Lathrop State Park
Overview
Lathrop State Park is Colorado's first state park, located near Walsenburg in southern Colorado. The 1,451-acre park sits in the shadow of the Spanish Peaks and features two lakes, Martin Lake and Horseshoe Lake, offering boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, sailing, and water-skiing opportunities. The park includes 103 campsites, picnic areas, approximately 8 miles of trails, an archery range, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the unique distinction of being the only Colorado State Park with an adjoining golf course. Popular activities include camping, hiking, biking, birdwatching, fishing, boating, and picnicking.
- Trails
- 4
- Viewpoints
- 10
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 40
Opening Hours
05:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Emergency SOS
Amenities Available
- Paved Parking Lots
Designated vehicle parking areas with clearly marked spaces and ADA-accessible spots mandated by federal law. Most parks offer free or low-cost daily parking passes.
- Restrooms / Flush Toilets
Modern restroom facilities with running water and proper sanitation. Subject to seasonal closures in northern states during winter months.
- Picnic Areas & Shelters
Covered pavilions equipped with tables and built-in grills. Shelters are often reservable for group events and birthday parties.
- Visitor / Ranger Station
Information hub staffed by rangers or volunteers offering maps, wildlife briefings, and educational programs for school groups and families.
- Hiking & Nature Trails
Marked paths ranging from easy, paved walks to rugged backcountry routes, blazed with color-coded markers and difficulty ratings.
- Campgrounds
Tent and RV sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Some include full electric hookups, reservable through Recreation.gov.
- Playgrounds
Modern play structures for children with rubberized safety surfaces and age-appropriate equipment meeting ASTM safety standards.
- Swimming Areas / Beaches
Designated swim zones with seasonal lifeguard coverage. Daily water quality reports are posted at the entrance and online.
- Amphitheatre
- Electrical Hookups
- Canoeing and kayaking
Required Permits
Colorado State Parks PassRequired
A valid Colorado State Parks Pass or daily vehicle pass is required for entry into Lathrop State Park. The pass must be displayed according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations. Additional permits may be required for camping, boating, fishing, or special activities within the park.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- Stay on designated trails, roads, and recreation areas.
- Wear appropriate footwear and carry sufficient drinking water, especially during hot weather.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Horsehoe Dam Fishing Access
Cuerno Verde Trail
Hogback Nature Trail
Equestrian Trail
Nearby Viewpoints
Swim Beach/Lap Lane
0.3 mi
Group Camping/Picnic
0.4 mi
Kayak Paddle Board Lunch
Kayaking
0.4 mi
Bird Watch Area
0.6 mi
Kayak Paddle Board Lunch
Kayaking
0.6 mi
Bird Watch Area
0.8 mi
Tent Camping (Pinin)
Tent Camping
0.8 mi
Tent Camping (Yucca)
Tent Camping
0.9 mi
Group Camping
0.9 mi
Group Camping/Picnic
0.9 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Download The App & Explore Anywhere
Explore interactive maps, discover trails and points of interest, and navigate confidently with the OuterMap mobile app — with detailed information and offline access wherever you go.