If you’re looking for some outdoor fun and relaxation, look no further than North Sterling State Park (http://bit.ly/2Jz4onU), located just a short drive from Sterling in Logan County.
The 3,000-acre irrigation reservoir boasts two boat ramps for those wanting to enjoy a day on the water. Explore the great coves and fingers of the lake, take in the wildlife and geographical formations, find a shady spot for a picnic or cast a line into the warm-water fishery.
North Sterling is open to fishing year-round, featuring walleye, crappie, perch, bass, bluegill, trout, catfish, tiger muskie, wiper and northern pike. Please refer to the Colorado Fishing Regulations published annually by Colorado Parks and Wildlife for a complete listing of size restrictions and possession limits.
PJ Marina, located by the Visitor Center, is accessible from the north entrance or by water. The marina is open weekend hours through Labor Day, contingent upon water levels, with extended holiday hours. They offer seasonal and daily boat slip rentals, firewood, fuel and bait, as well as the supplies you’ll need to enjoy your campsite.
Natural surface trails offer miles of options for those on foot, bike or horseback. For archery enthusiasts, an 11-station range boasts 18 targets, including three sight-in targets, at 20, 30 and 40 yards for field tips or target tips only. The park also offers a designated star-gazing area near the campgrounds on the south side, where you can enjoy the wonders of the night sky away from pesky night pollution.
Prairie wildlife is abundant in the park, on the ground and in the air. Land-based animals of all sizes and species call the park home, from prairie dogs to coyotes, badgers, deer and antelope. Bird-watchers will enjoy sighting a wide variety of raptors, including golden eagles, red-tailed hawks and American kestrels, among other types of birds. A complete Bird Species List can be found on the park website or at the Visitor Center, and guided bird walks can be arranged by calling 970-522-3657.
Hunting is carefully managed and permitted during established seasons from the first Tuesday after Labor Day through the Friday before Memorial Day. Hunting area maps are available at the Sterling Visitor Center and south entrance brochure kiosk.
The park boasts three campgrounds with a total of 141 campsites. It can accommodate the largest motor homes as well as the smallest pup tents, with 50 developed sites available year-round. View fees and make reservations for any of the campgrounds online at cpw.state.co.us/.