Inlet Bay Campground

For Coloradans, the perfect escape often involves a blend of accessible nature and ample opportunities for recreation. Nestled in the foothills just west of Fort Collins, Inlet Bay Campground at Horsetooth Reservoir embodies this ideal, offering a vibrant lakeside experience that caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a dynamic hub for boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and simply soaking in the stunning views that make Colorado so special.

Inlet Bay Campground is part of the larger Horsetooth Reservoir complex, a 6.5-mile long body of water surrounded by 2,000 acres of public land. It's a popular choice for locals, celebrated for its direct water access and the convenience it offers. Whether you're a seasoned boater who loves the ease of parking your vessel right at your campsite, or a family seeking a lively spot for swimming and outdoor fun, Inlet Bay delivers. Its well-maintained facilities and dedicated camp hosts ensure a pleasant and memorable stay, encouraging repeat visits year after year.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Inlet Bay Campground, highlighting its prime location and accessibility, the diverse services it offers, and the standout features that make it a top choice for Colorado residents. We'll also cover essential contact information, helping you plan your next lakeside adventure with ease. Get ready to discover your new favorite Front Range getaway at Horsetooth Reservoir!

Location and Accessibility

Inlet Bay Campground is situated at 4133 Shoreline Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA. This highly accessible location places it on the western side of Fort Collins, in Larimer County, making it a convenient destination for residents of the Northern Front Range and beyond. The campground is nestled at an elevation of 5,430 feet, offering high plains views blended with the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Access to Inlet Bay Campground is straightforward via well-maintained roads. From Fort Collins, you can simply head west on County Road 38E (Harmony Road), which directly leads to the Horsetooth Reservoir area. The campground itself is located between two loops, with a marina easily accessible. Despite being close to Fort Collins, the natural setting provides a genuine escape.

The campground is part of the Horsetooth Reservoir County Park, which requires a vehicle entrance permit in addition to camping fees. These permits can be purchased online with a camping reservation, or at gatehouses (seasonally), self-service pay stations, or park offices. For campers who pre-purchase their permits, direct access to the campsite is possible, bypassing the entrance gates – a useful tip for locals familiar with the park system. The reservoir itself is open year-round, though some campground amenities and water levels may vary seasonally. Current water levels can fluctuate; while sometimes low, at other times, they can be high enough for direct boat access from campsites, enhancing the waterfront experience significantly.

Services Offered

Inlet Bay Campground, managed by Larimer County Parks & Open Lands, offers a solid array of services designed for comfort and convenience, catering to both tent campers and RVers:

• Diverse Campsites: The campground provides a mix of tent-friendly sites and RV sites. Many sites offer electric hookups (30 and 50 amp), with some offering full hookups (water, electric, sewer), particularly at Horsetooth Reservoir. Other sites may be standard non-electric. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings/grills.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved up to 180 days in advance via Larimer County's online reservation system or by phone, which is highly recommended, especially during peak season (May-September). Some sites may be available for same-day, walk-in reservations at park offices.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean vault toilets are located throughout the campground. Additionally, flush toilets and paid showers (token operated, bring dollar bills for tokens) are available at the boat inspection station and at the Inlet Bay shower house, providing a welcome convenience. Shower houses are typically closed during winter months (November-April).
• Potable Water: Potable drinking water spigots are accessible throughout the campground, ensuring campers have easy access to fresh water.
• RV Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available at Inlet Bay, though it is closed during the off-season (tentatively mid-October to April). As of summer 2024, a $15 fee applies for dump station use, payable at an electronic kiosk.
• Camp Host & Ranger Station: Camp hosts are often on site to assist visitors, and a ranger station nearby provides information and support.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground but must be kept on a leash (no more than 10 feet long) at all times and are not allowed on swim beaches. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
• Free Wi-Fi: Good Wi-Fi connectivity is available, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.
• Firewood: While campfires are allowed in approved fire rings, gathering firewood in Larimer County parks is prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests.

