Listen to this article
Happy Earth Day! This week we’re featuring one of Colorado’s most unique state parks: the James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park, which consists of five distinct sections along the Colorado River in Mesa County.
This state park is named after James M. Robb, a state parks advocate who was instrumental in creating the (previously named) Colorado River State Park. The five sections of James M. Robb State Park are referred to as a “string of pearls” stretching along the river from the De Beque Canyon to Fruita. Each section – Island Acres, Corn Lake, Colorado River Wildlife Area, Connected Lakes, and Fruita – provides access to the Colorado River and offers unique river- and lake-based activities. Detailed information about each section can be found in the park’s brochure, which is available in our digital repository.
Fishing is one of the most popular activities at James M. Robb State Park. Visitors are able to fish in the river as well as adjacent lakes. The Island Acres, Corn Lake, and Fruita sections are stocked all year long. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) posts fishing reports and stocking reports so visitors can choose their preferred fishing spots; you can find these resources in our previous blog post.
Boat ramps for rafters, kayakers, canoers, and tubers are available at the Corn Lake, Connected Lakes, and Fruita sections of James M. Robb State Park. Conditions on the river can vary widely based on the weather and the river’s water level, so be sure to check the current water data before launching. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with river runner etiquette; you don’t want to end up with a ticket for an illegal splash fight!
Will you be celebrating CPW’s 125th birthday at James M. Robb State Park? Or do you have another favorite? Let us know!
- Colorado State Parks: Paonia - April 19, 2024
- Understanding Colorado’s school district cost of living studies - April 5, 2024
- Colorado’s Governors: Clarence J. Morley - March 22, 2024