Crawford State Park
Crawford State Park offers camping at two separate locations. The Iron Creek Campground has 45 sites near a public boat ramp, including those with electric and water hookups. Informational wildlife kiosks are available at the location, giving you a chance to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
The Clear Fork Campground has 21 sites, which offers you an alternative location for your stay. Potable water and hookups are available there as well.
Once you get settled, you can enjoy exploring everything the park has to offer. A variety of shorebirds, waterfowl, and raptors call the area home thanks to the large reservoir and rolling meadows. Rocky Mountain bluebirds, black-billed magpies, sandhill cranes, and ibis are all commonly spotted in the area. If you keep your eyes peeled, you may even spot a bald eagle soaring through the bright blue skies.
If you want to get some exercise during your stay, you can enjoy the numerous trails that work their way through the park. Hikers and bikers love the area since it allows them to travel among the magnificent treetops as they move along the trail.
For those who enjoy something more lowkey, consider trying your hand at fishing. Crawford State Park is known for its crappie and perch fishery, and anglers often land channel catfish, northern pike, rainbow trout, and largemouth bass. During the winter, you can even ice fish on the lake as long as the ice is at least 6 inches thick.
During warmer months, you can take a boat or jet ski out onto the water if you want to get a new perspective on the landscape. Paddleboards and sailboards are also welcome, as well as water skiing. If you prefer to keep it simple, head over to the swim beach during late spring and throughout the summer to enjoy a refreshing dip.
In the fall, waterfowl hunting is permitted in the park with the proper permit. Big game hunting is also an option during select seasons. Hunters are required to be a minimum of 150 yards away from any campground, but it is important to be mindful of hunting season, even if you don’t want to participate.
