On June 9, 2022, the Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) agency opened applications for special-use hunting permits in the Lone Mesa State Park. Here’s everything you need to know about hunting in Lone Mesa State Park, how to apply, the rules and regulations in the area, and the dates and times to know.
The Lone Mesa State Park
Lone Mesa State Park is an 11,760-acre closed-access park in southwest Colorado, located approximately 30 miles from Dolores, CO, via forest service roads. Most of the park is situated between 7,200 and 9,000 ft. of elevation and is home to a significant population of mule deer, white-tailed deer, rocky mountain elk, and black bears.
The park is not normally accessible to the public, except during limited hunting periods with special-purpose permits.
How to Apply for a Lone Mesa Hunting Permit
Hunting in the Lone Mesa State Park is reserved for holders of a special-use hunting permit valid only in the area. To apply for a Lone Mesa special-use hunting permit, you must possess a valid Colorado hunting license for Game Management Unit (GMU) 711 and register on the CPW online application form.
Conditions:
- Holders of “Private land only” licenses cannot enter the Lone Mesa State Park.
- You can only apply once per single season.
- Duplicate applications are disqualifying.
Important Dates
Here are the dates to remember if you’re interested in hunting at Lone Mesa State Park for the 2022 period.
Application period:
- The application period is open through July 7, 2022, at 5 p.m.
- The permit drawing period will be held on July 8, 2022, at 5 p.m. All selected hunters will be notified after the drawing period has concluded.
Hunting seasons:
- Archery season: September 2 to September 30. Permits available: 20.
- Muzzleloader season: September 10 to September 18. Permits available: 12.
- 1st rifle season (elk only): October 15 to October 19. Permits available: 15.
- 2nd rifle season: October 29 to November 6. Permits available: 25.
- 3rd rifle season: November 12 to November 18. Permits available: 25.
- 4th rifle season: November 23 to November 27. Permits available: 25.
For more information regarding Lone Mesa State Park, contact the park offices by email at [email protected] or telephone at (970) 533-7065.
