Colorado State Park Profile: North Sterling State Park

On the plains of northeastern Colorado, North Sterling State Park may draw boaters and anglers to its 3,000 acres of pristine water, but it certainly doesn’t disappoint landlubbers who enjoy Elks Campground year-round, or early-morning wildlife viewers trying to spot a hawk, an eagle or other wildlife.

By: Colorado.com Staff Writer
Updated: March 13, 2024

Bikers and hikers enjoy the 3.5-mile South Shoreline Trail, while waterfowl hunters are permitted in designated areas from the first Tuesday after Labor Day to the Thursday before Memorial Day.

Gain a new appreciation for the wildlife and plants that thrive on the plains by checking out a free Family Activity Backpack from the Visitor Center that includes a nature journal, bug boxes, magnifiers, binoculars and a field guide. The Visitor Center also loans out life jackets and a handheld GPS unit. While there, pick up a Geohunt Scavenger Hunt Activity guide to complete.

Magic Moments

Glimpse the nesting bald eagles as they hunt for food for their families on the north shore of the reservoir. Catch a wiper bass or walleye that’ll be big enough for a tall tale. Enjoy the serenity of a sunset picnic on the water.

Extend Your Trip

Fort Sedgwick MuseumKit Carson County CarouselOld Town MuseumOverland Trail MuseumSouth Platte River Trail Scenic and Historic Byway

Nearby Towns

BurlingtonFort MorganJulesburgSterling