The beautiful Colorado Springs is sitting in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. And the gorgeous lakes in and around Colorado Springs are perfect for your next vacation destination. Here travelers can explore numerous exciting outdoor activities according to their taste and age. Quite famous for offering some of the best recreational activities, in Colorado Springs lakes visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, camping and many other fun-filled engaging activities that are available throughout the year. Another exciting thing these outdoor destinations include is the opportunity of encountering multiple wild animals in the nearby surroundings.
From large to small, each water body is unique and their views are always vibrant. Water sports and several activities are making these lakes a fantastic family-friendly day-trip destination. Also, they are super easy to access for all age groups. Be it fishing, boating or whitewater rafting, all these exciting activities make this beautiful mountainous city perfectly suitable for all types of getaways. Plus, there are many non-outdoor activities that you can enjoy full-heartedly.
To possess the panoramic views, exciting engaging activities and hiking opportunities, must check out these amazing Colorado Springs lakes. So, here is the list of some of the best lakes in Colorado Springs thar are worth visiting in your next trip.
1. South Catamount Reservoir, Teller County
South Catamount Reservoir is one among the three drinking waterbodies in Colorado Springs. The reservoir is located in Teller County. The 120-acre waterbody is an important part of the Pikes Peak North Slope Recreation Area.
It is very easy to access from the parking area after passing Crystal Creek on the Pikes Peak Highway. This reservoir is the smallest among the three reservoirs on the North Slope.
The long stretch of 3.96 miles of shoreline is suitable for all types of recreational activities. Also, South Catamount Reservoir is an excellent spot for trout fishing. Plus, due to its sitting at the elevation of 8,4000 feet above sea level, visitors can explore gorgeous views of the landscape.
Amazing water activities in this one of the best Colorado Springs lakes include fishing, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding. Camping is not permitted here. But amazing hiking and biking trails are always welcome! You might also enjoy a picnic with your dear ones in a nice spot on the bank of the reservoir.
2. Palmer Lake, El Paso County
The gorgeous Palmer Lake was named in honour of the founder of Colorado Springs, Gen. William Jackson Palmer. Palmer Lake is just 25 miles from Colorado Springs.
In 2010, due to drought, Palmer Lake almost dried up and later in 2012, through the effort in “Awake the Lake”, the reservoir’s water level was restored.
The popular family-friendly outdoor destination boasts well-maintained parking area along with nice playgrounds and a great pavilion, making this spot a comfortable as well as a lovely weekend destination among the locals and tourists.
Unfortunately, swimming is not permitted in Palmer Lake. But kayaking and paddleboarding are allowed. Ice-fishing is also permitted here. Try your luck in catching rainbow trout, pike, catfish and perch.
3. Rampart Reservoir, El Paso County
One of the most popular lakes in Colorado Springs, Rampart Reservoir is located inside Pike National Forest. Though the Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area is open year-round, the reservoir itself is only enjoyable from May to October. Visitors need to pay $7 per head to enjoy the fun activities in the recreation area.
Besides being a popular short vacation destination, Rampart Reservoir also plays an important role for the surrounding area. This reservoir is another source of drinking water for Colorado Springs. Created in 1967, the main purpose after its construction was to provide potable water to its residents.
There are many hidden coves you’ll find nearby the area. Camping is permitted here. If you are planning to camp here, specially, in weekends, try to reach there early, as being a too popular spot, the land gets too crowded quickly and campsites are also reserved.
This is a quiet zone area. Less noise is allowed here for giving the visitors more space for enjoying their time more enthusiastically. And that is the reason, motorized boats with low power and speed are permitted on this reservoir.
Hiking, mountain biking, fishing and birdwatching are quite popular among visitors. Active anglers will be pleased after knowing that this lake is home to muskellunge, splake and trout.
