Northwest of Fort Morgan, Colorado, the Andrick Ponds SWA is a 711-acre protected state wildlife area adjacent to Jackson Lake State Park. There are several parking areas around the perimeter of the SWA, as well as a decoy drop-off on the west side of the area, above Lake #3.
The Andrick Ponds SWA consists of many gravel trails around small bodies of water and is primarily used for bird hunting. During open season, public visitors 18 years and older may access the Andrick Ponds State Wildlife Area with a valid Colorado hunting license, fishing license, or SWA pass. Access is limited to Wednesdays, weekends, and both state and federal holidays.
Activities
Birding: For hunters and bird watchers alike, the Andrick Ponds State Wildlife Area typically sees heavy avian traffic from local and visiting waterfowl. The best chance of seeing birds is during the fall migration season.
Boating: Boating is not permitted on any of the Andrick Ponds State Wildlife Area’s waters.
Camping: Although there is no camping permitted in the Andrick Ponds SWA, there are many opportunities close by in Jackson Lake State Park. Reservations can be made for any of Jackson Lake’s 251 campsites, which are under ½ mile from Andrick Ponds SWA. It should be mentioned that there are no restrooms on-site.
Read about the camping near Fort Morgan and Jackson Lake.
Fishing: Although previously permitted, fishing is not allowed in the Andrick Ponds State Wildlife Area.
Hunting: Andrick Ponds SWA is primarily a hunting area for dove, turkey, and other various waterfowl. Hunting is not permitted around the large, central Clark Lake, but there are many designated areas around the smaller, adjacent bodies of water.
Four hunters are allowed in each designated area at one time and participants are required to check-in and out at the check-in stations located on County Rd AA. There is no access to small or big game hunting in the Andrick Ponds SWA, and target practices, dog training, and centerfire rifle hunting are also prohibited.
Due to droughts on the Eastern Plains, the Andrick Ponds SWA may be at risk of providing insufficient conditions for healthy waterfowl habitats. Please check with local Colorado Parks and Wildlife representatives to inquire about hunting reservations.
Swimming: Swimming is prohibited in all of the Andrick Ponds State Wildlife Area lakes.
Details
Address: Andrick Ponds State Wildlife Area, Orchard, CO 80649
Phone: 970-842-6300
Season: Memorial Day – August 31 | Weekends, Wednesdays, and holidays
Hours: 4 am – 9 pm
Fees: SWA pass, fishing, or hunting license required
Maps: Andrick Ponds SWA Geo (PDF)
Website: cpw.state.co.us…
