John Martin Reservoir State Park offers pet-friendly camping options near Hasty, Colorado at 3,851 feet elevation. The park spans 11,464 acres with campsites situated on the plains of southeastern Colorado where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Winter camping remains available with temperatures dropping below freezing during December through February.
What to do
Stargazing at night: Point Campground at John Martin Reservoir State Park provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "When the sun went down the stargazing was incredible! saw at least 40 satellites and several shooting stars," reports Stephanie S. The wide-open setting with minimal light pollution creates optimal viewing conditions.
Fishing opportunities: The reservoir attracts anglers year-round. "John Martin Reservoir is huge and is a big draw for fishermen and boaters," notes Judy B. about Lake Hasty Campground. During spring and fall, fishing tends to be most productive when water levels are higher.
Bird watching: Wildlife viewing is excellent throughout the area. "The area is home to many birds including hawks, herons, and pelicans," states one visitor. Neenoshe Reservoir also provides bird watching opportunities with one camper noting "Lots of birds singing" during their stay.
What campers like
Lakeside sites: "We got a site right on the lake and it was beautiful!" writes a camper about Lake Hasty Campground. These premium sites offer direct water views but fill quickly during summer months, especially weekends.
Clean facilities: Visitors frequently mention the maintained bathrooms and showers at Sundance High Plains RV Park & Cabins. "Facility is all gravel. Plenty of room to maneuver. Nice grass area for dogs," reports Melanie T. The park maintains designated pet exercise areas on grassy terrain.
Accessibility and convenience: Many campgrounds provide easy access for travelers. "We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and Sundance High Plains RV Park. From the wonderful welcome we received when we checked in to the amenities of the Park it was great. Moderately priced, attractive, and accommodating," shares Ross K. The location serves well for those traveling along Highway 50 or 287.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The plains experience extreme temperatures and strong winds. At Point Campground, one camper noted: "It was really windy, I enjoyed that. The lake view and rocky shores were beautiful." Another visitor cautioned: "No shade. No view, can't camp next to the water. Literally just a field."
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds require advance booking. "This is a by reservation only campground, which I did not know about before arriving as I was traveling and this was not my intended stopping point for the night," reports one visitor about Point Campground. Check reservation policies before arrival, especially during summer months.
Additional fees: State park camping involves multiple charges. "I made a reservation online totaling $30.71, to arrive and having to pay an additional $10 for a Colorado State Park Daily Pass. On top of that, the showers are coin-operated," explains Meghan B. Budget accordingly for these additional expenses.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Hasty offer play areas for children. "Nice campground. Nice equipment for kids to play," mentions Heidi C. about Lake Hasty Campground. The playground sits adjacent to camping loops under shade trees.
Swimming opportunities: Neenoshe Reservoir provides water access when levels permit. However, one visitor noted: "This lake bed is nearly dry so the camping was super empty." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting swimming possibilities.
Wildlife education: Camping provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Lots of owls. Lots of birds to watch. Bathrooms were a bit of a walk, but we were right next to the playground. Did some fishing, had a muskrat steal our fish," shares Lisa K. Parents should supervise children due to wildlife encounters including rattlesnakes.
Tips from RVers
Space between sites: La Junta KOA provides well-designed RV spaces. "Very nice clean and convenient campground. Sites are well equipped and the prices are very affordable," notes John F. The campground includes pull-through sites with hookups positioned for easy access.
Storage and parking configuration: Sundance High Plains requires specific parking considerations. One RVer advises: "Tip — park further away from hookups than you think you should." This allows better alignment with utilities and more space for slide-outs.
Pet-friendly RV options: Pet owners looking for dog friendly campgrounds around Hasty will appreciate Sportsman's RV Park & Horse Motel. "We were traveling through and needed a place to crash for the night so we decided to stop in for the night... Was a great family friendly environment and pet friendly... Would recommend them without hesitation," shares Fred G. The facility accommodates both pets and horses for travelers.
