Boyd Lake State Park

We were at Boyd Lake for only one night, but it was clear that this park is well loved by many who enjoy boating and the trails that weave their way through Ft. Collins and to this park. We arrived in the afternoon and were greeted by a line of trucks towing boats and campers. We wanted to get inside this park as soon as possible to set up, but we needed a map. We waited in line and the friendly attendant was happy to provide the information we needed. There are more than 100 sites at this campground which are distributed across a few camping loops. We were in site 126, an end site near the trail along the lake.

Boyd Lake Site 126.

The sites are closer to each other than I usually prefer, but the camper next to us did not arrive. It felt like we had a large area to ourselves. Some loops have several, large trees providing shade while other campsites have relatively small trees. This particular campsite had only a couple small trees, but evening shade was provided in our site from large cottonwood trees in further west sites.

One of several green spaces between campground loops. This one has horseshoe pits, but others have playgrounds or other lawn games. Each loop has bathrooms and most have showers.

Large lawns with varying lawn games and smaller playgrounds are between each spur. Trails to the lake cut through high weeds and make for a quick walk directly to the water’s edge.

Boyd Lake.

It was simple to set up camp on this very level site. The sites here are electric only, but a dump station and water is easily accessible. Ft. Collins has an amazing bike path and this particular loop was right next to the bike trail. The lake is surrounded by trees, providing areas to fish in the shade. Large picnic areas are also available near the swim beach.

Boyd Lake swim beach was closed on our travels here, but it is large and could accommodate several people.

A new playground was recently installed when we visited. The ship theme provided unlimited entertainment for numerous children at once.

Newly installed playground next to the swim beach and large picnic area.

A large, rentable picnic pavilion and group site rounded out the campground. We enjoyed our stay, walking along the lake trail.

A picnic area near the swim beach.

The campground was quiet in the evening and campsites, though loaded with boats and tubes, were generally clean. If traveling here, I would again get a spot on the end of the spur to ensure the possibility for maximum quiet.

Moonrise over Boyd Lake from campsite 126.

I also imagine that this is not as busy during fall or early spring. This would also be a good time to visit, even if the main attraction is the lake.

Several trails lead to the water from the paved bike trail that meanders through the park.
Dirt trails lead from the end of each spur to the bike trail and lake.

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