Activities at Lathrop | Colorado State Parks

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Activities

Biking - 10/28/2010

Bicycles are allowed on the multi-use Cuerno Verde Trail, or on park roads. No bikes are allowed on the Hogback Trail. The park’s 3-mile closed loop Cuerno Verde Trail is popular with bicyclists. The trail goes around Martin Lake. See complete trail descriptions on the Lathrop Trails page.

Birding - 3/15/2011

It is time to get out and enjoy a fascinating birding experience at Lathrop State Park. Unusual birds have been seen in the area and there are always lots of beautiful birds on the Park.

Boating - 11/3/2010

Lathrop’s two lakes offer something for every water recreationist, from the power boater and canoeist to the sailor, swimmer and angler. Because of Lathrop’s location in southern Colorado between the foothills and plains, the lakes’ water is often warmer than most mountain lakes and reservoirs at higher elevations, averaging 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Bring your jetskis and waterskis and enjoy these activities on Martin Lake. Check out Lathrop's Water Activities link for additional information. Boating is limited to hand launched boats from November 1 to April 1 each year.

Camping - 10/28/2010

Lathrop has 103 campsites and three group-camping areas. The campgrounds accommodate motor homes, trailers and tents, and offer either a basic or improved camping experience. Group campground reservations can only be made through the park by calling (719)738-2376. Visit Lathrop's Camping page for additional information.

Education Programs - 10/28/2010

Begin on Memorial Day weekend and end on Labor Day weekend. Each Friday and Saturday a different presentation. Astronomy, geology, and history of the area are just some of the many programs presented.

Fishing - 10/28/2010

Martin and Horseshoe Lakes are stocked with rainbow trout, channel catfish, bass, walleye, blue gill, crappie and wipers. Both lakes are open and fishing has been very good for trout and Northern Pike. Only found in Horseshoe are tiger muskies. Martin Lake is known for northern pike and saugeye. Ice fishing is not recommended. A fishing pond for children under 16 years old is located near the Martin Lake Dam. The swim and ski beach, Martin Lake Dam, boat docks, and boat ramps are closed to fishing. Fishing licenses are required for everyone 16 years old and older and can be purchased at the Visitor Center. A handicap fishing access area is available at the west side of Martin Lake.

Geocaching - 10/28/2010

Lathrop has five geocaches located through out the park at different points of interest. All caches are easily accessible and are a great way to experience what Lathrop has to offer. Coordinates for the caches are: POI Cache #1: N 37º 37.169 W 104º 49.879 POI Cache #2: N 37º 36.963 W 104º 50.143 POI Cache #3: N 37º 36.646 W 104º 50.528 POI Cache #4: N 37º 36.397 W 104º 50.497 Walsenburg's First: N 37º 36.145 W 104º 49.907

Golfing - 10/28/2010

Besides hiking, camping and boating, visitors can enjoy a round of golf at the park’s 9-hole course, Walsenburg Golf Course. Call the golf course at 719-738-2730.

Group Camping - 10/28/2010

Group Site A - tents only! For groups up to 30 people. No electricity. Cottonwood trees, vault toilets, 3 large (16x16) tent pads, 3 picnic tables, water nearby, stand up grill and fire pit. Limited parking up to 8 passenger vehicles. NO TRAILERS OR RV's. Group Site B - For groups up to 36 people. NO electricity. Holds 4-6 camping units and 4 additional vehicles. NO MORE THAN 6 CAMPING UNITS. Tents may be set if if room allows. Small trees, picnic tables, grill, vault toilets and water near by. All vehicles that enter the park must have a current park pass. NEW: Los Alamos Group Camping and Picnic Area. This area formerly used only for group picnics is now a camping area with 7 electrical hookups for RV's. The perfect location for large family gatherings, groups who enjoy watersports, etc. Near Martin Lake Shoreline and beach area. Call park office at 719-738-2376 for fees, availability and reservations.

Hiking - 10/28/2010

The park’s 3-mile closed loop Cuerno Verde Trail is popular with walkers and is handicap accessible. The trail goes around Martin Lake. The hikers-only Hogback Trail makes a great nature walk. Along the two-mile trail, marker posts accompany a self-guided brochure containing information about the area's plant and animal life and its history. See complete trail descriptions in the Trails section.

Hunting - 10/28/2010

The park allows waterfowl and small game hunting in posted areas around Horseshoe Lake during established hunting seasons after Labor Day until the Friday before Memorial Day. Only shotguns and bows and arrows are permitted. Hunting licenses are required. The park does not have any duck blinds to rent. Call park for hunting area information at (719) 738-2376.

Jet Skiing - 10/28/2010

Bring Your Jetski and enjoy Martin Lake on a hot summer day.

Picnicking - 10/28/2010

Lathrop's picnic areas, which received an outdoor recreation award for America's Top 15 Picnic Areas, are situated around both Martin Lake and Horseshoe Reservoir. Each table sits lakeside, has a stand up fire grill, and most tables are shaded. Picnic tables are on a first-come, first serve basis.

Swimming - 10/28/2010

Available from mid-May to Labor Day weekend, Martin Lake's swim beach is available to young and old alike.

Water Skiing - 10/28/2010

Martin Lake provides a great water skiing experience on hot summer days.

Winter Camping - 10/28/2010

None available.

Last Modified Date: 4/22/2011 9:31 AM