John Martin Reservoir is the site of the first state park in southeastern Colorado, located in Bent County,approximately 17 miles east of Las Animas and 20 miles west of Lamar in the Lower Arkansas River Valley.Visitors come to John Martin to take advantage of modern campgrounds, great fishing, uncrowded boating waters, diverse wildlife viewing opportunities and historical sites. John Martin is one of the largest reservoirs(when full) in the state and is known for its excellent fishing and waterfowl hunting. The park provides recreational opportunities for visitors including camping, fishing, boating, swimming, picnicking and bird watching. Colorado State Parks manages approximately 1,727 acres of land and the surface of the reservoir, which can fluctuate from 1,000 to more than 11,000 surface-acres, depending on water levels. In 2005, John Martin Reservoir State Park added a retail store, The Eagles Perch, in the parks Visitor Center. John Martin has a total of 213 campsites, which can accommodate recreational vehicles, trailers and tents. The Lake Hasty Campground, located below the dam, provides plentiful shade with large trees, and is open year-round. The Point Campground sits on a ridge with fantastic views of the reservoir.