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Horsetooth Reservoir

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Located in the foothills west of Fort Collins at an elevation of 5,430 feet, Horsetooth Reservoir is 1,900 acres of water surrounded by 2,000 acres of public land. It is popular for fishing, boating, water-skiing, and camping. This 6.5-mile reservoir is open year round and is a part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project operated by the Bureau of Reclamation and the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District. The purpose of this water project is to divert water from the west slope to the east slope for drinking water, irrigation, and hydropower generation. The Bureau of Reclamation is solely responsible for power generation. The agencies jointly manage water levels for irrigation, municipal, and industry use.

Recreation is managed by Larimer County Natural Resources. Park Entrance Permits and Camping Fees are required.

General Regulations

For specifics, ask a ranger for a copy of the Regulations Brochure.
  • Life preservers of the appropriate sizing are required for each person on a boat, and must be worn by children at all times. In addition, a Type IV throwable PFD is required on boats longer than 16 feet.
  • Boat travel direction - counter clockwise.
  • An observer (in addition to the driver) must be on the boat during water-skiing activity.
  • Swimming is prohibited except at the swim beach in South Bay. Days & hours of operation may vary. Call 970-679-4570 for current hours.
  • Cliff diving or jumping in the water is extremely dangerous and prohibited in all areas.
  • Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
  • Collection of firewood, including cutting of trees and branches, is not allowed.
  • Firearms or fireworks are prohibited.
  • Glass containers are not allowed.
  • Public consumption of alcohol above 3.2% is prohibited (no kegs allowed).
  • Dogs must be on leashes not longer than 10 feet at all times. Dogs are not allowed at the swim beach.
  • Due to Homeland Security restrictions, no recreation activity is allowed on dams or within 100 feet of dams when on land.

Concessionaires

Boating

Camping

Park Entrance Permits

Fishing

Water Levels

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