Lake with purple sky

Horsetooth Reservoir Vacation Rentals

Horsetooth Reservoir, Colorado, United States
40.5544° N, -105.1554° W
Horsetooth Reservoir
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Just west of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir stretches 6.5 miles along the Dakota Hogback, offering an impressive mix of adventure and natural beauty. Formed in 1949 as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, it supplies municipal water and irrigation—but it’s also a powerhouse for outdoor fun. Boating, swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing for walleye and smallmouth bass are top draws. Hiking and biking trails loop around the reservoir, while bouldering along the shoreline is a favorite among climbers. Cliff diving is prohibited, but the views from South Bay Swim Beach and Lory State Park are unforgettable. With 1,900 acres of public land and nearly 600,000 annual visitors, Horsetooth is Northern Colorado’s lake-life centerpiece.

Surface area (mi)
4.78
Max depth (ft)
200.13
Elevation (ft)
5433.07
Shoreline length (mi)
24.85
Best time to go
Visit Horsetooth Reservoir from late June to early September, when sun-drenched days invite kayaking and paddleboarding amidst vibrant sunsets. Experience the serene beauty, fewer crowds on weekdays, and the annual Rocky Mountain Showdown for a perfect blend of adventure and leisure.
Water Quality
Horsetooth Reservoir's water exhibits a deep blue hue, reflecting the surrounding foothills and sky. The water clarity is crystal-clear, offering excellent visibility for activities like fishing and swimming.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Horsetooth Reservoir

Nearby lakes

Where to stay

Musical living room. The brown couch pulls out into a double bed.
Steps to Lake Mcintosh, Basement 1BR
Longmont, Colorado, United States of America
$150 night

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Horsetooth Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, you can swim at Horsetooth Reservoir. There are two swim beaches: one at the South Bay Campground and another at the Sunrise Day Use Area. Swimming is permitted from sunrise to sunset.

  • Horsetooth Reservoir is a popular destination because it offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, camping, swimming, scuba diving, rock climbing, and water skiing. The reservoir is surrounded by 1,900 acres of public lands and has trails for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

  • Yes, there are specific fishing regulations at Horsetooth Reservoir. For smallmouth bass, the minimum size limit is 12 inches. Fishing is also prohibited in the inlet area from March 15 to May 31.

  • The South Bay beach at Horsetooth Reservoir is best for families. It has a sandy beach, a swim area, and is close to the campground and Group Pavilion. This makes it convenient for families to spend the day together.

  • Horsetooth Reservoir is near the towns of Fort Collins, Loveland, and Windsor. It is located west of Fort Collins, which is about a ten-minute drive away. Other nearby towns include Greeley, Evans, and Erie.