State Forest State Park

An alpine lake in the Colorado State Forest.

Colorado State Forest State Park offers a true backcountry experience.

The State Forest State Park, Colorado's largest state park, is a true backcountry experience with 71,000 acres of forest, jagged peaks and alpine lakes.

Fifty miles of hiking-only trails, more than 112 for mountain bikes and horses, and 75 miles of four-wheel-drive roads explore this rugged country, located in sparsely populated Jackson County.

Visitors need to allow time to become acclimated to the high elevation, which ranges from 8,500 to 12,500 feet. Extra precautions against sunburn are necessary.

Moose sightings are almost guaranteed. The herd of 12 moose that were introduced to the forest in 1978 now numbers more than 600. Elk and deer also roam the forest, which the state of Colorado acquired in a land trade with the federal government in 1938.

Fishing in the secluded, crystal-clear mountain steams and ponds is a unique experience. Brook, native, rainbow and brown trout are caught.

The park has 158 campsites at Ranger Lakes, the Crags, North Michigan Reservoir and the Bockman campgrounds. State Park Ranger Lakes campground offers 32 sites with electric hook-ups. Backcountry camping is allowed at Ruby Jewel, Kelly, Clear and American lakes.

The State Forest also has six rustic cabins available for rent year-round. These six cabins are located on the shore of North Michigan Reservoir on the south end of the forest and can be reached by vehicle all year.

Winter camping is permitted.