The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is close by, so its easy to imagine the inspiring scenery found here. Crawford State Park invites anglers, boaters, hikers and water sports enthusiasts to the western slope, for one day or several.

Jet skiing, motor boating and water skiing are very popular action-oriented activities at peak times like summer weekends. The park is quiet and restful during the week and lower peak times.

A nice retreat for outdoor recreation, groups are welcome to gather and enjoy the group picnic facility. Crawford is a great place to take a break and enjoy great recreation and stunning scenery.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife, in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, recently refurbished and added modern campground amenities to the park.

Many migratory and resident birds inhabit the area including waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors attracted to the reservoir and adjacent meadows and uplands.

Birders may see the common raven, black-billed magpie, scrub jay, Rocky Mountain bluebird, red-winged and yellow-headed blackbird, western grebe, ibis, sandhill crane and the rare bald eagle.

Mule deer, cottontail rabbit, coyote, raccoon, prairie dog and ground squirrel make up some of the mammal population at the park.

Anglers are attracted to the warm-water and cold-water fishing opportunities, which include yellow perch, largemouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow and German brown trout, northern pike and crappie.

Located in western Colorado, the park was established in 1964. It encompasses a reservoir formed by Iron Creek Dam built-in 1924. The dam's construction aimed to support local agriculture through irrigation.

The area is named after George A Crawford, founder of Grand Junction and early pioneer of Western Colorado. In its initial years, it served as an important fishing spot for locals.

In later decades, improvements were made including campgrounds and picnic areas added around the lake shorelines enhancing recreational activities like boating and swimming besides fishing.

Today it continues being popular among outdoor enthusiasts offering diverse wildlife viewing opportunities along with water-based recreation on its serene waters.

All Colorado State Parks have entrance fees. All vehicles are required to have an entrance pass and some parks have walk-in fees. Visit the Colorado Park Entrance Pass web page.

Crawford offers two campgrounds with 66 individual campsites.

Iron Creek Campground - Close to a boat ramp and an informative watchable wildlife kiosk, there are 45 sites.

Clear Fork Campground - There are 19 sites available for reservations. There is 1 site that is universally accessible, 5 tent only sites and 13 full hook-up sites, as well 4 added picnic areas. All sites have shade shelters.