Monument Lake

Monument Lake is a small mountain lake resort in Las Animas County, tucked along Highway 12 in the scenic Spanish Peaks region of southern Colorado. The lake sits beneath views of Spanish Peak and the surrounding forested ridgelines, operating as a full-service resort with lodging, a restaurant, camping, and boat rentals. It has been drawing families and anglers for decades, with some visitors returning annually since the 1970s, though the resort experience varies significantly depending on timing and management.

Fishing at Monument Lake is the primary draw, with visitors consistently reporting that the lake holds fish and provides good catch rates. Shore fishing is accessible directly from many campsites, with site numbers 77 and 78 offering particularly convenient water access down a small hill. Boat rentals are available at the dock, including two-person motorized fishing boats, though reviewers warn that the motors on rental boats may struggle against the wind that picks up on the lake. Pontoon boats and kayaks are also available for rent, giving paddlers and anglers multiple options for getting on the water.

Camping at Monument Lake includes primitive tent sites, partial hookup spots, and full hookup RV sites. Campers should know that many sites are unlevel, requiring blocks or rocks to stabilize trailers and steps. Full hookup sites are configured as buddy sites, and the spaces can feel cramped, particularly for rigs longer than a small travel trailer or Class B motorhome. Trees at many sites make backing in larger campers difficult even when the length technically fits. Primitive sites lack picnic tables despite the cost. Check-in is at 3 PM and checkout at 10 AM, and quiet hours are strictly enforced by staff patrolling in golf carts.

The on-site restaurant receives strong praise from visitors, with several calling it the best dining within fifty miles. Breakfast service starts at 7 AM, which is notable given how scarce breakfast options are in this part of southern Colorado. The green chili bowl and chicken fried steak are standout menu items. The restaurant offers views of the lake and Spanish Peak. Friday nights feature karaoke, and live music events are regular occurrences, including the annual Caveman Music Festival held each summer.

Lodging at Monument Lake includes remodeled cabins and lodge rooms. Remodeled cabins receive high marks for quality and cleanliness. Lodge rooms feature comfortable beds and updated showers but lack standard hotel amenities like hair dryers, cups, mini-fridges, microwaves, air conditioning, and televisions. Swimming, hiking, and paddleboarding are all accessible from the resort grounds. The resort charges a separate vehicle entry fee on top of camping or lodging rates, which catches some visitors off guard. Weekday visits between Sunday and Thursday offer a quieter experience, as weekends and festival periods bring larger crowds and late-night noise. The property sits along the Highway of Legends scenic byway, making it a natural stop for travelers exploring the Sangre de Cristo range and the Spanish Peaks wilderness area.