Jackson Reservoir - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Jackson Reservoir is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and take in the scenic beauty of Morgan County, Colorado. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, boating, and picnicking. There are also several hiking trails in the area that offer great views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains. In addition, Jackson Reservoir is a popular destination for bird watching. Hundreds of different species of birds can be seen in the area, making it a paradise for bird lovers. 

Jackson Reservoir is a man-made lake in Morgan County, Colorado. The reservoir was created in 1873 by the damming of the South Platte River. It is named after former Colorado Governor John C. Jackson. The reservoir is used for irrigation, recreation, and drinking water purposes.

The dam that forms Jackson Reservoir is an earthen structure that is approximately 1 mile long and 40 feet high. The reservoir has a capacity of 36,000 acre-feet (44 million cubic meters) of water. It is located about 9 miles (14 km) upstream from the city of Fort Morgan.

The primary purpose of Jackson Reservoir is to provide irrigation water for agriculture in the South Platte River Valley. The reservoir is also a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping. Drinking water for the city of Fort Morgan is sourced from the reservoir.
 

The best time to visit Jackson Reservoir in Morgan County, Colorado is from late spring to early fall. From May to September, the reservoir is perfect for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. The scenery is also spectacular during this time, with the snow-capped Rocky Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. 

1. Check the weather forecast before you go and dress accordingly. The temperature can vary widely depending on the time of year and elevation, so it's important to be prepared.
2. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid wildlife encounters. If you do see any animals, do not approach them or try to feed them.
3. Stay on designated trails and paths to help minimize your impact on the environment.
4. Take a boat out on the water. One of the best ways to experience Jackson Reservoir is by boat, so be sure to rent one before you leave shore.
5. Visit one of the many wineries in the area - there's nothing like enjoying a glass of wine while surrounded by beautiful scenery.
6. camp overnight and enjoy a night under the stars. There are several campgrounds to choose from, so you're sure to find one that's perfect for you.

1. The reservoir is named after David E. Jackson, who was instrumental in its creation.
2. It is the largest body of water in Morgan County.
3. The dam that impounds the reservoir is 30 feet tall and 1,700 feet long.
4. There are two developed campgrounds located on the shore of the reservoir – Jackass Flats and Paradise Point.
5. In 2007, the dam was renovated to improve its flood control capabilities.
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6.  Jackson Reservoir is considered an important part of Colorado’s water supply system.

The maximum time required to explore Jackson Reservoir is three hours. This includes time for hiking, fishing, and taking photographs. 

There are a few different ways to reach Jackson Reservoir in Morgan County, Colorado. The most direct route is to take Highway 34 west from Fort Morgan. After about 12 miles, you'll see a turnoff for Jackson Reservoir Road on the right. Follow this road for another 6 miles until you reach the reservoir. Another option is to take Highway 144 north from Brush. After about 10 miles, you'll come to a junction with Highway 34. Turn west onto Highway 34 and follow the directions above. Finally, you can take I-76 west from Denver. Take exit 18 for Highway 144 and follow the directions above from there.

While there is no entrance fee to access the reservoir, there is a small charge for parking. picnicking, and camping.

The hours for Jackson Reservoir are from 5:00 AM. to 10:00 PM. You need to have a valid ID and vehicle pass to enter the park.