Idylwilde Reservoir, commonly known as Pinewood Reservoir, sits in the foothills of Larimer County about 20 minutes from Loveland, Colorado. This small, non-motorized reservoir delivers a mix of fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking, and camping within easy reach of the Front Range. The no-motor rule keeps the water calm and quiet, creating ideal conditions for paddlecraft and shore anglers alike. Mountain views surround the reservoir, and sunrises over the foothills draw early risers who want the water to themselves before weekend crowds arrive.
Fishing at Pinewood Reservoir targets rainbow trout, with anglers consistently reporting catches from shore and from paddlecraft. Salmon eggs and hoppers produce bites in the morning hours, and one reviewer landed seven catfish over a two-day camping trip. The reservoir is stocked, and even casual anglers typically hook at least one rainbow per visit. Fishing slows after 10 a.m. when paddleboard and kayak traffic picks up, so serious anglers should plan for dawn sessions. Bald eagles hunt the reservoir and have been spotted swooping down to snag trout from the surface.
Paddleboarding and kayaking are the most popular water activities at Pinewood. The calm, motor-free surface makes it a favorite for stand-up paddleboarders, and the reservoir's manageable size lets paddlers explore the entire shoreline in a relaxed session. Dog owners bring their pets to swim along the banks, and the atmosphere is casual and social. The water does get crowded on summer weekends, so midweek or early morning visits offer the most space.
The Besant Point Trail loops approximately 2.3 miles around the reservoir with minimal elevation change, though about half the route runs in direct sun with no shade. The western loop includes some technical mountain biking sections. Hikers report spotting deer, wild turkeys, ducklings, and the resident bald eagle pair along the trail. Spring conditions bring muddy patches, but summer shade along parts of the route makes the hike comfortable.
Camping at Pinewood includes both drive-in and walk-in sites. Most drive-in sites have electricity, a picnic table, a fire pit, and a built-in grill, though campers need to bring their own firewood. Walk-in sites open in summer only and sit among pine trees with views of the lake and sunsets. Sites sit on inclines in some areas, so popup campers should bring leveling blocks. Deer and wild turkeys roam the campground at night. Vault restrooms are available and reviewers note they are kept clean.
A Larimer County parking pass is required and can be purchased online. The pay station is located down by Carter Lake, not at the Pinewood parking lot, so buying in advance avoids confusion. Parking is limited and fills on weekends. Visitors should watch for snakes along the shoreline during warmer months, including rattlesnakes that occasionally swim near the banks. Water levels fluctuate and the reservoir is sometimes drained at year's end.