How do I access John Martin Reservoir State Park?

John Martin Reservoir State Park is a public boat ramp in Colorado. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at John Martin Reservoir State Park?

John Martin Reservoir State Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at John Martin Reservoir State Park?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit John Martin Reservoir State Park?

The best time to paddle at John Martin Reservoir State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at John Martin Reservoir State Park?

Water conditions at John Martin Reservoir State Park include mild current.

Is John Martin Reservoir State Park good for beginners?

Yes, John Martin Reservoir State Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

a group of people riding on top of a raft down a river

Photo by Jackalope West on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

John Martin Reservoir State Park

Hasty, CO · Boat Ramp · Public

John Martin Reservoir State Park is a public boat ramp on Arkansas River near Hasty, Colorado. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Launch into Arkansas River near Hasty, Colorado. Beginner level with mild current water.

John Martin Reservoir State Park is a public launch site on Arkansas River in Colorado, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

John Martin Reservoir State Park sits about 5 min from Hasty, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access John Martin Reservoir State Park?: John Martin Reservoir State Park is a public boat ramp in Colorado. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at John Martin Reservoir State Park?: John Martin Reservoir State Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at John Martin Reservoir State Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit John Martin Reservoir State Park?: The best time to paddle at John Martin Reservoir State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at John Martin Reservoir State Park?: Water conditions at John Martin Reservoir State Park include mild current.
Is John Martin Reservoir State Park good for beginners?: Yes, John Martin Reservoir State Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.0761, -102.9515