Henderson Lake lies deep in the San Juan Mountains of La Plata County, tucked into a wooded basin surrounded by dense forest and rugged alpine terrain. This small, secluded mountain lake offers the kind of quiet, unplugged outdoor experience that draws visitors who want to leave crowds behind. With free dispersed camping, solid trout fishing, and access to hiking and winter snowmobile trails, Henderson Lake rewards those willing to make the drive into the backcountry.
Fishing at Henderson Lake is the primary reason many visitors make the trip, and the lake has a reputation for producing large trout. Anglers describe catching some of the biggest trout they have ever landed here, suggesting a healthy and relatively under-pressured fishery. The deep, wooded lake holds cold water that sustains trout year-round, and the compact size concentrates fish in productive casting range from shore. Bring standard trout gear, flies, spinners, or bait, and work the deeper sections near fallen timber and shaded banks. A valid Colorado fishing license is required.
Camping at Henderson Lake is free and dispersed, with several established spots scattered around the lake area. There are no formal campground facilities like hookups, maintained restrooms, or designated pads, so come prepared with self-contained gear. The trade-off is genuine solitude; visitors consistently describe the area as uncrowded, peaceful, and ideal for unwinding. This is a leave-no-trace environment, so pack out everything you bring in.
Hiking around Henderson Lake follows forest trails through the surrounding San Juan backcountry, with terrain that ranges from gentle lakeside walking to steeper mountain routes. The scenery is consistently described as beautiful, with deep woods, mountain views, and the quiet of a truly remote setting. Kayaking is also an option on the lake, though you will need to carry your own boat in given the lack of a formal launch.
Winter transforms Henderson Lake into a snowmobile destination. The San Juan Sledders groom trails that run all the way to the lake, making it an accessible and popular winter ride. Snowmobilers use the area as both a destination and a waypoint on longer backcountry routes through the San Juan Mountains. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also viable when conditions allow.
Henderson Lake sits at high elevation in La Plata County, with Durango as the nearest full-service town roughly 20 to 30 miles to the south. Access roads are unpaved and may require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles depending on conditions and season. Winter access is primarily via snowmobile on groomed trails. There is no cell service at the lake, so plan your trip and communicate your itinerary before heading in. For visitors seeking a genuine backcountry lake experience in the San Juans with trophy trout potential, free camping, and real solitude, Henderson Lake is a standout choice.