles and owls hunt the plains and will stop along the trees on the shoreline," and another added, "Pelicans are here during the summer months."Beach activities
Beach-related activities include swimming and sunbathing, though the beach quality is criticized for algae, red ants, and overcrowding during peak times.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are offered, though no detailed reviews describe specific topics or schedules.Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice fishing, though details on conditions or popularity are sparse.Water Sports
Water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and water skiing are popular. Reviews highlight the lake's suitability for these activities, though algae and water levels can affect enjoyment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies are noted, but user reviews mention fire pits at campsites.
- Quiet hours are not enforced effectively, as user reviews describe loud music and partying late into the night.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews 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.
Active alertsNo official warnings are provided, but user reviews mention deteriorating maintenance quality, broken restroom facilities, and algae growth in the lake.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services can be contacted via the provided park numbers (9706452551). Specific details about the nearest hospital or police station are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day (approximately last weekend of May through early September).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but not consistently cleaned. One reviewer said, "Our campsite had trash and debris from previous campers."
Proximity to 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.
Common complaintsComplaints include mosquito infestations, deteriorating restroom and shower facilities, poorly maintained campsites, and issues with campsite levelness.
HostUser reviews describe camp hosts as 'worthless' and ineffective in enforcing rules or maintaining quiet hours.
Campground Map
26363 County Rd. 3, Orchard, Colorado, 80649, United States
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.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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Jackson Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the park's natural beauty, spacious campsites, and access to water-based activities like boating and paddleboarding. Wildlife, including pelicans and eagles, is often highlighted.
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...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers advise bringing bug spray, avoiding peak times for a quieter experience, and considering weekday stays to avoid crowds. One user suggested, "Plan ahead and make reservations before leaving...
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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...
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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."
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #35 is handicap-accessible. Sites #13, #17, #18, and #19 are criticized for being near a trailer court with bright lights, reducing the park's 'Dark Sky' appeal. Site #239 offers beautiful lake...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are noted, such as site #35 for handicapped visitors, but the park is criticized for lacking accessible fishing locations.
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.
Last updated August 10, 2025