Douglass Lake is a small fishing reservoir in Larimer County, located east of Fort Collins near the Colorado-Wyoming border corridor. Surrounded by open prairie and gentle terrain, this quiet lake attracts local anglers looking for a close-to-town trout fishing spot without the weekend traffic of Horsetooth Reservoir or the higher-elevation lakes to the west.
Fishing is the core reason to visit Douglass Lake, and anglers who put in the time report catching good-size trout. The lake receives stocking, and shore fishing access lets you work multiple spots around the perimeter. Mornings and evenings tend to produce better results, especially during warmer months when daytime activity pushes fish deeper. Bringing a variety of presentations helps since conditions change throughout the season. Fly fishing can be productive here when hatches are active.
A pass is required for every person at Douglass Lake, including non-anglers who are simply accompanying friends or family. This is an important detail to know before you arrive. Purchase your pass in advance to avoid any issues at the access point. A valid Colorado fishing license is also required for anyone actively fishing.
The road leading to Douglass Lake is unpaved and can be rough, particularly after rain or during spring thaw. Visitors recommend bringing a truck or vehicle with higher clearance, as the washboard surface and occasional ruts make the drive uncomfortable in a standard sedan. Parking at the lake itself is limited, and weekends can make finding a spot difficult. Visiting midweek offers a noticeably calmer experience with fewer vehicles and more open shoreline.
Facilities at Douglass Lake are minimal. Restrooms are on site but have been described as needing maintenance. There are no formal picnic shelters, boat ramps, or concession areas. The simplicity is part of the appeal for some visitors, but families should plan accordingly by packing food, water, sun protection, and anything else they might need.
The lake has seen increasing use from paddleboarders and swimmers alongside anglers, which can create conflicts during busy periods. Enforcement presence is reportedly inconsistent, so expect a mix of activities on summer weekends. Despite these growing pains, midweek visits and early mornings still deliver the peaceful, low-key fishing experience that regulars value.
Douglass Lake fishes best from spring through fall, with late spring stocking giving early-season anglers the strongest action. Winter conditions and road access can limit visits during colder months. The lake sits at a moderate elevation on the northern Front Range plains, so weather is generally milder than mountain destinations, extending the comfortable fishing window.
Douglass Lake is best for local anglers, families seeking a short trip close to Fort Collins, and anyone who prefers a simpler fishing experience over developed recreation areas.