How do I access Lathrop State Park?

Lathrop State Park is a public boat ramp in Colorado. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Lathrop State Park?

Lathrop State Park supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Lathrop State Park?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Lathrop State Park?

The best time to paddle at Lathrop State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Lathrop State Park?

Water conditions at Lathrop State Park include calm, sheltered.

Is Lathrop State Park good for beginners?

Yes, Lathrop State Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Photo by Joshua J. Cotten on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Lathrop State Park

Walsenburg, CO · Boat Ramp · Public

Lathrop State Park is a public boat ramp on Horseshoe Lake near Walsenburg, Colorado. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lathrop State Park offers lake paddling on Horseshoe Lake in Colorado. Located near Walsenburg.

Lake paddlers in Colorado will appreciate Lathrop State Park, which offers direct access to Horseshoe Lake and its surrounding waters.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Walsenburg takes about 5 min, putting Lathrop State Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Lathrop State Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lathrop State Park?: Lathrop State Park is a public boat ramp in Colorado. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lathrop State Park?: Lathrop State Park supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lathrop State Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lathrop State Park?: The best time to paddle at Lathrop State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Lathrop State Park?: Water conditions at Lathrop State Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Lathrop State Park good for beginners?: Yes, Lathrop State Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 37.6029, -104.8446