Lake Pueblo State Park - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There's no shortage of things to do at Lake Pueblo State Park.covering over 60 square miles, the park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. fishing is a popular pastime at the lake, and anglers can cast their lines from the shore or from a boat. in addition to being a great spot for fishing, the lake is also ideal for swimming, boating, and windsurfing. hiking and mountain biking are other popular activities at the park, and there are numerous trails to explore. alternatively, visitors can take a scenic drive through the park or go wildlife watching in search of eagles, bighorn sheep, and other animals. with so much to do, it's no wonder that Lake Pueblo State Park is one of Colorado's most popular state parks.

The history of Lake Pueblo State Park in Pueblo County, Colorado is a long and varied one. The area now occupied by the park has been home to humans for centuries, and the lake itself is a man-made reservoir that was created in the early 20th century. Archaeological evidence indicates that the first people to live in the area were the Ancestral Puebloans, who made their homes along the banks of the Arkansas River. The river was an important source of water for these early inhabitants, and it is thought that they also used it for trade and transportation.

In more recent history, the area now known as Lake Pueblo State Park was used as a U.S. Army training ground during World War II. After the war, the site was turned over to the Bureau of Reclamation for use as a reservoir. The dam that impounds the reservoir was completed in 1975, and the lake has since become a popular recreation spot for boaters, fishermen, and nature lovers. Today, Lake Pueblo State Park is a beautiful place where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities amidst stunning scenery.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy all the park has to offer, from swimming and boating to hiking and camping. Fall brings beautiful colors to the landscape, along with cooler temperatures that are ideal for spending time outdoors. And in the winter, the park provides a stunning backdrop for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

1. Get there early. Lake Pueblo State Park is a popular destination, so try to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds. If you can, aim for a weekday visit rather than a weekend.
2. Wear appropriate footwear. Lake Pueblo State Park has a lot of rocky terrain, so wear sturdy shoes that will protect your feet and help you keep your balance.
3. Be bear aware. Lake Pueblo State Park is home to black bears, so be sure to store all food and trash properly and keep an eye out for any wildlife while you're hiking.
4. Take your time . With over 60 miles of trails, Lake Pueblo State Park has something for everyone . Whether you want a leisurely stroll or an all-day hike , there's no need to rush . Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
5. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and water, as the sun can be harsh at high altitudes.
6. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, as there are some dangerous areas within the park boundaries.
7. Leave your pet at home. Pets are not allowed in Lake Pueblo State Park, so leave them at home where they'll be safe and comfortable.
8. Pack a lunch. There are no restaurants in the park, so be sure to pack enough food and snacks for the day. picnic tables are available near the lake shore if you want to eat al fresco.
    

1. Lake Pueblo is actually two lakes that were formed by the damming of the Arkansas River. The north lake is known as Sunset reservoir, while the south lake is called cpu lake and its park features over 20 miles of trails for hiking and biking.
2. Fishing is not the only popular pastime at Lake Pueblo – the lake is also a popular spot for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
3. The park offers several different camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and group campsites.
4. The park regularly hosts special events, including concerts, ranger-led programs, and stargazing nights.
5. Lake Pueblo State Park is one of the most visited state parks in Colorado; over 1 million people visit each year.

However, due to its size and the variety of activities available, visitors should plan to spend at least a full day exploring all that the park has to offer. The maximum time required to explore the entire park is around eight hours, although this will vary depending on how many stops are made along the way.

To reach Lake Pueblo State Park in Pueblo County, Colorado, take Highway 96 west from Pueblo. The park will be signposted on the right after about 10 miles. Highway 96 winds through the park for another 3 miles before reaching the visitor center. From there, follow the signs to your desired destination within the park. 

Admission to the park is $9 per vehicle ( Colorado residents receive a discount). Annual passes are also available for purchase.

Lake Pueblo State Park is open year-round from 5 AM. to 10 PM.