Sapphire Lake

Sapphire Lake is a small, pristine fishing lake located within Farish Recreation Area in El Paso County, a military recreation facility nestled in the forested foothills west of Colorado Springs. The lake is one of several on the Farish property and has earned a perfect 5.0-star rating from visitors who describe it as a peaceful, well-maintained retreat ideal for families and beginning anglers.

The calm, sheltered waters of Sapphire Lake make it a top choice for introducing children to fishing. Reviewers highlight the lake as a place where kids can experience the quiet joy of casting a line without the pressure of crowded public waters. Families frequently pack picnic lunches and spend the day rotating between Sapphire Lake and the two other lakes on the Farish grounds, making it easy to fill an entire afternoon outdoors.

Farish Recreation Area is operated by the United States Air Force Academy and access is limited to active-duty military personnel, retirees, Department of Defense civilians, and their guests. This restricted access keeps the area uncrowded and exceptionally well-maintained. Visitors consistently note the quality of the grounds, the clean facilities, and the overall sense of calm that comes with a low-traffic recreation area.

The surrounding landscape features dense Ponderosa pine forest at moderate elevation along the Rampart Range. Hiking trails wind through the property, and wildlife sightings — including deer, wild turkeys, and various songbirds — are common. The area also offers camping and cabin rentals for those who want to extend their stay beyond a single day.

For military-connected families in the Colorado Springs area, Sapphire Lake and the broader Farish Recreation Area represent one of the best-kept outdoor recreation secrets in El Paso County. The combination of stocked fishing, forested scenery, and family-friendly amenities creates a weekend destination that visitors return to year after year.