Lathrop State Park
Lathrop State Park
4.5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
94 reviews
Excellent
52
Very good
25
Average
14
Poor
1
Terrible
2
Cyndi01
Louisville, Colorado49 contributions
Jul 2021
Lathrop! What an experience I had there last week! First of all, it is a very nice state park with spotlessly clean bathrooms. I enjoyed the paved bike paths around the lakes and riding my bike on the road out to Horseshoe lake in the evening. If I had more time, I would have enjoyed swimming the lap lane in Martin Lake! Yucca Campground is more primitive and good for tent camping, but it seems to be near highway noise and not that attractive. I stayed in Pinon D loop and got the last available site on my overnight stop-over. It is full of large RV's and power boats on trailers, if that is your thing. The park offered a lovely free concert, but about 8:00 p.m. the campground turned into noisy bedlam that drowned out the concert with blasting electric music and people partying. I counted 50 people gathered at one of the sites in D loop, where an RV had set up a bar and food table for a loud party. I would never go back there on a Saturday again.
Written July 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mysugarpie
Tulsa, OK450 contributions
May 2022
I wish I could give it 5 stars, but there is no sewer and only potable water.
Campsites are very well spaced and fairly level. We were there during an unexpected May snow event and got 14" of snow. It was very beautiful and the Park Ranger came by with a ladder so we could remove snow from our slider. The snow plow cleared the paved roads and we were able to go for a walk. The scenery, especially the snow covered Spanish Peaks, was humbling.
Glad our heater worked!
Campsites are very well spaced and fairly level. We were there during an unexpected May snow event and got 14" of snow. It was very beautiful and the Park Ranger came by with a ladder so we could remove snow from our slider. The snow plow cleared the paved roads and we were able to go for a walk. The scenery, especially the snow covered Spanish Peaks, was humbling.
Glad our heater worked!
Written October 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mysugarpie
Tulsa, OK450 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
In spite of the rainy weather, we enjoyed our 2nd visit here. Between the showers, we managed to fit in walking around the park that has maintained very natural landscaping. Our site was large and all pull thru with electric only and with potable water. They provide two modern dump stations and ample trash cans. There are large evergreen trees, amphitheater, and clean modern restrooms with pay showers. We didn't have opportunity to check out their Country Club. Nearby Horseshoe and Martin Lakes are fairly large and were a pretty vivid blue.
We would certainly recommend.
We would certainly recommend.
Written July 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jnetter_COSpgs
Colorado Springs4 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
If you want to enjoy the lake go as a day trip. The small beach and swimming area are nice and makes a fun day for kids.
We stayed in the non-electric loop and did not have a great experience. The sites have no shade and we struggled to find a flat spot without cactus for our tent since there was no tent pad. I expected primitive bathrooms, but of the two pit toilets one had no seat and the other had a door that wouldn’t close.
We asked the rangers a question about where to wash dishes within the campsite area and a question about the birds we saw at night, and neither ranger really knew the answers to either.
The biggest complaint however is the noise. Other reviews mentioned being able to hear the highway, but the highway is VERY close and the traffic noise is VERY loud. This was not only a problem with trying to sleep, but camping is meant to be in nature and enjoying the outdoors, not hearing semi trucks 500 feet away at all hours of the night.
We stayed in the non-electric loop and did not have a great experience. The sites have no shade and we struggled to find a flat spot without cactus for our tent since there was no tent pad. I expected primitive bathrooms, but of the two pit toilets one had no seat and the other had a door that wouldn’t close.
We asked the rangers a question about where to wash dishes within the campsite area and a question about the birds we saw at night, and neither ranger really knew the answers to either.
The biggest complaint however is the noise. Other reviews mentioned being able to hear the highway, but the highway is VERY close and the traffic noise is VERY loud. This was not only a problem with trying to sleep, but camping is meant to be in nature and enjoying the outdoors, not hearing semi trucks 500 feet away at all hours of the night.
