John Martin Reservoir State Park

On the high plains of southeastern Colorado sits John Martin Reservoir and State Park.  Situated between Las Animas and Lamar, just south of Hasty, John Martin Reservoir is the largest body of water in this part of the state.  The reservoir was named for Colorado congressman, John A. Martin and was completed in 1948.  The lake was built as a flood control project on the Arkansas River.  Its dam is 2.6 miles long and 118 feet high.

The mild climate of this area combined with the lake’s blue waters afford visitors a myriad of activities.  Fishing rewards the angler with catfish, bass, crappie and walleye.  Boating, water skiing and jet skiing are popular activities.  Lake Hasty beach is ideal for swimming in the summer.  There are two campgrounds areas, Lake Hasty and Point, with over 200 campsites.  Lake Hasty area sites have electrical hookups and are large enough for most motor homes or trailers.  Tent camping is available in both areas with picnic tables and fire grills.

Wildlife is abundant in the State Park.  The national bird, the bald eagle, soars around the park in the winter.  Numerous other birds and raptors also call John Martin State Park home including quail, ducks and turkey vultures.  Four legged creatures also abound.  Deer, rabbits, raccoons, prairie dogs and coyote reside in the park.  Hunting is not allowed, but there is a State Wildlife area next to the park.  The visitor center can issue Wildlife Habitat Stamps as well as hunting and fishing licenses.

Hike the Red Shin Trail and see Indian carvings, wildlife and birds.  The trail begins near the dam and ends at a Santa Fe Trail Historic Site. Even though this area is part of the high prairie, there is still plenty of flora and fauna.  There is plenty of shade from the cottonwood trees as well as yucca, sagebrush and prickly pear cactus.

There are also other interesting sites nearby.  The Boggsville Historic Site, Bent’s Old Fort, Big Timbers Museum, Kit Carson Museum and the Otero Museum are all within a short jaunt.