Cowdrey Reservoir

Cowdrey Reservoir is an 80-acre lake tucked into the wide-open ranch country of North Park in Jackson County, Colorado. Sitting at approximately 8,200 feet elevation just a few miles southwest of the tiny town of Cowdrey and about nine miles north of Walden, this State Wildlife Area offers free dispersed camping, solid trout fishing, and some of the best birdwatching in the North Park region.

The fishing at Cowdrey Reservoir targets brown trout and rainbow trout in cold, clear water. Shore anglers work the accessible banks while small watercraft can be launched for deeper access. The reservoir covers roughly 71 surface acres, giving boat anglers room to explore without feeling crowded. Fly fishing is productive here, especially during morning and evening hatches in summer and early fall. Ice fishing draws a small but dedicated group of winter anglers when conditions permit.

Free dispersed camping is one of the biggest draws for budget-minded visitors. The grounds are wide open with very little tree cover, so bring shade if you need it, but there is plenty of room for large trailers and RVs to spread out comfortably. Vault toilets and parking areas are available. A valid Colorado hunting or fishing license or State Wildlife Area pass is required for anyone 16 or older to access the property, but there is no camping fee beyond that.

Birdwatching at Cowdrey Reservoir is exceptional. The open grasslands and shoreline attract a wide variety of species including raptors, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Visitors regularly report hawks soaring overhead and coyotes calling across the valley. The lack of tree cover means birds are easy to spot across the landscape, and the low visitor count means wildlife stays closer to the water.

The setting is quintessential North Park — vast grass-covered hills rolling toward distant mountain peaks with almost no development in sight. Nights can get cold even in summer, with temperatures dropping into the 30s by September. The silence is striking, broken only by wind, birdsong, and the occasional coyote. Visitors who value solitude over amenities will find Cowdrey Reservoir a rewarding destination. The nearby town of Walden offers basic services including fuel, groceries, propane, a dump station, and potable water for those who need to resupply before or after their stay.