North Sterling State Park

Copyright: - Colorado State Parks North Sterling State Park

This park entered the state park system relatively recently, therefore some of the facilities are still under construction. Three boat ramps line the eastern shore, one of which is made specifically for low water. A campground on the northeastern shore provides 50 modern sites with electricity, tables, grills and water. Three other campgrounds are close to completion each with 50 modern sites. A campers services building provides showers and laundry facilities.

Three picnic areas line the shores of Sterling Reservoir. A group picnic ground lies close to the campground and can be reserved. Two other sites provide shelter, tables and grills on the banks of the reservoir.

A full-service marina is located north of the spillway. It provides modern facilities, boat rentals, slips, storage facilities, fuel, food and fishing licenses. The marina is open from May through September.

Recreation - Recreation in North Sterling State Park is focused upon water. Boating and fishing are the most popular activities. Swimming, water skiing, jet skiing and sailing may be enjoyed by many visitors. Picnicking, camping, bird watching and hunting are also very popular within the park.

Climate - North Sterling lies on the high plains, which are an semiarid landscape. Summer days are hot with precipitation during the afternoon. Spring and autumn bring milder temperatures and cool nights. Winter can be harsh on the plains with few trees to protect the site from high winds. Most days are sun filled, reaching into the 40s.

Location - This state park is located on the shortgrass prairies of northeastern Colorado. It lies very close to the South Platte River, its water source, and the path of the Overland Trail, used by pioneers to travel westward.

Directions - From the Sterling exit (#125) on I-76, turn left at the stop sign and follow the highway over the bridge into town. Continue on Chestnut St. (US Hwy. 6) three blocks, jog left onto Platte St. Go 2 blocks, turn right onto N. 3rd Ave. and go 4 blocks to Broadway. Turn left and go 4 blocks to N. 7th Ave. (CR 39). Turn right and go 12 miles to the reservoir.

OR from W. Main Street in Sterling (Hwy. 14), turn north on N. 7th Ave. (CR 39) and go 12 miles to the reservoir.

Note: CR 39 curves west and becomes CR 37. Turn left after the Parks sign at CR 37 and CR 46, following the paved road to the south reservoir entrance off CR 33. Follow CR 33 to the north end of the reservoir for the north entrance, Marina Point, Elks campground, Park Headquarters and Visitor Center.