Lake Granby
Just 5 miles outside the town of Granby, Lake Granby encompasses 7,256 acres, making it the third largest body of water in Colorado. With 40 miles of beautifully scenic shoreline, boating, kayaking, camping, fishing, and hiking are just some of the must-do activities on the lake. Lake Granby is a little slice of paradise, right outside of downtown Granby where year-round, outdoor adventures are to be had. The whole family will find their own reason to love the lake, making it the perfect destination for future vacations or day trips.
HISTORY
Constructed in 1950 as part of the Colorado Big Thompson Project, Lake Granby is the largest storage reservoir of the project’s 12 total reservoirs. Water from Lake Granby is pumped via the Farr Pump plant, emptying into a canal connected to Shadow Mountain Reservoir. Another interesting fact? The Lake Granby Yacht Club is one of the highest elevation yacht clubs in the world at 8,280 feet above sea level.
BOATING
If you’re looking to spend some time out on the water, you can rent a boat for the day or even just a few hours at any of the marinas located on the lake, who are happy to provide you with everything you need. If you have your own boat, there are several boat launches to use during the summer months so you can enjoy the endless blue skies and mountainous views.
KAYAKING & CANOEING
Bring your kayak or canoe or rent one when you get here, as you’ll find many visitors and locals spending their day rowing through the lake. Don’t forget, the lake is BIG! When you get tired, head to the shore to enjoy a cold beverage and some lunch before continuing on.
FISHING
Continuously stocked with trout and kokanee salmon, Lake Granby is a haven for anglers. During the summer months, spend your day relaxing with a pole in hand, taking in the breathtaking views all around. In the winter, fishermen descend upon the lake to take their chance at ice fishing. Lake Granby is even home to the largest ice fishing tournament west of the Mississippi, the 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest, which takes place every January.
If you’re looking for a genuine experience with a local guide, sign up for a full or half-day excursion with Fishing With Bernie. Or, stop by the local tackle shops in town to get some tips and tricks for fishing Lake Granby. Just make sure you have a valid Colorado fishing license before you head out.
CAMPING
With more than 250 campsites on or near Lake Granby’s shoreline, camping is a popular activity for the outdoor enthusiast. With plenty of spots to choose from, you can be close to the water or right next to a trail, ready to start hiking as soon as the sun pops up from behind the mountain walls. Speaking of hiking trails, many are located just off of Lake Granby with some climbing high up into the mountains, gaining a birds-eye view of the lake below.
Arapaho Bay Campground
Arapaho Bay Campground is situated on the eastern tip of Lake Granby with 84 non-electric sites. Reservations operate on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reserve on recreation.gov >
Stillwater Campground
Stillwater Campground is situated on the northern shore with 129 sites (21 sites with electric hookups). Reservations operate on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reserve on recreation.gov >
Sunset Point Campground
Sunset Point Campground is a first-come, first-served campground with 25 non-electric sites on the southern shores of Lake Granby.
Learn more >
All campers must purchase an Arapaho National Recreation Area Pass in addition to their camping reservation. This can be purchased online or at a fee station on site.
