Lathrop State Park, State park in Huerfano County, US.
Lathrop State Park lies about 3 miles west of Walsenburg in Huerfano County, centered on two lakes, Martin and Horseshoe, at roughly 1,960 meters. A paved or packed surface at the water's edge gives onto the rippled lake, with a low tree-lined shore and a mountain range behind. The park holds a nine-hole golf course and, since 2024, 4.5 miles of dirt mountain bike trails on its north side.
Founded in 1962, this was Colorado's first state park and honors Harold W. Lathrop, who served as the initial director of the state's parks and recreation authority. The establishment represented a major step in the state's commitment to land preservation.
The park's name honors Harold Lathrop, the first director of Colorado's state parks, and the site opened as the state's first state park in 1962. The golf course restaurant and lounge looks out over the lakes toward the Spanish Peaks, a National Natural Landmark. Anglers come for tiger muskie, rainbow trout, bass, catfish, northern pike, bluegill, saugeye and wipers.
The park lies 3 miles west of Walsenburg, with two lakes, Martin and Horseshoe, and a beach, boat ramps and picnic areas. A nine-hole golf course and 4.5 miles of dirt mountain bike trails, open to hikers and class 1 and 2 e-bikes, sit on the north side. The park sits at 1,960 meters, so expect cool nights.
The property is home to Colorado's only golf course located within any state park. This unusual mix of outdoor recreation and sport draws visitors seeking both activities in a single location.
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