Boyd Lake State Park: A guide to visiting this ‘water-recreation haven’ beneath 14,000-foot peak
This water-recreation haven sits at the bottom of Long’s Peak and the mountains of the Continental Divide, drawing in visitors with a variety of activities.
Guests can enjoy everything from boating, camping, water skiing and swimmin, to fishing, paddle sports, picnicking, bicycling, hunting, and wildlife watching.
History of the park
Boyd Lake was first constructed in 1905-1906 by an irrigation engineer named Burton D. Sanborn.
The lake was sold to The Colorado Power Company in 1913, and then sold again to the Greeley & Loveland Irrigation Company for $285,000 in 1926. That company has held control of the lake since, but the area was leased by the Division of Wildlife to create a wildlife area from 1958-1965. It became a state recreation area under Colorado Game, Fish and Parks in 1965.
The Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation took over operation of Boyd Lake State Recreation Area in 1972. Colorado State Parks bought the recreation surface rights and access to the water in 1978.
Which recreation it’s known for
Boyd Lake State Park is known for its opportunities for water sports. Visitors can sail across the water, canoe or even go waterskiing, wakeboarding and fishing.
Popular camping, lodging options
Boyd Lake State Park features 140 paved campsites that can accommodate tents, pick-up trailers, and motorhomes. The sites are equipped for vehicles up to 40 feet, and they offer 20-, 30-, and 50-amp electric hook-ups, as well as picnic tables and grills.
Popular trails
City Trail: 4.9 miles
ADA Fishing Pier: 0.1 miles
Swim Beach Point: 1 mile
Grassland Trail: 0.4 miles
Other things to know
The Boyd Lake Marina is closed for the 2026 season because of the end of its operating contract. There is no estimated reopening date, as a new concessionaire will not be selected due to the forecast of low water levels.
Heron Cove boat ramp is closed because of low water.
However, Boyd Lake’s main boat ramp is open as of March 6.
Boaters will need an aquatic nuisance species (ANS) stamp, current boat registration and a pre-launch boat inspection at the boat ramp. Vessels and other floating devices that are hand-launched and human-powered are exempt from ANS inspections.
Where to eat
McGraff’s American Grill: Located in Loveland, this restaurant serves casual American fare.
Loveland Breakfast Club: Also located in Loveland, this spot serves up hearty American breakfast favorites.
3 Margaritas: This Loveland restaurant offers Mexican cuisine.
Plan your visit here.
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