Lathrop State Park has a little of everything
We have visited this park several times, in the summer, spring and fall. The campground provides a nice visitors center, two small lakes (one non-wake), a sand beach, paved and unpaved bike trails, fishing, a kids fishing pond, trails, and electric or no-hook-up camping. The campground is divided into three loops with each loop containing flush toilets and shower facilities. A tent-only campground is situated closer to the highway, while the three loops are far from the road and provide ample star-gazing experiences. Favorite spots include 102 (has a great view of the Spanish Peaks), and site 84 (private pull-through with junipers and other short trees to block the road/other campers). I have attended several ranger programs here and hiked on all trails. Playing on the beach and picnicking is enhanced by the water stations to wash off the sand, benches, picnic tables, and shade trees. Kayaking on the no-wake lake is peaceful and fishing is abundant. Bike riding is simple and mostly flat. A fully paved trail circles the lake and is accessible by the campgrounds. A public, 9-hole golf course sits directly next to the park. The course is inexpensive and fun for an afternoon or morning. If you've exhausted all your options at the park itself, head one hour away to the Great Sand Dunes National Park to "surf" on the dunes and learn about this beautiful area. This park truly has a little of everything and while it is one of the oldest state parks in Colorado, it is well-maintained and enjoyable year-round.