Lake Granby

Lake Granby is one of Colorado's largest bodies of water, stretching across 7,250 acres with over 40 miles of shoreline at 8,280 feet in Grand County. Part of the Colorado-Big Thompson water project, this massive reservoir sits just south of Rocky Mountain National Park and offers the full range of water-based recreation that smaller alpine lakes simply cannot match. Whether you are pulling a ski boat, launching a kayak, or casting for trophy lake trout, Granby delivers the space, the scenery, and the fish to make the drive worthwhile.

Fishing is world-class here. Lake Granby is regularly stocked with trout and kokanee salmon, and the lake holds rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout (mackinaw), and kokanee salmon that draw anglers from across the state. Some of Colorado's largest lake trout have come from these waters. Shore fishing is productive along several access points, and boat fishing opens up the reservoir's 221-foot depths where big fish hold. Winter ice fishing is popular when conditions allow, adding a year-round dimension that many Colorado lakes cannot offer.

Two marinas serve the lake. Indian Peaks Marina on the western shore and Beacon Landing Marina on the north side both offer pontoon boat rentals, and the lake sees regular traffic from sailboats, motorboats, kayaks, paddleboards, and personal watercraft. All boats must carry a Colorado Aquatic Nuisance Species stamp and pass a CPW inspection for invasive mussels before launching.

Camping options are extensive. Stillwater Campground on the north shore has 129 sites with some electric hookups. Arapaho Bay Campground on the eastern end provides 84 non-electric sites in a more secluded forest setting. Both campgrounds feature picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and direct access to the water. With Rocky Mountain National Park minutes away, campers at Lake Granby have an unmatched base for exploring the high country.

The town of Granby and the Grand Lake area provide restaurants, breweries, shops, and outfitters within a short drive. The lake is roughly two and a half hours from Denver, making it accessible for weekend trips while still feeling genuinely removed from the Front Range. Water levels fluctuate with irrigation demand, and the boat dock can shift considerably, so check current conditions before planning your launch. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, but mornings on Lake Granby, with calm water reflecting the surrounding peaks, are among the most peaceful moments you will find anywhere in Colorado.