The eastern plains of Colorado surrounding Fort Morgan sit at approximately 4,600 feet elevation. This high plains region experiences temperature swings of up to 40 degrees between day and night, with frequent strong winds across the open landscape. Camping sites near Fort Morgan provide access to expansive prairie views and reservoir-based recreation, though most offer minimal natural shade due to the grassland terrain.
What to do
Fishing at Prewitt Reservoir: This 2,400-acre reservoir offers excellent warm-water fishing opportunities. Located northwest of Fort Morgan, Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area attracts anglers seeking multiple species. "Warm-water reservoir stocked with walleye, saugeye, rainbow and cuttbow trout. Other fill include bluegill, crappie and channel catfish," notes Laura H.
Hiking at Pawnee Buttes: The distinctive twin buttes rise approximately 300 feet above the surrounding grasslands, offering a unique geological focal point. "We did the hikes to both of the 'buttes'. From the second one you can get nice aerial views if you climb a bit. It took us 3h in a very easy pace, lots of photo and views stops," reports Wild Berries B.
Bird watching in grasslands: The eastern plains support diverse bird populations throughout the year. "The campground is very quiet and clean. There is great bird watching in this area. The Pawnee Buttes Trail is close and a wonderful hike in the cooler months or early morning," shares Shannon O. about Crow Valley.
What campers like
Open space camping: Many campers appreciate the unobstructed views and sense of solitude. "Multiple dispersed campsites approaching the Pawnee Buttes trailhead from the west and southwest. I camped (rooftop tent) on the bluff overlooking the trailhead parking lot. Spectacular view of the Pawnee Buttes to the east. Perfect spot to catch sunrise and sunset," notes J A. about Pawnee Buttes Dispersed Camping.
Water-adjacent sites: The region's reservoirs provide water access for recreation and cooling during hot summer months. "We stayed during off season and the campground was very isolated until the weekends so we had lots of room to explore and play without having others around," writes Patti C. about Jackson Lake State Park.
Dark sky stargazing: The remote prairie locations offer minimal light pollution for astronomical viewing. "This area is also a 'dark site,' so on clear, moonless nights the stars / Milky Way are phenomenal," explains a reviewer about Pawnee Buttes. Another camper confirms: "Quiet & Beautiful. Flat spots, great views, felt safe, nice and quiet. Great place to star gaze on clear nights."
What you should know
Wind exposure: The open plains provide little natural wind protection, which can impact tent camping. "The night sky is beautiful and full of stars, though not completely dark since we could see lights from nearby private lands. The only negative was wind. It was very windy, especially at night (the wind rocked the car most of the night). It wasn't an issue for us sleeping in the car, but I wouldn't tent camp," warns Kris M.
Seasonal insects: Bug activity varies significantly by season, often peaking in summer months. "While the campground was just fine for an overnight stop, we would not have stayed more than one night. The bugs were very horrible. While I know that it's part of camping, they were swarming so bad you heard a constant loud buzzing," notes Anna about Jackson Lake State Park Campground.
Water level fluctuations: Reservoir levels can change dramatically through seasons, affecting both recreation and campsite access. "The lake must be very low, looked about halfway full. Looked a little sad with how little water there was in it. For the price, I would say it is a little expensive for how it looked this time of year. Might be better during the summer months," shares another Jackson Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Municipal parks with amenities: Some local towns offer camping with additional recreation facilities. "Memorial Park was pet friendly, heated restrooms and showers, picnic shelters, playground, and disc golf. There was also a fishing pond across the street," explains Shannon G. about Brush Memorial Park Campground.
Structured activities: Several parks provide organized family programming. "Great for taking kids, fishing is awesome the swim beach is lots of fun too. Everytime we go we meet new friends! The amphitheater always has fun family type activities which is cool," shares Casandra L. about Jackson Lake State Park.
Site selection for shade: Limited tree cover makes finding shade a priority for family comfort. "Some sites are well shaded, others are zero shade. Check google satellite images to find sites that are good for shade," recommends Jennifer L., noting that "Great for families. Wind can be an issue, so always put down awnings/canopies and secure belongings before leaving site."
Tips from RVers
Electrical reliability: RVers should monitor power connections carefully in some locations. "Will never ever camp here again! Our camp trip cost us an additional $400 because our site #42 fried our surge protector. We had to run and buy a new one as soon as we realized we had no power and the surge protector would not work or even supply any power due to the fact This site is not grounded!" warns Karen A.
Pull-through convenience: At North Sterling State Park Campground, the layout accommodates larger rigs. "We stopped overnight and loved the pull-through sites of the inlet grove sites. I would stick to the sites furthest from the water because the geese were very loud and honk non-stop. I think our site was the best (140) because we didn't face any other site, were at the end, and it felt private," shares Alma L.
Utility access planning: Water connections may require additional equipment at some campgrounds. "Connections are a little far for some RV models, so make sure you have extensions for cords and hoses just in case," advises Christopher H.