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4. Cheesman Lake, Jefferson County
Scenic views of lush plantation and towering hills along with amazing engaging activities in Cheesman Lake, make it a dream destination among many US dwellers. The 877-acre Cheesman Lake is nestled on a secluded location in the Rocky Mountains and this reservoir is considered some of the best lakes in Colorado Springs to spend your peaceful weekend.
Located forty-five miles northwest of downtown, the reservoir is only accessible either by foot or horseback. The name of the lake has been given after Walter S. Cheesman, a Denver water pioneer. Like the earlier one, this lake was also created with the purpose of providing safe drinking water in 1905.
Not permitted for swimming, boating and any type of camping option, the lake offers peaceful ambience to enjoy the fresh and clean water, fresh air, amazing trails and the panoramic views.
Fishing is also not permitted in Cheesman Lake. In fact, any direct contact to this waterbody is strictly prohibited. But no worries! Visitors can enjoy fishing along the Goose Creek Arm. It’s on the northwest corner of the lake. It’s a popular fishing spot.
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5. Prospect Lake, El Paso County
The history of Colorado Springs is closely linked with this famous Prospect Lake. The lake is only 2-miles from the city and it is located in the southeast of Memorial Park. Prospect Lake was constructed in 1890 along with a dam to have the source of drinking water.
At present time, this lake is widely known for its recreational opportunities. Visitors do also get lot of scenic views of the Rocky Mountain’s towering peaks. So, a day trip with family and friends in this lake is indeed a great option.
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6. Crystal Creek Reservoir, Teller County
Crystal Creek Reservoir sits at an elevation of 9,200 feet above sea level and it is a clod-water lake. A short drive of 17 miles northwest of Colorado Springs, will take you to this small but beautiful reservoir. Like most of the lakes in Colorado Springs, Crystal Creek Reservoir is also a result of the construction of a dam which was made for supplying drinking water in neighbouring areas.
When you travel along Pikes Peak Highway, Crystal Creek Reservoir is the first lake you will reach. Also, this reservoir is close to the Visitor’s Center. With the 3.31 miles of shoreline, this lake is a part of the North Slope Recreation Area.
Swimming is not allowed in the 136-acre reservoir. But non-motorized boating, shoreline fishing, kayaking, canoeing all are engaging activities visitors enjoy profoundly.
This reservoir is open to the public from May to October. And summer is the best time to enjoy this vibrant land with longer hours. Visitors do also enjoy some amazing hiking and biking trails in this peaceful place.
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7. Spinney Mountain Reservoir, Park County
Spinney Mountain Reservoir is one of the most popular lakes in Colorado Springs and it is sitting in Spinney Mountain State Park. This reservoir is one of the most popular fishing hubs in the entire area and is able to offer you so many exciting experiences that you will barely find out from any other single place.
The name of this reservoir has been given to honor Ben Spinney who used to be a rancher of the area. Earlier this spot was a popular wildflower viewing spot, and now it’s a more famous spot with higher entertaining opportunities.
Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding area. Watching wildlife is another exciting thing to do here. You might encounter wildlife including wild bears.
Visitors also take part in the exploration of hiking trails. Birdwatching is another good thing for spending your leisure time in this state park.
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8. Quail Lake, El Paso County
Located near Cheyenne Mountain, Quail Lake is the highlight of Quail Lake Park. This waterbody is another one of the popular Colorado Springs lakes. The 22-acre lake and its 1.1-mile-long loop along with the incredible views of the Front Range make this lake visit one of the most desired weekend thing among many families.
Families can also enjoy amazing wildlife and can explore walking and jogging trails. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available. You can explore the entire lake by an amazing boat tour. But remember, motorized boats are not permitted in the reservoir. Swimming is also prohibited in this lake.
Quail Lake boasts two handicap-accessible fishing piers, also. The lake is filled with a variety of fish species, and the common fish species include rainbow trout and channel catfish. In weekends, the land gets too congested. So, it can be little problematic among solitary lovers.
