Best Campgrounds near Fort Morgan, CO
Camping options around Fort Morgan, Colorado range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites across the eastern plains. The area features several developed facilities including Brush Memorial Park Campground, Jackson Lake State Park, and Riverside Park Campground. These sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities. Jackson Lake State Park offers year-round camping with electric hookups and water access, while Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area provides more primitive options along its shoreline. For travelers seeking free camping, Pawnee Buttes dispersed camping areas lie approximately 40 miles northwest of Fort Morgan in the Pawnee National Grasslands.
The eastern Colorado plains experience extreme seasonal variations with hot summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though amenities may be limited during winter months. Sites like Brush Memorial Park operate seasonally from April through October. Reservations are recommended for established campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. The open prairie landscape provides minimal shade, and strong winds are common. Visitors should prepare for exposure to elements and potential severe weather. Access to most sites involves maintained gravel roads suitable for standard vehicles. A visitor commented about Jackson Lake State Park: "It was quite windy when we were there. On the other hand, no bugs!"
The region's reservoir-based camping provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Prewitt Reservoir attracts anglers seeking warm-water species like walleye and catfish, while the surrounding wetlands support diverse bird populations. According to one review, "2,400 acre shallow lake with beaches... dispersed camping is permitted around most of the lake. Just look for pre-existing fire rings." The prairie landscape offers expansive views and spectacular sunsets, particularly at Pawnee Buttes where campers enjoy stargazing opportunities away from city lights. Sites closer to Fort Morgan provide convenience for travelers, while those venturing farther into the grasslands find greater solitude. Many campgrounds offer basic amenities like vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, though services like running water and shower facilities vary significantly between locations.
