When most people think of public lands in Colorado, they picture national parks or national forests. But there’s another category of protected space that plays a vital role in both conservation and outdoor recreation—State Wildlife Areas (SWAs). In Park County, these lands are some of the most peaceful, scenic, and wildlife-rich places you can visit.
What Are State Wildlife Areas?
State Wildlife Areas are public lands managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), funded by hunting and fishing license sales. Their primary purpose is to preserve wildlife habitat while offering outdoor access for regulated activities like hunting, fishing, birding, and photography.
These areas often feel less trafficked than typical parks—offering wide-open views, quiet moments with nature, and a rare chance to experience Colorado without the crowds.
Visiting Responsibly
Because these lands are protected primarily for wildlife habitat, it’s important to visit with care. Each State Wildlife Area has its own set of rules and seasonal restrictions. See below for a link to each area’s CPW rules, and be sure to review the official guidelines before your trip.
Here are a few tips to ensure a safe and respectful visit:
Know Before You Go: Visit cpw.state.co.us for maps, access dates, and rules specific to each SWA.
Use Licenses Properly: All visitors aged 16 or older must carry a valid hunting or fishing license or SWA pass. See each CP&W page below for details.
Practice Wildlife Etiquette: Observe from a distance. Do not feed, approach, or disturb animals.
Pack It In, Pack It Out: Take all trash with you—including biodegradable items.
Stay on Designated Routes: Avoid creating new trails or walking into sensitive habitat areas.
Respect Private Property: Many SWAs border or are interspersed with private land. Stay within the posted boundaries.
Explore All 11 State Wildlife Areas in Park County
🪶 Teter-Michigan Creek SWA (Jefferson, CO)
Teter-Michigan Creek State Wildlife Area encompasses 950 acres in Park County, Colorado, offering a peaceful setting for big game and waterfowl hunting, coldwater stream fishing, and nature viewing. Ranging from 9,544 to 9,803 feet in elevation, this high-country habitat is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to support wildlife conservation and responsible recreation. All visitors aged 16 or older must carry a valid hunting or fishing license or SWA pass.
Cline Ranch SWA (Como, CO)
Cline Ranch State Wildlife Area spans 1,600 acres of high-elevation habitat in Park County, sitting between 9,600 and 9,800 feet. Known for its excellent coldwater stream fishing and diverse hunting opportunities—including deer, elk, pronghorn, small game, and waterfowl—this SWA is a well-managed space for seasonal outdoor recreation. Fishing is allowed only from March 1 through September 30 and only in designated areas, with access restricted to occupants of a vehicle parked in an assigned fishing space. Each vehicle is limited to one fishing area with a maximum of four anglers per vehicle. Hunting is similarly regulated by assigned parking, and discharging firearms or bows is permitted only while actively hunting. No overnight parking is allowed, and dog training or field trials are prohibited. While camping and guides are not available, those who come prepared can enjoy a quiet, rules-based experience surrounded by alpine beauty.
Alma SWA (Alma, CO)
Perched at elevations between 10,459 and 10,764 feet, Alma State Wildlife Area is one of the highest SWAs in Park County, covering 277 acres. While hunting is not permitted here, the area is well-suited for those seeking coldwater stream fishing and quiet nature viewing. The landscape provides a peaceful high-alpine setting for anglers and wildlife watchers alike. Basic facilities, including restrooms, are available onsite. No camping or guide services are offered, and visitors aged 16 or older will need a valid fishing license or SWA pass. As always, be sure to review current land use and fishing regulations before visiting.
James Mark Jones SWA (Fairplay, CO)
James Mark Jones State Wildlife Area is one of the largest in Park County, spanning over 17,000 acres of varied terrain between 9,006 and 10,532 feet in elevation. The area provides rich hunting grounds for deer, elk, pronghorn, and small game, along with opportunities for nature viewing. While fishing is not listed as an activity here, the property supports extensive wildlife conservation and seasonal recreation. The area is open May 2 through December 31, with camping permitted only from May 2 to August 13, or for licensed hunters during the late season starting August 14. Fires are allowed only in designated containment structures, and dog training and field trials are prohibited. This SWA was established in 2002 by combining Reinecker Ridge and Mud Springs SWAs and renamed to honor Jim Jones, a respected Colorado wildlife officer.
