🏆 Official Guide: North Sterling State Park — A 3,000-acre high-plains reservoir in Colorado’s Logan County — premier wiper bass and walleye fishing, 141 campsites, and water skiing on the northeastern Colorado prairie near Sterling.
North Sterling State Park centers on the 3,000-acre North Sterling Reservoir — a surprising oasis of water recreation on the high plains of northeastern Colorado. The reservoir’s sprawling coves and fingers create miles of shoreline for camping, fishing, and boating, making it the premier water destination between Denver and the Nebraska border.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 24005 CR 330, Sterling, Logan County, CO |
| Reservoir | 3,000 acres |
| Campsites | 141 (3 campgrounds) |
| Admission | CO Parks pass or daily vehicle fee |
| Boating Season | April 16 – September 30 |
Fishing
| Species | Where | Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| Wiper Bass | Open water, Darby Arm | Summer |
| Walleye | Points, drop-offs | Spring, Fall |
| Channel Catfish | Near Goose Island, coves | Summer |
| Northern Pike | Weed edges, shallow coves | Spring |
| Crappie / Bluegill | Coves, brush | Spring, Summer |
| Trout | Deep water — cold months | Fall, Winter |
Camping
| Campground | Sites | Features | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elk | 46 | Electric hookups, year-round | All year |
| Inlet Grove | 48 | Mix of electric/basic | Seasonal |
| Chimney View | 47 | Mix of electric/basic | Seasonal |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Fishing | Wiper, walleye, pike, catfish, trout |
| Boating/Water Skiing | 2 ramps, all motors — wake skiing allowed |
| Camping | 141 sites across 3 campgrounds |
| Hiking | South Shoreline Trail — 3.5 mi |
| Bird Watching | Nesting bald eagles, hawks, waterfowl |
| Hunting | Seasonal waterfowl hunting |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wiper bass?
A wiper bass is a hybrid between white bass and striped bass — known for aggressive feeding and powerful fights. North Sterling Reservoir is one of northeastern Colorado’s best wiper fisheries. They hit topwater lures and jigs hard during summer surface feeding frenzies.
Can I water ski at North Sterling?
Yes. The 3,000-acre reservoir allows all motor sizes, and water skiing, wake boarding, and jet skiing are popular. The boating season runs from April 16 through September 30. Two boat ramps provide access.
Is camping available year-round?
Yes — the Elk Campground (46 sites with electric hookups) is open year-round. Inlet Grove and Chimney View campgrounds are seasonal. The camper services building provides 24/7 restrooms, coin-operated showers, and laundry.
More parks nearby: Jackson Lake State Park is elsewhere in the state, while Boyd Lake State Park lies elsewhere in the state.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Colorado state parks online at cpwshop.com.
Park Location
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