Oxbow State Trust Land

The northwestern corner of Colorado isn’t really known for abundant water, so any moisture in the dry sage flats and pinyon-juniper tend to be magnets for wildlife. Oxbow Wildlife Area is no exception, especially during the fall, when it is the best location on this trail for shorebirds. In addition to mudflats present when water levels are low, there is a good marsh with Yellow-headed Blackbird, rails, and dabbling ducks. After the spring lekking season, keep an eye out for Greater Sage-Grouse coming to the oxbow to take a drink. The sage flats you walk through to get to the oxbow are full of Sage Sparrow and Sage Thrashers, as well as Brewer’s and Lark Sparrows.

Restrictions: Mar 1 to Aug 15, watchable wildlife activities allowed only above natural bluff 75 yards from the water on the North edge of the property.

County: Moffat

Directions: From Maybell, travel 17 miles northwest on CO 318 to the parking area, on the left. You will cross the Little Snake River and parking lot is located about a mile further at about mile marker 44.5. Look sharp because the parking lot is becoming overgrown with weeds and is increasingly difficult to recognize.

Alternate Directions: From Maybell, travel 17 miles northwest on CO 318 to the parking area, on the left.

Habitat: Lowland Riparian, Sagebrush, Pond/Lake/Reservoir

Dates of Access: Aug 15 - the end of Feb (Also see Restrictions below for watchable wildlife activities)
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: State Trust Land Board
Admission or Fees: Beginning May 1, 2021, a valid Hunting license, Fishing license, OR State Wildlife Area Pass is required for everyone 16 or older accessing any State Wildlife Area or State Trust Land.

Parking: Gravel parking area

Lodging: None

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: None

Delorme: 13 D6

ROC: 34 A2

Latitude: 40.61102
Longitude: -108.35129

Contact Information

CPW Area Office in Craig: 970-824-3046.

Visit the Website for Oxbow State Trust Land »

Additional Resources

Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L3068391