Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area

Located south of Saguache, Colorado, Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area offers 4,579 acres of marshlands and sagebrush, with several scenic lakes and ponds. Ranging in elevation from 7,563 ft to 7,586 ft, this area is home to Johnson Lake, Trites Lake, and Davey Lake, among others. Today, Russell Lakes SWA is a great place to stop and rest while exploring the San Luis Valley.

In 1975, the Russell Lakes area was designated as a National Natural Landmark, as it is one of the largest remaining high-elevation alkaline marshes in the United States. The designated area is made up of both public and private land, with the State Wildlife Area opening for visitors to enjoy the scenery, wildlife viewing, hunting, and fishing. As this is a State Wildlife Area, a valid hunting or fishing license for those 16 years or older must be purchased through CPW to gain access to the area.

Access Requirements: A valid hunting or fishing license OR SWA pass is required for everyone 16 or older to visit most SWAs, and visitors should check current hunting, fishing and land use regulations when planning to visit a State Wildlife Area.

Activities

Boasting beautiful views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range and the Cochetopa Hills, the primary activity in this area is wildlife viewing along its meandering paths. There are restrooms and trash facilities available for visitors with 6 different parking areas surrounding the waters.

Bird and Wildlife: Russell Lakes SWA offers tremendous birding opportunities with the chance to spot unique and diverse wildlife. The area’s marshy environment attracts many species of migratory and breeding birds, such as Osprey, Grebes, White-faced Ibis, Great Horned Owls. Aside from the birds, the saltbush provides shelter to sparrows and thrashers, along with jackrabbits, mule deer, and muskrats.

Fishing: With a valid Colorado fishing license, anglers are known to catch trout, carp, and even catfish within the waters of Russell Lakes SWA. All kinds of fishing are permitted including both live bait and flies.

Hiking: Trails through Russell Lakes tend to be fairly flat and not strenuous. The trails are either gravel or wooden boardwalks over the marshy areas. Despite this, it should be noted that some of these trails are not handicap accessible, as a step up is required from the gravel trail to the boardwalk.

Hunting: Licensed hunters will find small game opportunities within Russell Lakes SWA. Primarily, this includes rabbits, doves, and waterfowl.

Swimming: Swimming is prohibited in any of the bodies of water within the Russell Lakes SWA.

Directions

9 miles south of Saguache on Hwy 285, Saguache, CO, 81149

Restrictions

Open for public access July 16–Feb. 14. and as otherwise posted. Sect. 29 closed during waterfowl seasons.
Closed after 1 p.m. during first split waterfowl season.
Parking only in established parking areas.
Camping during waterfowl hunting seasons by licensed waterfowl hunt- ers and only in self-contained units in designated areas.
Field trials may be authorized Feb., March, Aug. and Sept.
Hunting or fishing license or Colorado State Wildlife Area Pass required, except for parking area and restroom located off Hwy. 285.