· Prairie Oases

Jackson Lake State Wildlife Area

Jackson Lake State Wildlife Area offers great birding opportunities for shorebirds and waterfowl along the north side of the reservoir.  Everything from large rafts of waterfowl, to enormous congregations of shorebirds, to some of the best migrant traps around. Time of year plays an important role here, with spring usually having very high water (and thus less shorebird habitat), and fall offering the best overall variety.  Access to the lake itself depends on the water level and time of year.  Boating is allowed, though there isn’t an established boat ramp.  When the water level is low you can walk through the small grove of trees (from the parking area)  and onto the lake bed itself.  The dry margins of the lake bed are a good bet for Mountain Plover during early fall migration, and various sparrow species lurk in the emergent growth.  There are fishing limitations and hunting occurs on this property, so be sure to check seasonal restrictions before visiting.

County: Morgan

Directions: From I-76: exit at Highway 39. Go north for 7.4 miles to Highway 144. Go northeast for 1 mile to CR 5. Go 3.8 miles north to CR CC and head west for 1 mile to CR 4. Go south for 1/4 mile to the parking lot.

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission: 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.

Restrictions: ​Please obey all CPW rules and regulations

Parking: varied
Lodging: Campground in the State Park and hotels in Fort Morgan

Handicapped: Limited
Handicapped Access: Viewing from the car

Latitude: 40.40443
Longitude: -104.07031

» Visit the website for Jackson Lake State Wildlife Area