How do I access Lathrop State Park?

Lathrop State Park is a public boat ramp in Colorado. We do not have confirmed fee information for this launch, so check locally before you go.

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.

green grass near body of water under blue sky during daytime

Photo by Alden Maben 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.

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At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Not verified — check locally

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.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Lathrop State Park sits about 5 min from Walsenburg, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

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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

•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lathrop State Park?: Lathrop State Park is a public boat ramp in Colorado. We do not have confirmed fee information for this launch, so check locally before you go.
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: 37.6144, -104.8445