History

One of the main land features in the area surrounding Jackson Lake State Park is the South Platte River, which runs across the northeastern region of Colorado. This area was originally inhabited by Sioux, Cheyenne and Arapahoe American Indians.

Historical Timeline

18th century: French explorers name both the South and North Platte rivers.

1820: Major Stephen H. Long explores the Colorado prairies, expressing doubts about the land’s agricultural potential due to limited water from the South Platte River.

1850: Gold discovery in the late 1850s leads to the development of the Overland Trail as a transportation route to Denver. The trail brings thousands of pioneers to the Front Range.

1901–1902: With increased population and the need for water storage, Jackson Reservoir is built by the South Platte Land, Reservoir and Irrigation Company. Jackson Reservoir is named after Leonard A. Jackson, a Weld County pioneer, in recognition of his contributions to canal construction. Agricultural use of the land continues for several decades.

1962: The State of Colorado purchases the property around the reservoir, establishing it as a hunting and fishing sanctuary.

1965: The Colorado Game, Fish, and Parks Department takes over recreational facilities, marking the birth of Jackson Lake State Park.

Today, Jackson Lake State Park is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Park visitors come to enjoy some of the best boating, fishing, swimming and water skiing conditions in Colorado. With 3,303 acres of land and water to explore, Jackson Lake State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.