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Horsetooth Reservoir

Masonville, Colorado · Larimer County

Horsetooth Reservoir, Colorado-Big Thompson Project, furnishes the main water supply for the Poudre Valley. The reservoir is 6.5 miles long, and is formed by four large earthfill dams. Developments include 4 campgrounds, 111 campsites, and 7 boat-launch ramps. A concession-operated public marina is located at the Inlet…

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About Horsetooth Reservoir

Horsetooth Reservoir, Colorado-Big Thompson Project, furnishes the main water supply for the Poudre Valley. The reservoir is 6.5 miles long, and is formed by four large earthfill dams. Developments include 4 campgrounds, 111 campsites, and 7 boat-launch ramps. A concession-operated public marina is located at the Inlet Bay area. Concession operated restaurant (Cordova's Horsetooth Lighthouse, 970-223-3922) is located in the South Bay. A developed public swim beach located on the west side of the lake. NOTE As a result of the Modernization of the Dam project, Reclamation lowered the water at Horsetooth and began modernizing the four dams. The reservoir has approximately 1,899 water surface acres, 1,978 land acres and 25 miles of shoreline. Primary recreation activities include fishing, power boating, water skiing and camping. Primary sport fish include rainbow trout, crappie, smallmouth bass, white bass, wiper, largemouth bass, and walleye. Current Reservoir Levels Colorado State Parks operates a small visitor center at Lory State Park, located next to the north shore of Horsetooth Reservoir.

Plan Your Visit to Horsetooth Reservoir

Heading to Horsetooth Reservoir? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Horsetooth Reservoir?

No central reservation system listed for Horsetooth Reservoir. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/66) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Horsetooth Reservoir?

Off county road about 5 miles west of Fort Collins.

How do I contact Horsetooth Reservoir?

You can reach the park at phone: 970-679-4570 or email: www.parksoffice@co.larimer.co.us.