Bellaire Lake

Bellaire Lake is a 10-acre mountain lake in the Red Feather Lakes area of Larimer County, Colorado, managed as a State Wildlife Area by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Sitting at 8,600 feet in the Roosevelt National Forest, this small but productive lake draws anglers, campers, and families looking for a peaceful mountain getaway about 47 miles northwest of Fort Collins. The lake is stocked annually with rainbow trout and cutthroat trout, and the surrounding campground provides one of the most convenient lakeside camping experiences in northern Colorado.

Fishing is the main attraction at Bellaire Lake. The shallow, 13-foot-deep lake warms enough in summer to produce consistent action for both spin and fly anglers. Rainbow trout and cutthroat trout make up the bulk of the catch, with creek chubs also present. Early mornings before the crowds arrive offer the best fishing, as the lake sees heavy use from families, dog walkers, and runners by midday. Osprey frequently hunt over the water, making for memorable wildlife viewing while you wait for a bite.

The Bellaire Lake Campground sits right on the shore and offers 26 well-spaced sites, including 21 family sites with electric hookups and 5 tent-only sites. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill. The campground provides both flush toilets and vault toilets, drinking water, and bear lockers at tent sites. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov, and sites fill quickly during summer weekends. The campground fee is $30 per night, with an $8 charge for additional vehicles.

A 1.25-mile trail circles the lake, connecting the campground to day-use areas and providing easy access to fishing spots around the entire shoreline. The Molly Lake Trail begins nearby for hikers wanting a longer outing. The flat, well-maintained loop trail around Bellaire Lake is suitable for families with young children, seniors, and visitors with mobility concerns.

Boating is limited to electric motors, kayaks, canoes, and other hand-powered or wind-powered vessels. Gas-powered motors are prohibited on the lake. This restriction keeps the water calm and quiet, making it an ideal setting for paddling and shore fishing.

Visitors should be aware that the 2020 Cameron Peak Fire burned significant forest right up to the campground boundary. While the campground itself survived, charred trees and fire-scarred rock formations are visible from many campsites. The forest is recovering, and the open canopy has actually improved views in some areas. Drinking water availability can be intermittent, so bring backup supplies.