Seymour Lake

Seymour Lake is a small, remote lake in Jackson County's North Park region, surrounded by open rangeland and distant mountain views that define this sparsely populated corner of northern Colorado. Getting here requires a long but smooth dirt-road drive that filters out casual visitors and rewards those who make the trip with genuine solitude, abundant wildlife, and one of the more rustic camping experiences you can find without a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

The wildlife at Seymour Lake is the headline attraction. American white pelicans gather here in large, noisy groups that seem almost improbable for such a small body of water. Visitors consistently express amazement at watching dozens of pelicans feeding and socializing on the lake surface. Beyond the pelicans, birders can expect bald eagles, mallard ducks, diving ducks, Canada geese, cormorants, gulls, swallows, and various other species. Moose have been spotted right at the restroom area, and the surrounding North Park grasslands support elk, pronghorn, and other large mammals. If wildlife viewing is your thing, Seymour Lake punches well above its weight.

Fishing and horseback riding are the other primary activities here. The lake supports enough fish to draw anglers willing to make the drive, though water levels fluctuate and can run low by midsummer. Horseback riders appreciate the open terrain and lack of crowds. The camping setup is basic but functional: five fire rings spaced along the lakeshore, one picnic table, and a pit toilet. There is no potable water, no electricity, and no hookups. Bring your own firewood, as the immediate area has limited timber. Space for parking RVs or multiple vehicles is tight, so this works best for tent campers or small self-contained rigs.

Seymour Lake is a summer and early-fall destination only. The access road is not plowed in winter, and conditions can turn impassable after early snowfall. Even in summer, come prepared for wind. North Park sits in a broad high-altitude basin, and strong gusts are common throughout the day. Pack layers, secure your tent and gear, and plan meals that do not depend on calm conditions.

One recurring issue noted by visitors is litter left by previous campers. If you visit, bring a trash bag and pack out everything. This is the kind of place that stays special only if the people who use it take care of it. Seymour Lake is not glamorous or well-known, and that is precisely why it deserves a spot on your Jackson County itinerary.