State Forest State Park – Walden, CO | Boating, Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Moose Viewing

The largest state park, State Forest, is 71,000 acres of rugged wilderness in north-central Colorado. Located about 20 minutes south of Walden, State Forest State Park is open year round for recreation. Due to its size and secluded landscape, it feels similar to national forests.

The park is spread out over several sections, some accessible by car and others hike to and 4×4 only. The majority of the park is centered around North Michigan Reservoir. The two other main sections are the Nokhu Crags near Lake Agnes and the Ranger Lakes. Each of those three sections offer camping is is car accessible.

Activities at State Forest

State Forest State Park Road — The main dirt road through the State Forest is well maintained.

Biking: Numerous dirt trails throughout the park, not allowed above treeline or on the Lake Agnes trail.

Boating: Open to wakeless boating on North Michigan Reservoir.

Camping: Yes, The Crags, Ranger Lakes, North Michigan, Bockman, Dispersed Sites and Backcountry Camping.

Campsites are $10-$20 per night.
Four Camper Cabins – $70 per night
Two large Cabins – $100 per night
Seven Yurts and Two Huts – $60-$110 per night.
Backcountry camping permitted 1/4 mile from trail.

Fishing: Lure and bait fishing permitted in North Michigan Reservoir and Ranger Lakes. Only artificial lure and fly are allowed in alpine lakes. Fly fishing is popular along the Canadian and Michigan rivers.

Geocaching: 11 geocaches are hidden within the park. Find them using GPS. 5 geocaches are accessible year round. Units are available for rent at Moose Visitor Center.

Hiking: Miles of outstanding hiking trails are located within the park. The Mountain View Nature Trail and the Beaver Lodge Nature Trail are two short, 1 mile hikes with interpretive sites along the way.

Horseback Riding: Permitted on several trails including the Clear Lake trail and Kelly Lake trail. Not permitted on Lake Agnes trial. Horse corrals are provided at Bockman Campground and the Closure. Red Feather Guides offer horseback tours within the park, redfeatherguides.com.

Hunting: Permitted in certain sections during appropriate seasons.

OHV Riding: More than 50 miles of 4×4 roads exist within the park.

Wildlife Viewing: An abundance of wildlife exists, including a large portion of North Park’s moose population.

Winter Recreation: Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, snowmobiling and ice fishing. Some campsites and cabins remain open.

Meadows and marshes are popular with the moose.