Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Colorado
66

Colorado State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Colorado
East Region
North Sterling State Park
Oh Yell © stateparks.com
Campfire and Hotdogs © stateparks.com
Roasting hot dogs over an open fire.
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
NORTH STERLING STATE PARK
NORTH STERLING STATE PARK
24005 County Road 330
Sterling, Colorado   80751
(lat:40.7785 lon:-103.2666) map location

Phone: 970-522-3657
This large, spacious reservoir on the high plains draws locals and tourists alike from May through September and waterfowl hunters during the hunting season. North Sterling State Park is a gateway to fun and relaxation. Elks Campground is open year-round.

A boater's paradise, this large irrigation reservoir offers great coves and fingers to explore during the spring and summer months. Anglers, boaters and water skiers enjoy the water all day, while land lovers hike, bike, or picnic.
Nature of the Area
One hundred miles due east of the Rocky Mountains, North Sterling Reservoir State Park is nestled in the gently rolling prairie grasslands on the western edge of the Great Plains. The view goes on for miles in every direction, broken only by the bluffs and canyons to the north, with nothing but blue skies above. The whistling wind and unusual quiet can make the scene seem empty and bleak until the coyotes begin their evening song, and you notice the chirrk of alarmed prairie dogs as a red-tailed hawk swoops down for his dinner.

The open prairie may look unremarkable at first glance, but visitors who take the time to look a little closer at the wildlife, plants, and geology of North Sterling State Park will find a hardy ecosystem just as unique and fascinating as any mountain forest.
History of the Area
Established in 1992, this park is located in Logan County, Colorado. It spans over 5,700 acres and includes a large reservoir.

The land was initially used by Native American tribes such as the Cheyenne and Arapaho before European settlement.

In the early 20th century it became part of an irrigation project to support local agriculture with Sterling Reservoir's construction completed in 1911.

It wasn't until decades later that recreational use began gaining popularity leading to its official designation as a state park.

Today it offers various activities like boating, fishing or hiking while hosting diverse wildlife species for nature enthusiasts.
Passes
All Colorado State Parks have entrance fees. All vehicles are required to have an entrance pass and some parks have walk-in fees. Visit the Colorado Park Entrance Pass web page.
Camping
Whether you spend your day playing on land or on the water, you'll find a place to spend the night in one of the 141 campsites in three campgrounds, accommodating everything from the largest motor homes to the smallest pup tent.
Swimming
Located at the south end of the park, the swim beach area provides flush restrooms, a large public picnic pavilion and a playground.
Fishing
Visitors can enjoy shoreline, boat, and ice fishing in the park's reservoir. Common catches include walleye, saugeye, catfish, perch and rainbow trout.


Location
North Sterling State Park is located near Sterling

Picnicking
There are 38 picnic sites throughout the park. Picnic tables with shade shelters are available at the Archery Range and Sunset Cove areas, while tables with grills can be found at the South Boat Ramp, Swimbeach, Cottonwood Cove, Ski Beach Overlook, and Sunset Cove areas.
Trails
North Sterling has a approximately 6.5 miles of trails for hikers of all ages to enjoy. Hikers are reminded to be beware of rattlesnakes and keep pets on a 6 foot maximum leash. Horses and mountain bikes are allowed on the trails. Many trails offer access to fishing and hunting areas as well as access between day use areas.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Directions from Denver, Colorado:

- Start on I-25 N.
- Take exit 216A to merge onto I-76 E towards Fort Morgan.
- Continue for about 125 miles.

From Sterling City Center:

- Head north on S Division Ave toward W Main St.
- Turn right at the first cross street onto CO-Rd14/W Main St and continue to follow CO-Rd14.
- After approximately five miles, turn left into North Sterling State Park entrance.

state route ranger badge
Colorado
66

Colorado State Parks

X