Eggleston Lake is the second largest lake on the Grand Mesa in Delta County, Colorado, and a centerpiece of one of the most popular recreation areas on this massive flat-top mountain. Reached via Forest Road 121 about 2.5 miles past Baron Lake, Eggleston sits at the heart of a cluster of alpine lakes that draw anglers, paddlers, and campers from across western Colorado. With a 4.6-star rating from visitors, it earns its reputation as a favorite fishing and camping destination on the mesa.
Fishing is the primary attraction at Eggleston Lake, and the lake holds a healthy population of rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. Trolling from a boat is a productive method on this large body of water, though shore fishing also produces results, especially in the early morning and evening hours. Fly anglers find success with small nymphs and dry flies during summer hatches. The lake has seen fishing regulation changes over the years, with limits periodically adjusted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to manage the fishery. Summer is peak season, with water temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees creating ideal conditions, though spring and fall also produce good fishing for those willing to brave cooler weather.
A gravel boat ramp provides access for small watercraft, making Eggleston one of the better-equipped lakes on the Grand Mesa for boating. Kayakers and canoeists enjoy the lake's size, with enough open water for multi-hour paddles through stunning alpine scenery. The surrounding landscape of spruce, fir, and aspen forests creates a dramatic backdrop, particularly in September when the aspens turn gold.
Three Forest Service campgrounds ring Eggleston Lake, giving visitors plenty of options for overnight stays. Crag Crest campground doubles as the trailhead parking area for the popular Crag Crest National Recreation Trail, one of the premier hikes on the Grand Mesa. Fish Hawk campground sits to the north along Forest Road 121, and the Eggleston Lake campground is positioned along the far side of the road midway up the lake. Kiser Creek campground lies at the south end, near where Kiser Creek begins its flow toward Reed and Kiser Slough reservoirs.
Seasonal timing is important when planning a visit. The Grand Mesa road system typically opens in late June after snowmelt, and peak conditions run through September. Water levels can vary with snowpack, and late-season visitors have noted lower water in drier years. Winter brings ice fishing opportunities for those prepared to access the lake by snowmobile or snowshoes. The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway (Highway 65) provides the main route from Cedaredge, about 16 miles to the south.