Established Camping
Big Thomson Campground at Carter Lake
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
**Carter Lake Camping:** Due to ongoing site improvements and road construction currently in progress, the following campgrounds are impacted: - **Eagle Campground:** Starting June 13, sites will be reservable on Friday and Saturday nights only, up to 30 days in advance. Reserve online or by calling 1-800-397-7795. - Important Advisory: If you have a larger camping unit (RV or trailer 26 or more feet in length), navigating the construction will be challenging. We recommend South Shore campground as an alternative to better accommodate your needs during construction. - **North Pines Campground:** Reservations can only be made a few weeks to a month out. Reserve online or by calling 1-800-397-7795. - **Big Thompson Campground:** Beginning April 1, the campground transitioned into day-use parking and does not offer camping. For questions, please call (970) 619-4570.
Big Thomson Campground at Carter Lake is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with some stunning views. You’ll find sites that offer easy access to the lake, perfect for kayaking and fishing, and many campers rave about the beautiful scenery surrounding the area.
The campground has a few key amenities that make it convenient for visitors. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site, allowing for cozy evenings under the stars. One camper mentioned, “We were on a hill right above the water, but it was an easy walk down to the water,” highlighting the easy access to the lake for some fun in the sun.
If you’re into wildlife, keep your eyes peeled; deer and wild turkeys have been spotted wandering through the campground. While some campers noted that the sites can feel a bit close together, the overall vibe is friendly and lively, making it a great place to connect with fellow campers.
For those looking to explore beyond the campground, you’re just a short drive from local attractions and amenities. Whether you’re here for a weekend fishing trip or a family getaway, Big Thomson Campground at Carter Lake has plenty to offer for a memorable outdoor experience.
Description
Larimer County, CO
Carter Lake
Carter Lake is located in the foothills west of Loveland at an elevation of 5,760 feet. It 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. Three miles long and about one mile wide, Carter Lake is a 1,100-acre reservoir surrounded by 1,000 acres of public lands and is popular for fishing, sailing, camping, swimming, scuba diving, rock climbing, and water skiing. It is open year round. Park Entrance Permits and Camping Fees are required.
Please check the Season Dates tab for annual updates on site availability.
Location
Big Thomson Campground at Carter Lake is located in Colorado
Directions
(Park address: 1800 S.C.R. 31; Loveland, CO 80537) Take I-25 to the Berthoud Exit (Exit 250). Turn left (west) onto Highway 56 and continue for 9 1/2 miles, passing through the town of Berthoud. At the foothills, the road will curve sharply to the right (north). Turn left (west) onto County Road 8E and continue for 3 miles to the entrance station where you can purchase permits.
Address
1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31
Loveland, CO 80537
Coordinates
40.31126104648491 N
105.22290130648612 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups