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State Park · CO

St. Vrain State Park

St. Vrain State Park offers diverse outdoor recreation across its lakes, wetlands, and open spaces, providing excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping near Longmont, Colorado.

State Park11394+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1139

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About St. Vrain State Park

St. Vrain State Park offers diverse outdoor recreation across its lakes, wetlands, and open spaces, providing excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping near Longmont, Colorado.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

St. Vrain State Park is located in northern Colorado, encompassing over 1,100 acres of recreational lands centered around two reservoirs: Union Reservoir and Joe Wright Reservoir. The park’s landscape features prairie grasslands, wetlands, and brush-covered hills that provide varied habitats for an array of wildlife species, including herons, bald eagles, and various waterfowl. Established in 1964, St. Vrain remains a popular destination for anglers targeting trout and warm-water species, as well as non-motorized boating. The park offers over 14 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Birdwatchers appreciate the park’s wetlands and riparian zones, which attract migratory and resident birds throughout the year. Popular recreational activities include camping at its two developed campgrounds with full amenities, kayaking, paddleboarding, and wintertime ice fishing. The park’s proximity to the city of Longmont makes it an accessible outdoor escape for residents and visitors alike. Facilities include picnic areas, fishing docks, boat ramps, and a swim beach. The park’s setting in the Front Range foothills creates scenic vistas of nearby mountains and expansive sky views during sunset and sunrise. St. Vrain State Park combines water-based recreation with trail access and wildlife observation to provide a well-rounded park experience in a semi-arid environment. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife habitats and adhere to park regulations to help maintain its ecological health and recreational value.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near St. Vrain State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Running the Eagle Trail in Boulder★ 7.8⌖ 7 miTrail Running
Boulder County Open Space

Running the Eagle Trail in Boulder

Explore the Eagle Trail, a 5-mile loop in Boulder, CO, with moderate difficulty. Offering stunning views of the Flatirons, this trail is perfect for trail running and wildlife watching. Busy in summer, fall offers the best season for fewer crowds and colorful foliage.

Trail RunningView Details→
Running the Boulder Reservoir Loop in Boulder★ 7.4⌖ 7 miTrail Running
6300-6308 63rd St

Running the Boulder Reservoir Loop in Boulder

Explore the 2.5-mile Boulder Reservoir Loop in Boulder, CO. This easy, scenic trail is ideal for trail running and birding. Enjoy stunning views of mountains and water, especially during spring and fall.

Trail RunningView Details→
Paddling at Boulder Reservoir in Boulder★ 7.0⌖ 8 miPaddleboarding
Boulder

Paddling at Boulder Reservoir in Boulder

Paddle at Boulder Reservoir in Boulder, CO. Experience easy access for kayaking and paddleboarding with stunning Flatirons views. Rentals available on-site. Ideal for beginner-friendly water adventures and moderate crowds during summer.

PaddleboardingView Details→
Birdwatching at Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat in Boulder★ 7.0⌖ 9 miBirdwatching
Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat

Birdwatching at Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat in Boulder

Explore the birdwatching trails at Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat, located 15 minutes from Boulder, CO. With easy trails, it's a great spot for birdwatching and photography, especially during spring and fall migrations. Enjoy the quiet, scenic environment without large crowds.

BirdwatchingView Details→
Ride Left Hand Canyon in North Boulder★ 7.5⌖ 10 miGravel Biking
Boulder

Ride Left Hand Canyon in North Boulder

Explore a 34.1-mile gravel biking route in North Boulder with elevation gains of 1,581 feet. A beginner-friendly ride through diverse terrains offers scenic views and local wildlife. Enjoy the tranquility year-round, especially in spring.

Gravel BikingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Union Reservoir – a popular fishing and paddle sports destination✦ Wetlands providing excellent birdwatching opportunities✦ Developed campgrounds with full amenities near the reservoirs✦ Multi-use trails winding through diverse prairie and riparian habitats
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in St. Vrain State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in St. Vrain State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in St. Vrain State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in St. Vrain State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily vehicle entry fee or annual Colorado State Parks pass required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in St. Vrain State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Union Reservoir Campground

Located near Union Reservoir, offering tent and RV sites with water, electric hookups, and nearby restrooms.

Joe Wright Campground

Smaller campground on the east side of Joe Wright Reservoir, featuring basic amenities and close access to the lake.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near St. Vrain State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Longmont
⌖ 1.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Longmont, Colorado

A vibrant hub with easy access to the Front Range's outdoor adventures, blending urban flair with rugged trails and scenic landscapes.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Lyons
⌖ 8.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lyons, Colorado

A small town with a big heart for outdoor lovers, providing easy access to the Rockies and the serene landscapes of Northern Colorado.

Spring, Summer, and FallExplore Town
Erie
⌖ 9.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Erie, Colorado

A vibrant Colorado Front Range town offering quick access to diverse outdoor activities, blending laid-back charm with year-round adventure opportunities.

Spring through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for snow sports nearbyExplore Town
Berthoud
⌖ 9.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Berthoud, Colorado

A friendly small town offering easy access to mountain adventures and plains recreation with a relaxed, community-driven outdoor lifestyle.

Spring through Fall, with winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Firestone
⌖ 10.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Firestone, Colorado

A growing Colorado Front Range town offering easy access to outdoor adventures with a relaxed suburban feel and proximity to the Rockies.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Frederick
⌖ 11.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Frederick, Colorado

A friendly small town offering easy access to Front Range trails, regional parks, and open spaces with a welcoming community vibe and proximity to bigger adventure hubs.

Spring through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in St. Vrain State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.