Prospect Lake is the centerpiece of Memorial Park in Colorado Springs, a 25-acre urban lake that packs more recreational variety into one location than almost any other body of water along the Front Range. With Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains forming the backdrop, this lake delivers fishing, swimming, boating, paddleboarding, and shoreline walking all within a city park that families have relied on for generations.
Fishing at Prospect Lake draws anglers year-round thanks to a solid population of bass, catfish, trout, and panfish. The City of Colorado Springs manages the fishery and requires a permit for all fishing activity. Shore fishing is accessible from multiple points along the 1.25-mile paved trail that circles the lake, and the open water gives kayak and canoe anglers room to work deeper structure. Prospect Lake is one of the few urban lakes in Colorado where you can target multiple species without leaving the city limits.
Swimming is available at the Beach House swim area on designated days, typically Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays during summer months. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk. The city has invested in renovating the Beach House facility and adding sand to improve the beach experience. Water quality is monitored, though occasional blue-green algae advisories can temporarily close swimming access, so checking current conditions before your visit is a smart move.
Boating options are unusually broad for a city lake. Motorized and non-motorized watercraft are both permitted on separate designated days. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and sailboats share the water on non-motorized days, while water skiing and jet skiing are allowed on motorized days. SUP Colorado Springs operates rentals from the boathouse for visitors who do not have their own gear. All watercraft require a permit from the city.
The paved loop trail around Prospect Lake is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Fitness stations are spaced along the route for interval training. Memorial Park surrounds the lake with playgrounds on both sides, basketball courts, pavilions with barbecue grills, sand volleyball, and open green space. Parking is generally ample, and the park hosts community events throughout the year.
Wildlife viewing is a bonus at Prospect Lake. Great blue herons, bald eagles, falcons, and resident flocks of ducks and geese are regularly spotted along the shoreline. Deer occasionally pass through the park as well. Whether you are casting a line at dawn, paddling across calm water in the evening, or walking the loop with your family on a Saturday afternoon, Prospect Lake is one of Colorado Springs' most complete outdoor destinations.