Lake Henry Reservoir

Lake Henry Reservoir sits on the open plains of Crowley County in southeastern Colorado, offering a quiet escape for anglers, campers, and anyone looking to trade crowds for wide-open skies. Fed by irrigation canals tied to the Arkansas River system, this prairie reservoir provides a refreshingly uncrowded alternative to the Front Range lakes that draw weekend traffic by the hundreds. If solitude is what you are after, Lake Henry delivers.

Fishing is the main draw here. The reservoir supports populations of largemouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and crappie, with the east side of the lake consistently producing the best action according to local anglers. Spring and early summer are prime seasons for bass and catfish, while walleye fishing picks up through fall. Shore fishing access is straightforward around much of the reservoir, and small boats can launch without a formal ramp, though water levels fluctuate throughout the irrigation season.

Free dispersed camping along the reservoir shore makes Lake Henry a genuine budget-friendly destination. Sites are informal and first-come, first-served, so you will want to arrive with everything you need including your own shade structure since trees are scarce on the surrounding prairie. Wind is a constant companion out here, strong enough to make tent camping a challenge on exposed days, so a sturdy setup is essential. Come prepared with fly traps or insect repellent during warmer months, as biting flies can be aggressive near the water.

Bird watching is surprisingly rewarding at Lake Henry. The reservoir and surrounding grasslands attract shorebirds, raptors, and migrating waterfowl, especially during spring and fall migration windows. The wide horizon also makes this one of the better stargazing spots on the eastern plains, with virtually no light pollution to dim the night sky.

There are no developed facilities at Lake Henry Reservoir. No restrooms, no potable water, and no trash service, so pack in and pack out everything. Cell service is limited to nonexistent in some areas around the lake. The nearest supply stops are in Ordway or Sugar City, both a short drive away. Despite the bare-bones setup, visitors consistently praise the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to fish without competing for shoreline space.