John Martin Reservoir State Park

John Martin Reservoir State Park in southeastern Colorado centers on John Martin Reservoir in Bent County, whose large capacity makes it the state’s second largest body of water by capacity and a striking presence in an otherwise dry landscape. The reservoir is created by John Martin Dam, an earthwork structure 118 feet high and 2.6 miles long. The park is especially important for birdwatching, with Bent County documenting more than 400 bird species. Its surroundings also connect to plains conservation efforts, including the 2022 release of thirty black-footed ferrets at the nearby Southern Plains Preserve, and reflect the region’s cold semi-arid climate.

Colorado · United States