Jackson Lake State Park offers camping opportunities on Colorado's eastern plains about 70 miles northeast of Denver. The park sits at an elevation of 4,444 feet with an irrigation reservoir covering 2,700 acres. Weather conditions range from hot summer days reaching 100°F to cooler spring and fall temperatures in the 70s, with persistent winds common throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing at Prewitt Reservoir: Located about 30 miles east of Orchard, this 2,431-acre lake provides fishing for walleye, saugeye, rainbow trout, bluegill, crappie and channel catfish. "Fishing is harder from the shore. I would recommend a boat, kayak, or a canoe if you have one. Early in the morning around 6am and afternoon around 4 they will be very active," advises Seth.
Birdwatching at Crow Valley: The campground connects to a wildlife walking trail with excellent bird spotting opportunities. "Really nice host. Shaded spots next to a wildlife walk. Tons of birds! Campsites were clean, nice big fire pit and bbq. Lots of room to spread out," notes Megan M. The nearby Pawnee birding driving tour starts and ends at this location.
Disc golf at Brush Memorial Park: The municipal park adjacent to the campground offers disc golf facilities along with other recreational amenities. "Memorial Park was pet friendly, heated restrooms and showers, picnic shelters, playground, and disc golf. There was also a fishing pond across the street," reports Shannon G.
What campers like
Secluded butte views: Pawnee Buttes Dispersed Camping offers unobstructed views of eastern Colorado's unique geological features. "We camped on an overlook a quarter mile or so from the Pawnee Buttes trailhead which had beautiful, clear views of the sunrise and sunset. The night sky is beautiful and full of stars," shares Kris M.
Open space in off-season: Several campgrounds become especially quiet during shoulder seasons. "We went 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," explains Patti C. about Jackson Lake State Park.
Reservoir beaches: Prewitt Reservoir offers beach camping, which is unusual for Colorado. "2,400 Acre shallow lake with beaches. Late season creates a wide sand flat on the southwest end of the reservoir that is pleasant to let the dogs romp on," notes Robert C., making this a dog friendly campground near Orchard when water levels drop.
What you should know
Wind exposure: The eastern plains provide little natural protection from prevailing winds. "Wind can be an issue, so always put down awnings/canopies and secure belongings before leaving site," Jennifer L. advises about Jackson Lake State Park.
Seasonal insect activity: Mosquitoes and other insects can be problematic, particularly near water sources. "It was very busy and took a lot of driving around to find a potential spot... Very buggy but other than that it's very pretty," reports Hoody S. about Prewitt Reservoir.
Limited shade: Most campgrounds in the area have minimal tree cover. "About 75% are full timers and a couple have dogs that don't know what leashes are. Showers have hot water and fairly clean," mentions Chris M. about Emerald RV Park, one of the dog friendly camping areas near Orchard that offers basic amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Cottonwood Campground at Boyd Lake State Park offers family-friendly water activities. "Great family campground near the water and a nice walking/biking path to the beach. Perfect for families," says Jacque U.
Educational activities: Crow Valley offers natural learning opportunities for children. "When you think Colorado you think endless mountains, but a good chunk of CO is prairie and grasslands. We enjoyed exploring this part of the state, complete with pronghorn antelopes, deer, birds, burrowing owls, sunsets, crazy thunderstorms," explains Irene L.
Overnight proximity: For families traveling through the region, some campgrounds offer convenient stopping points. "We needed to stop on the way to the mountains and most places were full but we found a spot in Brush. The first night was free and after that it was $20," notes Shannon G., highlighting Brush Memorial Park Campground as a budget-friendly option.
Tips from RVers
Electric considerations: Electrical service can vary significantly between campsites. "Sites are level with what appears to be full-hookups at all sites. Front desk was very helpful and check in was easy. Showed up with no reservation and was in my spot quickly," explains Andrew D. about Emerald RV Park.
Highway proximity: Several RV parks are situated near major transportation routes. "This is a very basic campground with no trees/shade and is close to the marina. There is a bathroom, but with no plumbing and no mirrors (bring your own TP!). Make sure you DO NOT PARK ON THE GRASS - the Rangers here are very strict," warns Ali G.
Site levelness: Many campsites in the region require minimal leveling. "Just spent the night. It was nice and quiet. The spot we picked was pretty level. Lots of area for walking and exploring," shares Nancy B. about Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area, another dog friendly campground option near Orchard.
