If you’re planning another lake day in your near future, consider visiting Lost Lake in Paonia for a day of fun in and along the water. Tucked away in the Ruby Mountain Range, this recreation area is known to have jaw-dropping views of the vistas, and the beautiful regional wildflowers that bloom towards the end of July through early August.
The site has three lakes: Lost Lake, Dollar Lake, and Lake Slough.
Boating & Fishing
At the Lost Lakes, there is a fishing platform available for day use situated on the north side of Lake Slough. Each summer, the lake is stocked about once or twice with rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout. Many anglers have a lot of success catching fish here, making this a pretty popular area to drop a line in.
Dollar Lake is managed as a wild trout fishery, so this is another spot at the Lost Lakes that can provide a fun fishing day. It should be mentioned that no motorized boats are allowed on any of the lakes.
Camping
Camping at Lost Lakes is by far the most trendy activity to do in this area. There are 18 tent camping campsites, 18 RV campsites, and five horse-accessible campsites with room for trailers that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Potable pressurized water is on-site, as well as three vaulted bathrooms, trash service, and pets are allowed as long as they’re leashed.
The campground is open from about mid-June to September, and the maximum stay is 14 days.
Picnicking
Lost Lakes has a picnic area available for daytrippers who are not camping in the area. Eat a homemade lunch outdoors in the fresh air for a nice change of pace.
Find additional activities within the surrounding Gunnison National Forest.
Trails
Lost Lakes has some great places to get a hike in that are suitable for adults and kids of all ages. One of the most popular hiking paths is the Three Lakes Trail, a heavily trafficked 3.4-mile loop that has excellent views of waterfalls, wildflowers, and all three lakes.
Another is the Beckwith Path, a 6.4-mile out-and-back easy day trail. This path also has terrific views of wildflowers, East Beckwith, and the Ruby Mountains. This recreation area is also a great spot to bring your bike and there’s a horseback riding area just past the horse camping facility.
Details
Address: County Rd 706, Paonia, CO 81428
Phone: 970-527-4131
Season: Summer
Restrictions: RVs are limited to a spur length of 28’ | Maximum camp stay is 14 days
Website: fs.usda.gov/r02/gmug/recreation/lost-lake-campground-paonia-rd