Hot Creek State Wildlife Area
This remote state wildlife area has an enormous spring system with extensive marshy areas that are good for rails, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Savannah Sparrow and other species typical of this habitat. Pinyon Jays can usually be found in the surrounding pinyon-juniper forest. The road in requires high clearance, mostly due to a stream crossing with 2-3 feet of water. The wet meadows surrounding the springs are excellent for many rare and beautiful butterfly species, including Nokomis Fritillary, Sandhill Skipper, Ruddy Copper, and more.
Restrictions: High-clearance vehicle required for the entrance road. Snowmobiles prohibited. Area closed Jan 1 to April 30
County: Conejos
Directions: From the junction of US 285 and CO 15, about 13 miles south of Alamosa, turn right (west) onto CO 15 and travel for 10.5 miles. Turn left onto FR 255. Go 2.8 miles from the intersection of CO 15 and FR 255 and take a left onto an unmarked rough road (Hot Creek Road). A low-clearance vehicle will not be able to travel far on this road. The best habitat is from one to two miles in.
Alternate Directions: From the junction of US285 and CO 15 in La Jara, take CO 15 west for 10 miles to where it bends north. Turn left onto FR 255 (Conejos CR X) and go approximately 2 miles to the 4x4 entance road, on the left. Park here and walk, or, if you have a 4x4, drive into the SWA.
Habitat: Wet Meadow, Pinyon-Juniper Forest
Dates of Access: May 1 to Dec. 31
Hours:
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: A valid hunting or fishing license, or State Wildlife Area pass is required for everyone 16 or older accessing any state wildlife area or state trust lands.
Parking: Roadside/gravel parking area
Lodging: None
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Limited
Delorme: 90 B1
ROC: 134 B1-2
Latitude: 37.28168
Longitude: -106.20243