Water Activities

Colorado snow-capped mountains are the headwaters to crystal blue lakes and life-sustaining rivers that provide abundant recreation opportunities for water activities. Enjoy kayaking across the sparkling waters of Twin or Turquoise Lakes or feel the thrill of rafting down the Arkansas River.

Non-native aquatic nuisance species threaten Colorado's lakes and streams. Learn more about the aquatic species threatening Colorado waters at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Aquatic Nuisance Species Program website.

Before leaving the water:

• Clean and dry your boat
• Remove plug and drain your boat

Boating - Motorized

There are many motorized boating opportunities on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.  

• Contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife to learn the rules about using any boat with a motor or sail operated on any water system in Colorado.
• Contact the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to learn more about boating in Kansas.

Boating - Non-Motorized

Floating or paddling is the perfect way to view wildlife and take in the beauty of riparian vegetation. So, bring your kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board and enjoy the many waterways on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.

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Recreation Opportunities

Boating - Motorized (5)

Boating - Non-Motorized (8)

Showing: 1 - 8 of 8 results

Dikeside Boating Site

This boating site is located on Rampart Reservoir.

Lake Isabel Cabin

Site Open

A quaint historical Forest Ranger cabin adjacent to the Lake Isabel Recreation Area. A day-use fee is charged at the recreation area which provides a stocked fishing lake, hiking and motorized…

Manitou Lake Picnic Area

Site Open

Manitou Lake is a 5-acre reservoir where the entire family can enjoy fishing and hiking Trail #670 around the lake. Due to easy area access and popularity, fishing occurs year-round in the reservoir.…

Matchless Boating Site

Matchless Boating Site provides the boat ramp for Turquoise Lake. Located on the southeastern shoreline, recreation vehicle camping and picnicking areas share this site.

Pikes Peak Ranger District - Recreation

601 South Weber StreetColorado Springs, CO 80903Phone: 719-636-1602Fax: 719-477-4233Coming North: Take I-25S and exit Hwy 24W/Cimarron Street (Exit 141). Keep right at the fork to go on W Cimarron…

Red Rooster Boating Site

Site Open

Located on the Northwest shore of Twin Lakes that offers allows access to the lake for SUP and kayak use and the Interlaken boat tours take off from this site. SUP and kayaks can be rented at this…

Turquoise Lake Recreation Area

Site Open

Sitting deep in the forest west of Leadville, Turquoise Lake takes its name from the turquoise mines that produced the semiprecious stone in Leadville's not too distant past. A spot prized for its…

Twin Lakes Recreation Area

Site Open

Located nearly in the center of the Leadville Ranger District, the Twin Lakes Recreation Area provides many different opportunities for recreation. Scenic drivers and road cyclists can enjoy the…