What St. Vrain State Park offers and how to get there

St. Vrain State Park sits along the St. Vrain Creek northeast of Longmont, about 30 miles north of Denver. The park spans roughly 1,600 acres and centers on two reservoirs — Hanson and Inlet — plus access to the creek itself. You can fish for walleye, pike, and catfish in the reservoirs, or pursue trout in the creek. The park also has camping, picnic areas, and trails, making it a multi-purpose destination rather than a fishing-only stop.

To reach the park, take Interstate 25 north from Denver toward Fort Collins, then exit toward Longmont. From Longmont, head northeast on Colorado 66 toward Lyons. The park entrance is well-marked on the way. There is a day-use fee and a separate camping fee if you stay overnight. The park is open year-round, though water levels and fishing conditions shift with the seasons.

Key Takeaways

  • Hanson Reservoir and Inlet Reservoir hold walleye, pike, and catfish; the creek below holds trout, especially in spring and fall.
  • Day-use parking costs a small fee; camping sites are available but fill quickly on weekends during summer.
  • Boat ramps exist at both reservoirs, and you can fish from shore or wade the creek in designated areas.
  • Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages the park and enforces fishing regulations, including daily catch limits that vary by species.
  • The park sits at roughly 5,000 feet elevation and can be muddy or icy depending on season and recent weather.

Fishing the reservoirs for walleye and pike

Hanson Reservoir and Inlet Reservoir are the main draw for anglers targeting walleye and pike. Walleye fishing is strongest in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October), when cooler water temperatures push them into shallower areas. Early morning and evening are your best windows. Live bait — shiners, minnows, or crawfish — works well, as do jigs tipped with soft plastics or live bait.

Pike are present year-round but most active in spring and again in late fall. They respond to larger lures, spinnerbaits, and swimbaits. Both reservoirs have boat ramps, so launching a small motorboat or canoe gives you access to deeper water and structure. Shore fishing is also possible, particularly along the dam areas and inlet channels where fish concentrate.

Catfish are abundant in both reservoirs and bite throughout the summer. They are less selective than walleye or pike and will take cut bait, chicken liver, or prepared stink baits. Night fishing for catfish is popular and often productive. Check current Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations for daily catch limits, which can change year to year.

Creek fishing for trout

The St. Vrain Creek below the reservoirs holds rainbow and brown trout. The creek is smaller and colder than the reservoirs, and trout fishing here is more technical than reservoir fishing. Spring runoff (typically April through June) makes the creek high and turbid, which can be challenging. Fall (September through November) offers clearer water and more stable flows, making it the preferred season for many anglers.

Fly fishing is popular on the creek, with small nymphs, dry flies, and streamers all producing fish. Spin anglers do well with small spinners, spoons, and inline weights to keep bait near the bottom. The creek has public access at several points within the park, but always check signage to confirm where you can fish. Wading is possible in many sections, though water temperature and flow vary.

Camping and facilities at the park

St. Vrain State Park has two campgrounds: Hanson Campground and Inlet Campground. Hanson has roughly 40 sites with water and electric hookups; Inlet has about 30 sites, many without hookups. Both fill quickly on summer weekends, especially Friday through Sunday. Reservations are managed through Colorado Parks and Wildlife and can be made in advance online or by phone.

Each campground has restrooms, drinking water, and picnic tables. There is no dump station at the park, so plan accordingly if you have an RV. Day-use areas include parking, picnic tables, and grills. The park has no on-site lodging beyond camping, and the nearest town with hotels is Longmont, about 20 minutes away.

Regulations, seasons, and what to bring

Colorado Parks and Wildlife sets all fishing regulations for St. Vrain State Park. You must have a valid Colorado fishing license, which you can purchase online, by phone, or at sporting goods stores. Daily catch limits, minimum sizes, and gear restrictions vary by species and change periodically, so check the current regulations before you go. The park's website and the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website both list current rules.

The park is open year-round, but conditions change dramatically. Winter (December through February) can bring snow and ice, making access difficult; call ahead if you plan a winter trip. Spring runoff raises water levels and can make wading unsafe. Summer is the busiest season and offers the most stable conditions, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Fall offers excellent fishing and fewer crowds.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and layers — weather at 5,000 feet can shift quickly. If you plan to wade, bring waders and felt-soled boots for traction on slippery creek rocks. Bring your own drinking water beyond what the campground provides. Insect repellent is useful in summer, especially near the creek. The park has no bait or tackle shop, so bring what you need or stop in Longmont beforehand.

Boat access and water conditions

Both Hanson and Inlet reservoirs have boat ramps suitable for small motorboats, canoes, and kayaks. Motorboat speed limits apply — check the park rules before launching. The ramps are maintained year-round, but winter ice can close them temporarily. Water levels fluctuate with irrigation demand and snowmelt; summer levels are typically lower than spring levels. Call the park office before a trip if you are concerned about water depth or ramp conditions.

The reservoirs are relatively shallow, so a depth finder or local knowledge helps you locate deeper holes where walleye and pike hold. Shore fishing is productive along the dam faces and where creeks enter the reservoirs. Life jackets are required for anyone in a boat, and Colorado boating regulations apply.

Nearby alternatives and day-trip options

If St. Vrain does not meet your needs, several other water bodies are within an hour's drive. Barker Reservoir, also managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, is about 15 minutes north and holds similar species. The South Platte River near Deckers offers excellent trout fishing but requires more technical skill and has stricter regulations. Horsetooth Reservoir west of Fort Collins is larger and holds walleye, pike, and catfish in greater numbers, though it draws more crowds.

The town of Lyons, just west of the park, has a few small restaurants and shops. Longmont offers full services — gas, groceries, tackle shops, and restaurants. If you want to combine fishing with hiking, the park has several short trails, and the nearby Indian Peaks Wilderness offers backcountry options for a longer trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish at St. Vrain State Park?

No. Both reservoirs allow shore fishing, and the creek has public access for wading. A boat gives you access to deeper water and more structure, but many anglers catch fish from shore, especially around the dam areas and inlets.

What is the best time of year to fish here?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are most productive for walleye and pike. Summer is best for catfish. Creek trout fishing is best in fall when water is clear and flows are stable. Winter is possible but conditions are unpredictable.

Can I camp year-round at St. Vrain?

Yes, the park is open year-round, but winter weather can make access difficult. Campgrounds operate year-round, though some sites may be closed during heavy snow. Call ahead in winter to confirm conditions and availability.

What size fish can I keep?

Minimum sizes and daily limits vary by species and change periodically. Check the current Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations before you fish. Walleye, pike, and catfish each have different rules.

Is there cell service at the park?

Cell service is spotty in parts of the park, especially near the water. Do not rely on your phone for emergencies. The campground office has a phone, and the nearest hospital is in Longmont.