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State Wildlife Area · Colorado

Fowler State Wildlife Area

Fowler State Wildlife Area in southeastern Colorado offers prime opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation across a diverse mix of wetlands, prairie, and riparian habitats.

State Wildlife Area8,5004+ Trails

Designation

State Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

8,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Fowler State Wildlife Area

Fowler State Wildlife Area in southeastern Colorado offers prime opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation across a diverse mix of wetlands, prairie, and riparian habitats.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Fowler State Wildlife Area covers roughly 8,500 acres near the town of Fowler in Colorado's Crowley County. Established to provide quality habitat for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation, the area features a combination of open grasslands, wetlands, and riverine environments along the Arkansas River. Its landscape supports a wide variety of wildlife species, including waterfowl, deer, turkey, small game, and numerous migratory birds. The area's wetland ecosystems attract anglers and birdwatchers alike, offering fishing access primarily for warm-water species. Hunting is a key recreational activity, with managed seasons for deer, turkey, waterfowl, and upland game birds. The mix of riparian and prairie habitats also makes the wildlife area important for many nesting and migratory species. Although developed trails are minimal, visitors enjoy walking and nature viewing, as well as photography and occasional camping on designated sites. The wildlife area is managed by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife agency, which maintains the area both for conservation and compatible public use. Fowler State Wildlife Area is especially appealing to outdoor enthusiasts seeking less crowded opportunities around the Arkansas River valley while experiencing the region’s natural prairie and wetland environments. Its location in eastern Colorado's ranch country presents a gateway to diverse high plains ecosystems. Access is mostly by vehicle on gravel and dirt roads, with parking areas available near key access points.

Field Guide · State Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Fowler State Wildlife Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Midnight Falls Waterfall near Colorado Springs★ 7.2⌖ 67 miHiking
Midnight Falls

Midnight Falls Waterfall near Colorado Springs

Midnight Falls near Colorado Springs offers a moderate hiking trail to a serene waterfall with rocky cascades and shaded resting spots. Ideal for nature observation and picnics, this peaceful site provides a quiet outdoor escape with easy access and moderate crowds.

Waterfall Wonders at The Broadmoor Seven Falls★ 8.3⌖ 67 miHiking
The Broadmoor Seven Falls

Waterfall Wonders at The Broadmoor Seven Falls

Explore the stunning Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. This 1,250-foot box canyon features seven waterfalls and 1,400 steps leading to scenic trails. Enjoy hiking, photography, and scenic viewing in a family-friendly setting. Best visited in late spring to early fall.

Nature's Beauty: High Chaparral Open Space★ 6.8⌖ 67 miHiking
High Chaparral Open Space Parking Lot & Trailhead

Nature's Beauty: High Chaparral Open Space

High Chaparral Open Space offers hiking trails with stunning Rocky Mountain views. Located in Colorado Springs, it's perfect for wildlife watching and nature lovers. Enjoy the trails mostly in spring and fall.

Rock Formations & Trails at Mt Cutler and Muscoco Trailhead, Colorado Springs★ 7.2⌖ 68 miHiking
Mt Cutler and Muscoco Trailhead

Rock Formations & Trails at Mt Cutler and Muscoco Trailhead, Colorado Springs

Mt Cutler and Muscoco Trailhead near Colorado Springs offer moderate hiking amid impressive granite rock formations and pine forests. Explore scenic overlooks, enjoy rock climbing for experienced visitors, and watch for local wildlife. Best visited spring through fall with good trail access and moderate crowds.

Phantom Canyon★ 7.0⌖ 68 miHiking
Phantom Canyon

Phantom Canyon

Explore Phantom Canyon, a serene hiking spot near Cañon City, Colorado. Known for its dramatic rock formations and historical significance, it's perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. Best visited in late spring to early fall for the best views and experience.

St Mary's Falls: Scenic Waterfall Experience near Colorado Springs★ 7.5⌖ 68 miHiking
St Mary's Falls

St Mary's Falls: Scenic Waterfall Experience near Colorado Springs

Located about 30 minutes west of Colorado Springs, St Mary's Falls offers a moderate 1.5-mile round-trip hike to a peaceful waterfall with granite pools. Ideal for hiking, photography, wildlife viewing, and picnicking, this spot is family-friendly and less crowded throughout the year.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Arkansas River riparian corridor providing critical habitat and scenic fishing spots✦ Diverse wetland complexes offering excellent waterfowl and migratory bird viewing✦ Managed hunting programs for deer, turkey, waterfowl, and upland game✦ Quiet prairie grassland areas with opportunities for nature photography and wildlife observation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Fowler State Wildlife Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Fowler State Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Fowler State Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Fowler State Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Fowler State Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Fowler State Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Fowler State Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Fowler State Wildlife Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Fowler State Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No general entrance fee; hunting and fishing permits are required when applicable

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Fowler State Wildlife Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Olney Springs
⌖ 0.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Olney Springs, Colorado

A quiet small town offering access to rural landscapes and outdoor activities centered on nearby reservoirs and open plains.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Fowler
⌖ 5.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fowler, Colorado

A quiet rural town offering easy access to Colorado's plains and nearby natural areas for low-key outdoor exploration and seasonal activities.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Ordway
⌖ 10.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ordway, Colorado

A quiet rural town offering access to wide-open plains, nearby canyons, and reservoirs for diverse outdoor activities.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Sugar City
⌖ 15.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sugar City, Colorado

A quiet rural town offering peaceful access to high plains and nearby mountain outdoor pursuits.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
La Junta
⌖ 24.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

La Junta, Colorado

A gateway to the high plains and nearby mountains offering easy access to diverse outdoor pursuits including hiking, paddling, and wildlife spotting in a relaxed small-town atmosphere.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Pueblo
⌖ 37.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pueblo, Colorado

A vibrant riverfront town offering diverse outdoor activities with a mix of urban access and natural landscapes ideal for all-season adventures.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Fowler State Wildlife Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.