Written August 8, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
200Suzanne
Durango, Colorado, United States3 contributions
Sep 2013 • Couples
The non-electric campsites are only a few feet away from highway 160, busy with truck traffic and NOISEY.... Very unpleasant. There are few level sites. The vegetation is scrub, so lots of noise and no privacy. For $23 (park entry fee plus camp fee), it's definitely not worth it. An alternative would be to go south of highway 160 on state highway 12 into San Isabel National Forest. There are 2 organized places to camp and possible dispersed camping. Or, check Lathrop out for yourself in advance by asking to drive through before paying.
Written September 20, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mezzojenny
Fort Worth, TX36 contributions
Jun 2013 • Friends
They have an amazing swimming beach at Lathrop. VERY clean and clear water! We took our little grandaughter and she loved it. No boats to disturb.
Written April 19, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
artandroxanne
San Diego, CA387 contributions
Apr 2013 • Couples
Lathrop State Park is a great place to camp, play, hike, bike, boat, fish and watch birds and other wildlife. The park is west of the town of Walsenburg. They have wonderful camping. If you want the pure camping experience they have an area for that. If you want to take a trailer or other RV, they have electrical hook-ups in another campground. There’s water posts where you can fill up your tank and they have a dump station. In loop C there are some stunning views of Spanish Peaks with the lake in the foreground. We camped in site C68 this trip. Other times we camped in D loop for a view of the hogback ridge and the Sangre de Christo mountains. If you have an annual pass, it's only 20 dollars per night.
We recommend the hogback trail. It’s perhaps three miles around the loop and offers some great scenery. It’s not strenuous but there is an uphill grade. Take your camera as there are some nice views. And be sure to pick up the brochure for the trail at the visitor center. It’s free and gives you a little more information about what you’re seeing. It’s well written.
There’s a path that goes around Martin lake. It’s a bit rough for bikes unless you have really good suspension.
In the evening, take a leisurely drive around both lakes and stop at the coves to watch the osprey fish. You’re likely to see deer as well if you drive slowly and watch for them. Then park on the dam and watch the sunset. Check out the night skies while you’re here. You won’t believe how many stars you can see.
When you want to go into town, we recommend the charming little town of La Veta. There’s a great bakery, but it’s only open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday so plan accordingly. And stop by the Forest Service visitor center if you plan to do some serious recreating in the area.
We recommend the hogback trail. It’s perhaps three miles around the loop and offers some great scenery. It’s not strenuous but there is an uphill grade. Take your camera as there are some nice views. And be sure to pick up the brochure for the trail at the visitor center. It’s free and gives you a little more information about what you’re seeing. It’s well written.
There’s a path that goes around Martin lake. It’s a bit rough for bikes unless you have really good suspension.
In the evening, take a leisurely drive around both lakes and stop at the coves to watch the osprey fish. You’re likely to see deer as well if you drive slowly and watch for them. Then park on the dam and watch the sunset. Check out the night skies while you’re here. You won’t believe how many stars you can see.
When you want to go into town, we recommend the charming little town of La Veta. There’s a great bakery, but it’s only open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday so plan accordingly. And stop by the Forest Service visitor center if you plan to do some serious recreating in the area.
Written April 25, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mimmi71
Walsenburg, CO4 contributions
Nov 2013 • Couples
What a wonderful place to picnic, boat, swim, walk or jog, ride bikes, and camp! We live close and are there at least twice a week throughout the year. The view of the Spanish Peaks is priceless! Lake Martin and Horseshoe lake are extremely nice and clean. Canoeing on Horseshoe Lake is pleasant as there are no motorized vehicles (electric trolling motors allowed) so you have no large wakes tipping you over! Electric campsites are very nice and not crammed on top of another site and accommodations are very neat and clean. If you haven't found this peaceful corner of Colorado, and like a laid-back atmosphere, check it out. You won't be disappointed!
Written November 25, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
acker19
Colorado Springs, CO65 contributions
Jul 2017 • Family
From Colorado Springs and we've been looking for a CLEAN lake with no success until now.
Love the swim beach here. Plenty of sand area, and it even has a swim lane for those individuals who want to practice laps. The park is very very clean. Lake has a nice smooth bottom and clear water. No icky slimy green stuff float around. Our dog was able to come with us. Dogs are allowed on the grass only .
