Loop C

For Coloradans seeking a diverse and accessible outdoor experience that combines stunning natural beauty with modern conveniences, "Loop C" within Lathrop State Park in Walsenburg stands out as an excellent choice. As Colorado's very first state park, Lathrop offers a rich blend of recreational activities, from tranquil lake experiences to captivating mountain views, all within a well-maintained and welcoming environment. Loop C, specifically, provides a comfortable and strategic base camp from which to explore all that this southern Colorado gem has to offer.

Lathrop State Park is a true testament to Colorado's commitment to outdoor recreation. Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Spanish Peaks, it boasts a unique high-plains landscape punctuated by two beautiful lakes, Martin Lake and Horseshoe Lake. The campground's various loops, including Loop C, are designed to accommodate a wide range of campers, from those in large RVs needing electric hookups to traditional tent campers seeking a peaceful night under the stars. The park's amenities ensure a comfortable stay, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying the scenic vistas and myriad activities.

While the simple name "Loop C" might suggest just one section of a larger campground, it represents a well-established and appreciated part of Lathrop State Park's overall offering. Visitors consistently praise the park's clean facilities, the beauty of its surroundings, and the abundance of opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and even golfing. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, and individuals can find solace in the expansive Colorado landscape.

This article will provide an in-depth look at Loop C within Lathrop State Park, detailing its precise location and accessibility, the range of services it offers, its standout features and highlights, and essential contact information. We'll conclude by explaining why this campground is particularly well-suited for Colorado locals, offering a convenient and enriching outdoor escape year-round.

Loop C is located within Lathrop State Park, with the general park address being 70 County Road 502, Walsenburg, CO 81089, USA. This places the campground just three miles west of Walsenburg, a historic town situated along Interstate 25 in southern Colorado.

The accessibility of Lathrop State Park and its campgrounds, including Loop C, is excellent for Coloradans traveling from various parts of the state. It's conveniently located just off major highways, making it an easy drive from cities like Pueblo (about 40 minutes), Colorado Springs (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes), and even Denver (around 2 hours 15 minutes). The paved roads within the park lead directly to the campground loops, ensuring smooth access for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trailers.

Once within Lathrop State Park, Loop C is clearly signed and part of the Piñon Campground, one of the park's two primary camping areas. Its setting offers picturesque views, particularly of the iconic Spanish Peaks to the west. The layout of the loop is designed to provide relatively good spacing between sites, contributing to a sense of privacy amidst the natural piñon-juniper woodland. This combination of easy highway access and a beautiful, well-laid-out interior makes Loop C a highly convenient and attractive option for a Colorado camping trip.

Loop C, as part of the Piñon Campground at Lathrop State Park, offers a comprehensive range of services designed for comfortable camping:

• Electric Hookups: Many sites within Loop C are "improved sites" offering 20/30/50 amp electrical hookups, catering to a wide variety of RVs and trailers. While water and sewer hookups are typically not at each individual site in Piñon Campground, shared water spigots are available, and a central dump station is conveniently located within the park.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite in Loop C comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, providing essential amenities for outdoor dining and campfires (always check for current fire bans and restrictions).

• Modern Restrooms and Hot Showers: Loop C offers access to clean, modern restroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers. This is a highly valued amenity, especially after a day of outdoor activities.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available through shared spigots located within the campground loop.

• Sanitation/Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available within Lathrop State Park for RV and trailer waste disposal.

• Paved Sites and Roads: The sites in Piñon Campground (including Loop C) are paved, and the internal roads are also paved, ensuring easy maneuverability for vehicles and RVs.

• Visitor Center: The park features a visitor center that offers information about the local area, exhibits, and often has staff available to answer questions.

• ADA Accessible Sites: Lathrop State Park offers ADA-accessible camping sites, ensuring accessibility for visitors with disabilities.

