Park Activities
Archery
An archery practice range and parking area is available west of the main entrance of the park along Hwy 160. If you are only using the archery range, no fee is required.
We ask that you treat this area with respect, pick up trash and help the park maintain it for long term use. Thank you for your cooperation.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:40 AM)
Biking
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.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:40 AM)
Birding
Lathrop is known for the wonderful birding experience it provides. One of the great birding experiences Colorado has to offer is right here at Lathrop State Park.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:40 AM)
Boating
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. Boating is limited to hand-launched boats from October 15 to March 15 each year, unless otherwise posted.
Check out Lathrop’s Water Activities page for additional information, or for current water conditions, call the park visitor center.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:43 AM)
Camping
(Roadrunner by volunteer Roger Kuhl)
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.
Camping Reservations can be made by visiting www.cpwshop.com or by calling (800) 244-5613.
Visit Lathrop’s camping page for additional information.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:44 AM)
Dog-friendly
Dogs are welcome in the park as long as:
- they are on a six-foot or shorter leash at all times
- their waste is properly disposed of
Dogs are not allowed at the swim beach.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:44 AM)
Education Programs
Programs begin on Memorial Day weekend and end on Labor Day weekend. Presentations are offered on Fridays and Saturdays. Naturalist-led Junior Ranger Programs are offered on Saturday mornings throughout the summer. Astronomy, geology, and history of the area are just some of the many programs presented. Naturalist Programs for groups are offered upon request.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:44 AM)
Fishing
The lakes are stocked with trout, and saugeye, as well as home to catfish, northern pike, and tiger muskie. Stop by the Visitor Center to brag about your best catch, and see if it gets in the record books.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:44 AM)
Geocaching
Lathrop has thirteen geocaches located throughout 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 may be found at geocaching.com.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:44 AM)
Golfing
Besides hiking, camping, and boating, visitors can enjoy a round of golf at the 9-hole course, Walsenburg Golf Course is operated by the City of Walsenburg. For more information or to book a tee time, call the golf course at (719) 738-2730 or visit golfwalsenburg.com.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:45 AM)
Group Camping
Lathrop offers three group camping areas for groups of various sizes.
For more information, see the Lathrop camping page.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:45 AM)
Hiking
(The collared lizard, which is rare to this area may be seen on the Hogback trail. Photo by volunteer, Roger Kuhl)
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.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:45 AM)
Horseback Riding
We are pleased to announce that we now have an equestrian trail west of Horseshoe Lake. Park pass is required, then park in the designated area on the west side of Horseshoe Lake and use the posted equestrian trail from that point. Please keep horse droppings picked up in the parking area.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:45 AM)
Hunting
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.
Hunting licenses are required. Only shotguns and bows and arrows are permitted.
The park does not have any duck blinds to rent. Call for hunting area information at (719) 738-2376.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:46 AM)
Jet Skiing
Bring your Jetski and enjoy Martin Lake on a hot summer day.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:46 AM)
Picnicking
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.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:47 AM)
Swimming
Swim Beach is OPEN for the season.
(Updated: 5/27/2024 8:27 AM)
Water Skiing
Martin Lake provides a great water skiing experience on hot summer days.
(Updated: 3/5/2024 11:47 AM)
Winter Camping
Pinon Campground Loop D is available throughout the winter months.
Dump station is also available.
(Updated: 6/21/2024 10:32 AM)