Colorado’s first state park, Lathrop State Park is 1,594 acres of recreational enjoyment nestled in the shadow of the Spanish Peaks in Southern Colorado.
The park’s two lakes offer a variety of boating and angling opportunities for all types of water recreation. Martin Lake offers water skiing, power and sail boating. Because Martin is a warm-water lake, it makes it great for swimmers. Horseshoe Lake is a peaceful haven for canoeists, kayakers, sailors and other boaters at wakeless speeds. Catfish, bass, walleye, trout and blue gill thrive in both lakes. Horseshoe Lake is known for its large tiger muskies.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Camping
Pinon Campground is open for camping. Restrooms and Showers are available in the center of each loop. If you would like to occupy a site, you may reserve it 24/7 by calling 1-800-244-5613.
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 be made 6 months in advance and only through the park by calling (719)738-2376.
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.
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.
Geocaching
Lathrop has thirteen 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.
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. Enjoy a quiet place to have breakfast, lunch and beverage of your choice at the club house.
Hiking
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.
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 parking area.
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.
Jet Skiing
Bring Your Jetski and enjoy Martin Lake on a hot summer day.
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.
Water Skiing
Martin Lake provides a great water skiing experience on hot summer days.
Winter Camping
Pinon Campground D Loop is available throughout the winter months. Restrooms and Showers are available, dump station is also available without water.