• Pets Welcome: Pets are permitted in the campgrounds but must be kept on a maximum six-foot leash at all times and not left unattended. Owners are required to clean up after their pets.

• Spectacular Spanish Peaks Views: One of the most prominent features of camping in Loop C at Lathrop State Park is the breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Spanish Peaks. These iconic mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to your camping experience.

• Access to Two Lakes: Lathrop State Park uniquely offers two lakes, Martin Lake (allowing motorboats and waterskiing) and Horseshoe Lake (a peaceful, no-wake lake). This provides diverse water recreation opportunities right at your doorstep, from fishing to canoeing, kayaking, and swimming at the designated beach area.

• Colorado's First State Park: Campers can enjoy the historical significance of staying at Colorado's inaugural state park, adding a unique dimension to their visit.

• On-Site Golf Course: Lathrop State Park is the only Colorado State Park that adjoins a golf course (the 9-hole Walsenburg Golf Course), offering a unique recreational amenity for golf enthusiasts.

• Extensive Trail System: The park features several miles of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding, allowing for extensive exploration of the surrounding natural beauty.

• Abundant Wildlife and Birdwatching: The diverse ecosystems within the park support various wildlife, including deer and numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

• Year-Round Camping: Lathrop State Park offers camping opportunities throughout the year, allowing locals to enjoy its beauty in all four seasons, with some amenities adjusted during winter.

• Quiet and Well-Spaced Sites: Reviewers often note that the campsites are a good size and offer a sense of privacy, contributing to a peaceful camping experience, especially during off-peak times.

For reservations, inquiries about specific site availability in Loop C, current park conditions, or any other questions regarding Lathrop State Park, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 70 County Road 502, Walsenburg, CO 81089, USA

Phone: (719) 738-2376

Email: lathrop.park@state.co.us

Park Office/Visitor Center Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (It's always advisable to verify current hours before your visit.)

Daily Vehicle Pass: $10 (or free with a valid annual Colorado State Parks pass or Keep Colorado Wild Pass).

Reservations for campsites at Lathrop State Park, including Loop C, are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (summer and holidays). Reservations can be made up to six months in advance online through the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website (cpwshop.com) or by phone at 1-800-244-5613. Always check the official Colorado Parks & Wildlife website for the most up-to-date information on park rules, fees, fire bans, and specific site details.

Loop C at Lathrop State Park is an exceptionally suitable and appealing camping destination for Colorado locals, embodying much of what makes outdoor recreation in the Centennial State so cherished. For residents across Colorado, particularly those in the southern and central regions, Lathrop offers a convenient, amenity-rich, and visually spectacular escape without the long drives to more remote mountain areas.

Its accessibility from major highways makes it a practical choice for weekend getaways, allowing Coloradans to maximize their time enjoying the outdoors rather than on the road. The availability of electric hookups in Loop C is a significant advantage for RV owners, ensuring a comfortable stay with all the necessary conveniences. The presence of clean, modern restrooms and hot showers further enhances the camping experience, making it appealing to those who appreciate a touch of comfort amidst their outdoor adventures.

Beyond the practicalities, Lathrop State Park provides a quintessential Colorado experience. The majestic views of the Spanish Peaks from Loop C are a constant reminder of the state's stunning topography. The dual lakes – one for quiet paddling and fishing, the other for waterskiing and power boating – cater to a wide array of interests, allowing local families to enjoy diverse water activities without leaving the park. The on-site golf course adds a unique recreational dimension not commonly found in state park campgrounds, appealing to a broader range of local enthusiasts.

Whether it's the history of camping at Colorado's first state park, the opportunity for year-round outdoor activities, or simply the chance to relax amidst beautiful scenery, Loop C at Lathrop State Park offers a well-rounded and deeply satisfying camping experience. It's a place where Colorado locals can easily connect with nature, engage in their favorite outdoor pursuits, and create lasting memories, all within the familiar and beloved landscapes of their home state.

Loop C

Colorado 81089, USA