A closer look at Lathrop State Park, located just west of Walsenburg.

Description: A common criticism among the few received by Colorado’s outdoor recreation scene is its lack of offerings on the water. That criticism doesn’t exist here on these 1,594 acres under the gaze of the Spanish Peaks. Martin Lake and Horseshoe Lake cater to motorists and non-motorists alike, with Martin reserved for the jetskiers and boaters, while Horseshoe is wakeless, a prime spot for canoeists, kayakers, and the growing number of standup paddleboarders. Picnics on the beach are popular, as is fishing. Have your clubs in tow and take advantage of the state’s park system’s only golf course, spanning 3,110 yards with nine holes. Along with the Spanish Peaks, trail users are treated with views of Greenhorn Mountain and Pikes Peak.

Activities: Water sports; lakeside picnic tables; two campgrounds with 103 sites accommodating tents and RVs; golfing; archery range; 13 geocache sites; equestrian-only trail; Hogback trail for hikers; Cuerno Verde Trail for hikers and bikers; small-game hunting in posted areas.

Wildlife: Thriving catfish, bass, walleye, trout and bluegill are in both lakes, with Horseshoe Lake a destination for anglers after tiger muskies.

Fun fact: Lathrop is Colorado’s first state park, established in 1962. It is named after the first state parks director, Harold Lathrop.

Address: 70 County Road 502, Walsenburg, 81089.

Contact: 719-738-2376, [email protected]

Hours: Park open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., fishing all day.

Directions: Take Interstate 25 south for about 90 miles to exit 52. Take I-25 business loop for 2.5 miles to Walsenburg. From town, go west about 3 miles on U.S. 160 to park.