· Prairie Oases

Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Prewitt Reservoir is a must-hit stop on any birding trip to the area during migration. Abundant riparian woodland, areas of marshes and prairies, and a lake that, depending on water level, may be absolutely chock-full of shorebirds and ducks make the SWA the perfect migrant trap. Birding at Prewitt tends to fall into two categories – walking the woods looking for passerines, and scanning the lake for waterbirds and shorebirds. For the former, there are two places to check: below the dam and the inlet canal.

The inlet canal tends to do a better job of concentrating birds, and if you only have time to visit one area, this would be the place. Below the dam has more expansive habitat and more variety (including some small marshes), but takes longer to visit.  If you have enough time, visiting both is encouraged. The best place to scan the lake depends on the water level. There are several access points to the lake, and generally the best is right at the beginning of the dam. One can also walk along the dam to reach other parts of the lake, or walk in along the inlet canal.  Hunting occurs on this property so be sure to check for seasonal restrictions before heading out. An annual permit is required unless you have already purchased a valid fishing or hunting license.

County: Washington

Directions: From I-76: exit 102/County Road Q and go one mile north to US 6. Head northeast on US 6 for 3-4 miles to the SWA entrance.

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. Camping prohibited where posted. Fires, target practice, glass containers, and water skiing prohibited.

Parking: Gravel parking area
Lodging: Hotels in Brush or Sterling

Handicapped Access: Some limited car viewing of the lake

Latitude: 40.418369
Longitude: -103.381065

» Visit the website for Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area