If you’re headed to Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado, and want to skip the spa, the Hot Sulphur State Wildlife Area is a great place to enjoy the outdoors in Grand County. Despite its small 22-acre property size, the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA is popular for its rifle ranges, campgrounds, and fishing opportunities.
In total, the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA is divided into 7 separate properties. The most visited areas are the Lone Buck Unit, which is located 3 miles southwest of Hot Sulphur Springs, and the Pioneer Park unit, which is located on the north shore of the Colorado River across from the center of the town.
The Hot Sulphur SWA is bordered by BLM, private, and Arapaho National Forest land.
Activities in Hot Sulphur Springs State Wildlife Area
To visit the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA, a public lands, hunting, or fishing license is required for every individual that is 18 years or older. Aside from this, there are no fees to use the picnic, parking, shooting, or camping areas. There are many scattered restroom facilities throughout the SWA.
Birding and Wildlife: Birding and wildlife viewing is a popular activity in the remote units of the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA, away from the rifle ranges. The Joe Gerrans Campground is located near the confluence of the Colorado River and Beaver Creek, and is the best area for spotting nesting thrushes, warblers, and sapsuckers.
On land, visitors can spot mule deer, elk, and even the occasional moose in the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA.
Camping: Free, primitive campsites are available throughout the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA, and camping is only permitted in designated areas. There is a 14 day limit for camping in any 30 day period, and visitors are required to pack out all of their trash.
Fishing: In the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA, fishing in the Colorado River and surrounding creeks is very popular for licensed anglers looking to catch a variety of native trout species. Bowfishing is prohibited.
Hunting: Hunting is permitted in the Hot Sulphur Springs SWA, with a valid state license. Big and small game opportunities are available.
Bowhunting is permitted, however, all firearms or bows may only be discharged in designated safety zones. Rifle ranges are only permitted for use during daylight hours and there is a separate archery/shotgun range located onsite.
Picnicking: Picnic tables are available near the Paul F. Gilbert Fishing Area, as well as in Pioneer Park. If you’re looking to spend some leisure time outdoors, Pioneer Park features a disc golf course, horseshoe pits, playground equipment, and more.
Details
Address: Hot Sulphur Springs State Wildlife Area, Parshall, CO, 80468
Phone: 970-725-6200
Season: Open during hunting season
Hours: 24/7
Fees: Valid state fishing, hunting, or public lands license required
Maps: (PDFs)
Website: cpw.state.co.us/state-wildlife-areas/hot-sulphur-springs-swa