Sometimes called a sapphire on the plains, John Martin is a peaceful paradise in which people play, birds flock and wildlife roams. The park is close to historic landmarks, yet remote enough to attract year-round nature and recreation lovers to stay and explore.
Check us out on facebook at
http://www.facebook.com/JohnMartinReservoirStatePark Please post your biggest catch this season on the reservoir, or any other pictures of camping, fishing, boating, or just hanging out at John Martin Reservoir State Park this year.
One of our local boy scouts has recently provided John Martin State Park with a brand new Geocaching program. Stop by the visitor center for information, coordinates and GPS units to try to find all 6 of the locations on the park.
We are currently looking for Campground Hosts for the upcoming 2013 season. Please contact Scott Reffel at 719-829-1801 if you are interested in learning more, or becoming a 2013 campground host.
John Martin Reservoir provides uncrowded boating, waterskiing, and spectacular conditions for a wide variety of wind water sports. The mild southeastern Colorado weather provides plenty of great days throughout the year.
Anglers from shore or boat catch walleye, saugeye, bass, wiper, crappie, perch, and catfish.
Many consider the park a
birdwatcher's paradise with almost 400 species documented in Bent County. Majestic
Bald Eagles roost here in winter. Threatened and endangered species like the
Piping Plover and the Least Tern make the park their home for several months each year. After the birds go to sleep, the stars entertain in a dramatic display of celestial light.
Fishing
Boating at John Martin
Trout, white bass, wiper, saugeye, catfish and walleye are biting. Check our
fishing page for more information.
Due to low snow pack and early irrigation, water levels are lower than usual for this year. The latest water levels and boat ramp conditions can be viewed by clicking
here.
The boat ramps are now open for the season. We ask that you use the east boat ramp to launch until the water level comes up a bit more. The west boat ramp remains closed for launching. Thank you very much
To prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS), including zebra and quagga mussels, all trailered vessels and all vessels with gas powered motors must be inspected prior to launch and must launch and load at the boat ramps.
Remember to always clean, drain, and dry your vessel to help prevent the spread of ANS.