Within the boundaries of the Colorado State Forest lie 70,000 acres of the great outdoors as it was meant to be. Eye-filling mountain beauty greets the visitor and provides a setting unequaled for recreational possibilities — backpacking, hiking, horseback riding, lake and stream fishing, camping and four-wheeling.
The State Forest is high country, ranging in elevation from 8,500 to 12,500 feet, so visitors may find they need time to acclimate. Sunburn is possible in the high, thin cool air, and until mid-summer mosquito repellent is a necessity.
The park stretches along the west side of the Medicine Bow Mountains and into the north end of the Never Summer Range. From Fort Collins, visitors can take Colorado 14 over Cameron Pass, a 75-mile drive. From Denver, the route leads over Berthoud and Willow Creek passes to Walden, a 150-mile trip.
The State Forest's recreational uses are administered by the Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, which has leased the area for public recreation since 1972.
Camping
Ranger Lakes, The Crags, North Michigan Reservoir and the Bochman campgrounds have 105 campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers or pickup campers. Backcountry camping is allowed at various locations throughout the area and at Ruby Jewel, Kelly, Clear and American lakes. Minimum-impact camping techniques are recommended at this alpine-lake area. No camping is allowed at Lake Agnes.
Cabins
Primitive cabins are available on a rental basis at North Michigan Reservoir and at the Lake Agnes trailhead. In Denver, call (303) 470-1144 to reserve a cabin, or toll-free at (800) 678-CAMP.
Boating
Boating is permitted only on North Michigan Reservoir. Powerboats can be operated only at wakeless speeds. All other waters in the park are closed to boating.
Fishing
Brook, brown, native, rainbow and golden trout are found in the waters at Sta