Loved the first come first serve wind barrier picnic area w bench however if you aren't lucky, you can bring your own tent , tables and chairs and set up on the clean grass. Park rangers angers always monitoring the area also which was nice.
I came here with two kids under 12. Will be back hopefully. Questions? Email me at mahoney20022003@gmail.com
Love the swim beach here. Plenty of sand area, and it even has a swim lane for those individuals who want to practice laps. The park is very very clean. Lake has a nice smooth bottom and clear water. No icky slimy green stuff float around. Our dog was able to come with us. Dogs are allowed on the grass only .
Loved the first come first serve wind barrier picnic area w bench however if you aren't lucky, you can bring your own tent , tables and chairs and set up on the clean grass. Park rangers angers always monitoring the area also which was nice.
I came here with two kids under 12. Will be back hopefully. Questions? Email me at mahoney20022003@gmail.com
Written July 3, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Puebloan
Pueblo, CO41 contributions
May 2014 • Family
Lathrop was the first state Park in Colorado. The Park has two lakes with excellant fishing opportunities. A 9 hole golf course is adjacent to the park. Swimming, fishing, golf, boating, camping, and hiking are only a few activities available. A
awesome view of the Huajatolla Mountains will keep you mesmerized all day. If you are in the Walsenburg area this park is well worth a visit.
awesome view of the Huajatolla Mountains will keep you mesmerized all day. If you are in the Walsenburg area this park is well worth a visit.
Written May 30, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Do you sell day passes to Lathrop state park?
Maria R
Walsenburg, CO22 contributions
There are day passes sold. I don't know the cost. If you're able to spend a few days in the area, the Spanish Peaks library in Walsenburg has free day passes to Lathrop. I don't know if you ask in advance or can get a free pass on the day of...
Kristine H
Castle Rock, CO1 contribution
Is lake windy during summer months? How busy for waterskiing and wakeboarding?
Butterflydays
Cape Girardeau, MO1,532 contributions
It was quiet windy the day we were there. We visited in the middle of September.
angelikao635
1 contribution
can you take your stand up paddle board to the lake and use it
Jpcrus
58 contributions
I didn't see anyone paddle boarding, but I wold say yes because they have a nice spot where you could put in a kayak.
GordonsvilleGal
Washington DC, DC239 contributions
Which campsites specifically offer great views at Lathrop State Park? Not just the loop, the number of the campsite.
Jill B
94 contributions
In Loop A, 25 through 36, Loop B, 53 through 56. These sites offer great views of the Spanish Peaks and the Cuchara Valley and LaVeta Pass.
savanita
Lafayette, CO16 contributions
Does the campground have electric hookups? I can't seem to find anything about it, and since we always travel with pets, that'll be the option that works for us. We're thinking about coming in February, though, so the weather will have to cooperate, and we'd really like an electric hookup.
Can anyone send me a link to info about the campground?
Brian H
Osceola, AR74 contributions
yes.. it's called "improved" camping facilities.. and you can see it on their website.
Campgrounds
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.
(Updated: 5/21/2014 1:50 PM)
tripadvisor doesn't allow websites nor html.. so you have to google it and look at the "facilities" offerings on the Lathrop site.
for whatever it's worth.. the place even has a golf course.. so getting electricity can't be a problem.. lol.
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Claim your listingLathrop State Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Lathrop State Park
- Hotels near Lathrop State Park:
- (0.00 mi) Lathrop State Park Campground
- (3.35 mi) Best Western Rambler
- (1.21 mi) Rio Cucharas Inn
- (3.25 mi) Anchor Motel
- (0.57 mi) Spanish Peaks Inn
- Restaurants near Lathrop State Park:
- (4.20 mi) George's Drive Inn
- (3.22 mi) La Plaza Restaurant
- (3.30 mi) Tinas Family Cafe
- (3.29 mi) Serendipity
- (3.26 mi) Corines Mexican Food Restaurant
Lathrop State Park Information
Excellent Reviews | 52 |
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Very Good Reviews | 25 |
Lathrop State Park Photos | 54 |