Tomahawk SWA (Hartsel, CO)
With 1,655 acres of diverse terrain and elevations ranging from 8,970 to 9,430 feet, Tomahawk State Wildlife Area offers a wide range of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. This SWA is popular for hunting deer, elk, pronghorn, rabbit, and waterfowl, as well as fishing in its coldwater streams. The area also invites quiet nature viewing throughout the seasons. While camping and guided services are not available, this location is ideal for day-use trips. Dog training and field trials are not permitted, so visitors should plan activities accordingly. Like all SWAs, access requires a valid hunting or fishing license or SWA pass for anyone 16 or older, and rules should be reviewed in advance to ensure compliance with current regulations.
Knight-Imler SWA (Fairplay, CO)
Knight-Imler State Wildlife Area is a small but specialized 15-acre fishing easement in Park County, sitting at elevations between 9,121 and 9,200 feet. This SWA is designated exclusively for fishing in coldwater stream conditions and does not allow hunting or camping access. A key restriction limits public use to within 25 feet of the stream’s centerline, making it a focused and regulated spot for anglers seeking a quiet, controlled environment. Though limited in size, the area offers a unique streamside experience for those with the proper fishing license or SWA pass.
63 Ranch SWA (Fairplay, CO)
Set across 1,200 acres in Park County, the 63 Ranch State Wildlife Area offers a balanced mix of big game and waterfowl hunting, coldwater stream fishing, and quiet nature viewing. With elevations ranging from 8,967 to 9,147 feet, the landscape supports a wide range of wildlife and seasonal activity. Visitors should arrive prepared and ensure they hold a valid hunting or fishing license or SWA pass if over the age of 16. It’s a versatile destination for both recreation and reflection in a managed natural environment.
Badger Basin SWA (Hartsel, CO)
Badger Basin State Wildlife Area encompasses 752 acres in Park County, stretching between 8,774 and 9,023 feet in elevation. This SWA is dedicated to fishing only, with no hunting permitted and camping and guides not offered. It provides a focused, peaceful experience for anglers in a well-maintained setting. Access is limited to designated parking areas, and use is only allowed within the fenced and posted easement. The area spans multiple Game Management Units (GMUs 50, 58, and 581) but is managed strictly to protect its stream corridors and aquatic habitat. Anglers must carry a valid fishing license or SWA pass and follow all posted rules.
Spinney Mountain SWA (Lake George, CO)
At nearly 1,937 acres, Spinney Mountain State Wildlife Area offers ample space for both pronghorn and waterfowl hunting as well as coldwater stream fishing. Located between 8,587 and 9,026 feet in elevation, this SWA spans two game management units (GMUs 58 and 581) and serves as a productive zone for seasonal wildlife activity. While camping and guides are not available, Spinney Mountain is ideal for day use by anglers and hunters who come prepared. The open, windswept landscape also provides expansive views, making it a striking setting for outdoor adventure. Visitors over 16 must carry a valid hunting or fishing license or SWA pass and are encouraged to check current regulations before heading out.
Charlie-Meyers SWA (Lake George, CO)
Covering 1,082 acres between Spinney and Elevenmile Reservoirs, Charlie Meyers State Wildlife Area is named after the longtime Denver Post outdoor columnist who inspired generations of Colorado anglers. Formerly part of the Spinney Mountain SWA, this area includes the famed “Dream Stream”, offering top-tier coldwater fishing along with big game, small game, and waterfowl hunting. Sitting at elevations between 8,587 and 9,026 feet, the area is managed under GMU 58 and attracts both seasoned sportspeople and quiet explorers. Camping and guide services are not available, so visitors should come prepared for day-use only. As always, access requires a valid license or SWA pass for those 16 and older, and regulations should be reviewed prior to arrival.
Tarryall SWA
Tarryall Reservoir State Wildlife Area includes 711 acres of land and 175 water acres, offering a dynamic setting for fishing, hunting, and camping in Park County. Sitting at elevations between 8,839 and 9,111 feet, this area supports both coldwater lake and stream fishing, along with opportunities to hunt deer, elk, and waterfowl. Visitors will find amenities such as restrooms, a boat ramp (seasonally closed), and designated campgrounds.
To protect both wildlife and public safety, several restrictions are in place: no OHVs or snowmobiles, no fires except gas grills, and firearm use is limited to active hunting only. Dogs must be leashed unless involved in licensed field trials or hunting. This well-regulated SWA is ideal for those seeking a structured outdoor experience with access to both land and water-based recreation.