Prince Lake Number One sits within the Boulder Reservoir complex in Boulder County, Colorado, serving as a managed recreation area near the city of Boulder. With a 4.1-star average across hundreds of reviews, this lake draws families, paddlers, and picnickers who want a close-to-town water destination with supervised swim areas, boat access, and open green space for gatherings.
Swimming is available at Prince Lake Number One within a designated beach area staffed by lifeguards. The sand beach is a central feature, with visitors describing it as clean, safe for kids, and equipped with nearby restrooms and a volleyball court. Reservable beach-view shelters make the spot popular for group events, weddings, and family reunions. A snack bar operates on-site during peak season, and grilling at picnic areas is a favorite activity among regulars who recommend bringing food for a full cookout day.
Paddleboarding and kayaking are the primary on-water activities, though access comes with notable cost and permit requirements. Bringing a personal paddleboard or inflatable watercraft requires purchasing a seasonal permit priced around seventy dollars, on top of the per-person entry fee of roughly twelve dollars. Rentals for kayaks and paddleboards are available on-site for visitors who prefer to skip the permit process. Inflatables and rafts are not allowed in the water. Motorized boating is permitted, and water skiing has been spotted on the reservoir. The lap paddleboarding rental window is one hour, which reviewers note feels tight for the distance.
The surrounding area features a paved bike path that connects through the reservoir property, popular with cyclists and runners. Walking the perimeter trail offers views of the water and surrounding Front Range landscape, particularly scenic in autumn and on mild winter days when access hours shift to a 3 PM entry cutoff with 4 PM exit. Dogs are not permitted in the main recreation area during peak season, which frustrates some visitors. Geese are abundant around the shoreline, and multiple reviewers warn about goose droppings on grassy areas near the beach.
Entry fees apply year-round, and the park does not offer single-day permits for personal watercraft, only seasonal passes. Refund policies are strict, with no returns issued for weather closures. The facility closes access during lightning, which can cut visits short during Colorado's afternoon thunderstorm season. November through early spring brings reduced hours and closed buildings with no restroom access. Staff receive mixed reviews, with many praising their friendliness while others describe enforcement of watercraft rules as heavy-handed. Plan ahead, bring cash or card for entry, and check seasonal hours before visiting.