Beckwith Reservoir is a quiet, community-oriented lake in Pueblo County, tucked into the heart of Colorado City and offering a reliable combination of fishing, walking, and family-friendly outdoor recreation. Rated 4.6 stars by 69 reviewers, this modest reservoir punches above its weight as a local favorite that many visitors from the Pueblo and Colorado Springs area prefer over larger, more crowded alternatives. The lake is surrounded by a well-maintained 1.4- to 1.5-mile paved concrete walking trail, benches, shady seating areas, and dog bag dispensers, making it an accessible destination for morning walkers, joggers, cyclists, and families with young children.
Fishing at Beckwith Reservoir is the primary draw and produces consistent catches across multiple species. Catfish grow impressively large here, with reviewers reporting 10-pound channel catfish landed from the banks. Crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, and trout round out the fishery, giving anglers variety throughout the year. The reservoir hosts a youth fishing derby each spring, introducing young anglers to the sport in a welcoming setting. Bank fishing access is excellent thanks to the paved trail that circles the entire shoreline, and the lake is small enough that most spots are reachable within a short walk from the parking area. Reviewers describe the fishing as reliably productive, with many families returning regularly because they almost always catch something.
Kayaking and tubing are popular warm-weather activities on Beckwith Reservoir. The lake is small and calm, making it well-suited for beginner kayakers and families who want a low-key paddling experience without worrying about boat traffic or strong currents. The reservoir also attracts stand-up paddleboarders and visitors who simply enjoy being near the water on a warm afternoon. Summer temperatures in the Pueblo County area can be hot, but the trees around the reservoir provide some relief and the water offers a welcome respite from the heat.
Walking and biking the paved loop trail is the other core activity at Beckwith Reservoir. The concrete path is wide, well-maintained, and flat, suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, and electric bikes. Multiple benches and shaded seating areas along the route invite visitors to pause and take in the meadow views and sunsets over the water. Dog walking is extremely popular, with dog waste bag dispensers stationed at three points around the trail, though visitors note that not all dog owners clean up after their pets. Wildlife watching adds another layer of interest, with various bird species and other animals frequenting the shoreline and surrounding grasslands. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and uncrowded, making Beckwith Reservoir a dependable escape for Pueblo County residents who want fresh air and natural scenery without a long drive or complicated logistics.