Features / Highlights

Inlet Bay Campground distinguishes itself with several key features that enhance the camping experience, particularly for those seeking water-based recreation:

• Prime Lakeside Location: Many campsites offer "stunning waterfront views" or are a "short and easy walk down" to Horsetooth Reservoir. This direct access to the water is a major draw for boating, fishing, and swimming.
• Boating Enthusiast's Dream: With the ability to "park the boat right at the campsite and use it at ease whenever we want," Inlet Bay is exceptionally convenient for boat owners. A nearby marina and boat launch ramps make it easy to get on the water for activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, and simply cruising.
• Excellent Fishing: Horsetooth Reservoir is renowned for its fishing, with opportunities to catch trout, bass (smallmouth and largemouth), walleye, crappie, and wiper. A valid Colorado fishing license is required.
• Paddle Sports Heaven: The calm waters of the reservoir are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing, offering a peaceful way to explore the shoreline.
• Abundant Wildlife: Reviewers consistently mention seeing "lots of ducks, deer and other enjoyable wildlife," enhancing the natural ambiance of the campground. The surrounding open spaces also provide opportunities to spot various bird species and other animals.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Beyond the water, the Horsetooth Reservoir area features numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, including connections to popular spots like Horsetooth Rock Trail and the extensive Foothills Trail system.
• Scenic Beauty: The campground's setting in the foothills west of Fort Collins provides beautiful views, especially during sunrise and sunset, and offers a refreshing escape with cooler evenings, even in summer.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a variety of activities and generally well-spaced sites, it's a popular choice for families looking for an outdoor adventure.

Contact Information

Inlet Bay Campground is managed by Larimer County Department of Natural Resources. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations, fees, park conditions, and regulations, it's best to contact them directly.

Address: 4133 Shoreline Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA (This is the physical address for navigation.)

General Larimer County Natural Resources Contact:

Phone: (970) 619-4570 (This is a general information line for Larimer County Natural Resources, often used for park-specific updates, fire restrictions, and amenities like dump stations/showers).

Horsetooth Area Information Center:

Phone: (970) 498-5610 (Open seasonally, provides info on recreation, trails, camping, boating, and more for Horsetooth Reservoir).

Reservations:

Online: www.larimercamping.com (Larimer County's official reservation portal)

Phone: 1-800-397-7795 (Reservation call center)

Inlet Bay Marina (for boat rentals, supplies, etc.):

Phone: (970) 223-0140

Website: www.inletbaymarina.com

Official Larimer County Natural Resources Website: www.larimer.gov/naturalresources/parks/horsetooth-reservoir

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Inlet Bay Campground at Horsetooth Reservoir is an exceptional choice for Colorado locals, perfectly blending accessibility with a wealth of recreational opportunities right on Fort Collins' doorstep. For many Coloradans, who value convenience without sacrificing the outdoor experience, Inlet Bay offers an ideal solution. Its location allows for quick weekend trips or even mid-week escapes without requiring extensive travel, making it a highly practical option for busy schedules.

The true suitability for locals stems from its direct and unparalleled access to Horsetooth Reservoir. For the significant number of Colorado residents who own boats, kayaks, or paddleboards, the ability to "park the boat right at the campsite" is a game-changer, eliminating logistical hurdles and maximizing water time. Whether it's morning fishing, an afternoon of water skiing, or a tranquil evening paddle, the reservoir provides endless possibilities. This immediate immersion in water activities is a huge draw for those seeking to cool off and play during Colorado's warm summers.

Beyond the water, the surrounding public lands offer a network of trails for hiking and mountain biking, catering to another popular local pastime. The balance of modern amenities, like electric hookups and clean restrooms/showers, with the natural beauty of the reservoir and its abundant wildlife, creates a comfortable yet authentic camping experience. While additional daily fees for vehicles and trailers are part of the Larimer County Parks system, locals often find the value in the well-maintained facilities and diverse recreational offerings to be well worth it.

Inlet Bay fosters a vibrant, community-like atmosphere, where fellow campers are often just as enthusiastic about outdoor pursuits. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, friends can gather for adventure, and individuals can simply relax by the water. For any Coloradan seeking a dynamic, amenity-rich lakeside camping experience that captures the essence of the state's outdoor lifestyle, Inlet Bay Campground is undoubtedly a premier destination.

Inlet Bay Campground

4133 Shoreline Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526, USA