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Crawford State Park: A Western Slope Oasis

Discover outdoor adventures and scenic beauty at Crawford State Park, a Western Slope gem offering camping, fishing, and watersports.

4.5

Nestled in the heart of Colorado's Western Slope, Crawford State Park is a scenic escape surrounding the 400-acre Crawford Reservoir. Offering a blend of outdoor activities and stunning mountain views, the park is a haven for camping, fishing, watersports, and wildlife observation. With a mild climate and a peaceful atmosphere, Crawford State Park provides a relaxing and adventurous experience for all.

A brief summary to Crawford State Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the off-peak season for a more peaceful experience and fewer crowds.
  • Check the reservoir's water levels before planning water activities, especially in late summer.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to a diverse array of species.
  • Reserve campsites in advance, especially during peak season, through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife reservation system.
  • Explore nearby attractions like the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the town of Crawford, head south on CO-92 for approximately 1 mile. The park entrance will be on your right. A daily vehicle pass costs $10-$12. The park office and visitor center is located on the east side of the park; turn right off Highway 92 before you reach the Clear Fork campground.

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Discover more about Crawford State Park

Crawford State Park, established in 1964, is a 760-acre park that beckons adventurers to the Western Slope of Colorado. The park's centerpiece is the Crawford Reservoir, a 400-acre lake perfect for a variety of water activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and swimming in the designated swim beach area. Two boat ramps provide easy access to the water, though low water levels may affect accessibility in late summer. Fishing is a major draw, with the reservoir teeming with Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, and Rainbow Trout. During the winter months, ice fishing is a popular activity when the ice is thick enough. Birdwatchers will delight in the hundreds of bird species that call the park home. The park offers 64 campsites across two campgrounds: Iron Creek and Clear Fork. Iron Creek has 45 sites with water and electric hookups, while Clear Fork offers 21 more primitive sites. Camping is available year-round at Clear Fork. For those seeking a more comfortable stay, the nearby town of Crawford offers lodging options including bed and breakfasts, motels, and cabins. Beyond the reservoir, Crawford State Park features 1.8 miles of trails for hiking and biking. The trails wind through pinyon-juniper woodlands, sagebrush, and grasslands, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The park is also conveniently located near other attractions, including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Needle Rock, and the West Elk Mountains.

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