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9. Pueblo Lake, Pueblo County
This lake is too popular for its all energetic recreational activities. Pueblo Lake is among the few lakes in Colorado Springs where swimming and camping are not only allowed but also these are very pleasing. Taking a dip into the fresh water of Pueblo Lake, will give you vigor to get back to your busy city life snugly!
This beautiful lake features 60-miles of shoreline. And it took shape in 1970 after the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project. Like most of the Colorado Springs lakes, Pueblo Lake is the hot spot for fishing. Common fish species are catfish, bass and crappie. Due to its location inside Lake Pueblo State Park, visitors can enjoy the year-round hiking, biking and camping activities.
This state park can actually be a great getaway destination in your next weekend. You will get lots of fun at every moment!
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10. Antero Reservoir, Park County
Antero Reservoir is another pretty lake and it is a popular spot for stillwater fishing. This family-friendly outdoor destination gets too crowded in summer time when opportunities are more. Moreover, from this spot, you can get amazing views of the Sawatch Range, Mount Shavano and Mount Antero.
Antero Reservoir is also a source of supplying water to the neighbouring area. This reservoir provides water to Denver, more than 110 miles northeast of Antero Reservoir. Due to this reason, swimming and waterskiing are strictly prohibited in this lake.
Spend some fun moments in fishing. Popular fish species are brown trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout and cutbow. Free camping opportunities are also served to first comers.
So, spending a night with yours close ones in nature and of course, near one of the best lakes in Colorado Springs, will truly fulfil your desire of outdoor exploration.
FAQs
1. Are there any lakes in Colorado Springs?
Visitors can explore multiple stunning lakes in and around Colorado Springs. These lakes not only look beautiful, but they are quite popular for offering a copious amount of recreational activities. Fishing, hiking and kayaking are just few among them. A few elegant lakes in Colorado Springs include South Catamount Reservoir, Palmer Lake, Rampart Reservoir, Prospect Lake. Still, there are many waterbodies you’ll encounter in Colorado Springs.
2. Does Colorado have lots of lakes?
You’ll be shocked after knowing that there are more than 4,000 lakes and reservoirs in Colorado Springs. Blue Mesa Reservoir and Navajo Reservoir are the two biggest lakes in the state.
3. What are the 2 biggest lakes in Colorado?
Blue Mesa Reservoir, size= 14.34 sq. mile, and Navajo Reservoir, size= 24.37 sq. mile, are some of the 2 biggest lakes in Colorado. The Blue Mesa Reservoir is completely located in the state. But the majority portion of Navajo Reservoir is located in New Mexico.
4. Does Colorado have any natural lakes?
There are 11 natural lakes you’ll find in Colorado. Natural lakes are usually smaller and most of them are found above the elevation of 9,000 feet.
5. Why are Colorado lakes so blue?
Most of the Colorado lakes are glacier-fed, and this is the reason, the lakes get stunning blue color. Though the intensity of blue color varies in different lakes because of the concentration of glacier flour and interestingly, the angle of sunlight.
6. How many real lakes are in Colorado?
There are approximately 1,533 publicly owned real lakes in Colorado. No lake is greater than 10 surface acre area.
7. How much does it cost to go to Catamount Reservoir?
Visitors are charged $5 to drive up Pikes Peak Highway. Interestingly, visitors can access here not one but three pretty lakes of Colorado Springs. These are North and South Catamount Reservoir and Crystal Reservoir.
8. Can you swim in Catamount reservoir?
South Catamount Reservoir is one among the three drinking waterbodies in Colorado Springs. Though visitors can enjoy the lake and the surrounding area in many ways, but any kind of water activity is strictly prohibited in Catamount Reservoir. So, you can’t swim or windsurf in the lake. Also, the lake does not allow hunting, camping or wading. But fishing is popular in Catamount Reservoir.
9. What kind of fish are in South Catamount Reservoir?
South Catamount Reservoir is a popular fishing destination in Colorado. The reservoir is stocked with brown trout and rainbow trout. Furthermore, the reservoir gets too popular in winter for ice fishing.
