St. Vrain State Park Barbour Ponds
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St. Vrain State Park Barbour Ponds

4.4
·1k reviews·Longmont, United States

A serene Colorado escape with numerous fishing ponds, walking trails, and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and campers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Ideal for wildlife & cooler temps

CrowdLow
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St. Vrain State Park Barbour Ponds

St. Vrain State Park Barbour Ponds

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Ideal for wildlife & cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Colorado escape with numerous fishing ponds, walking trails, and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and campers.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful spot to relax and enjoy Colorado's great outdoors! The views are gorgeous, the ponds are peaceful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Day Pass Needed

Remember to purchase a day pass for entry and fishing. It's a small price for a day of nature!

👟 Water Shoes Recommended

Advised due to rocks and mud in ponds. Protect your feet!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Barbour Ponds Fishing

Barbour Ponds Fishing

Multiple ponds throughout the park

Cast a line in one of the many peaceful ponds, teeming with fish. A day pass is required for fishing.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife Viewing

Throughout the park

Spot ospreys, herons, pelicans, and more. Keep an eye out for rabbits and dragonflies too!

Walking Trails

Walking Trails

Various loops

Enjoy easy strolls with scenic views of the ponds and distant Rockies.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Ponds & Trails

St. Vrain State Park offers a serene escape with numerous fishing ponds and walking trails. While it's close to the interstate, many find the wildlife and natural beauty outweigh the distant traffic noise. Plan for fishing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Camping & Day Use

The park features campgrounds with full hookups, making it ideal for longer stays. Day passes are required for entry and fishing. Restrooms with showers are available, adding to the convenience for both campers and day visitors.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Ideal for wildlife & cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Escape the heat, enjoy sunset
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Saint Vrain paddling info

🎣 Day Pass Needed

Remember to purchase a day pass for entry and fishing. It's a small price for a day of nature! Reddit

👟 Water Shoes Recommended

Advised due to rocks and mud in ponds. Protect your feet! Reddit

reddit.com

Wanting to Kayak down St. Vrain Creek. Asking for advice.

reddit.com

Camping near Longmont

🚗 Easy Interstate Access

Conveniently located off I-25, making it a quick getaway. Reddit

🐦 Birdwatcher's Paradise

Bring binoculars for amazing sightings of osprey, herons, and more. Reddit

reddit.com

Fishing

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Day Pass Needed

Remember to purchase a day pass for entry and fishing. It's a small price for a day of nature! Reddit

👟 Water Shoes Recommended

Advised due to rocks and mud in ponds. Protect your feet! Reddit

🚗 Easy Interstate Access

Conveniently located off I-25, making it a quick getaway. Reddit

🐦 Birdwatcher's Paradise

Bring binoculars for amazing sightings of osprey, herons, and more. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St. Vrain State Park for its beautiful ponds, abundant wildlife, and convenient location. Many enjoy the fishing opportunities and the peaceful atmosphere, despite the nearby interstate. Campers appreciate the well-maintained sites with full hookups and the available amenities.

"St. Vrain State Park is such a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy Colorado’s great outdoors! The views are gorgeous, the ponds are peaceful, and it’s the perfect place for fishing, walking, or just unwinding with family. The campgrounds are clean and well-kept, and the wildlife sightings make it even more special.

As a local real estate agent in Northern Colorado, I love exploring parks like this and sharing them with clients who want to experience the best of our area. Whether you’re camping for the weekend or stopping by for a quick picnic, St. Vrain State Park is the perfect local getaway! 🌳🎣☀️"

Jackie Henderson (Real Estate Agent)

"Great place, kinda close to the interstate so you can hear the traffic going by.
Several ponds to fish in.
One loop has a full hookup, so that's nice for longer stays.
Easy on and off from I-25.
Grocery stores and food choices are close by.
A day pass is required to enter and fish.
Restrooms have showers."

Mike Lala

"St. Vrain State Park is a wonderful location to spend time. I enjoyed camping here by one of the many lakes. The restroom on-site was convenient and clean, with showers. I didn't have to step very far away to take pictures of Osprey dive-bombing into the pond, or herons trying to blend in with the water."

Kristal Kraft

What People Like

Beautiful ponds and views
Abundant wildlife sightings
Convenient location

What People Dislike

Distant traffic noise

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Vrain State Park is conveniently located just off I-25, making it easily accessible from Denver and surrounding areas. Take the appropriate exit for the park entrance. Reddit

Yes, ample parking is available throughout the park, especially near the campgrounds and trailheads. You'll find it easy to access different areas for fishing or walking. Reddit

Yes, kayaking on St. Vrain Creek is legal and possible. You'll need to figure out parking and your end point, but it's a popular activity for those seeking a bit more adventure. Reddit

As it's right off the interstate, driving conditions are generally good. However, always check local traffic reports before heading out, especially during peak travel times. Reddit

The main park entrance serves both day-use visitors and campers. You'll pay your day-use fee upon entry. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a day pass is required to enter St. Vrain State Park. This pass is also necessary if you plan to fish. Reddit

While specific prices can vary, day passes are generally affordable and can be purchased at the park entrance. Check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for current fees. Reddit

St. Vrain State Park is typically open year-round from dawn to dusk for day use. Campground hours may vary. Reddit

Day passes are usually purchased upon arrival at the park. For camping, advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

Colorado Parks and Wildlife may offer various passes, such as annual passes, which can be cost-effective for frequent visitors. Check their website for details. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy fishing in the ponds, walking the trails, wildlife viewing (especially birds like osprey and herons), camping, and picnicking. Kayaking on the creek is also an option. Reddit

Yes, restrooms with showers are available within the park, which is convenient for campers and day visitors alike. Reddit

Expect to see a variety of birds, including osprey, herons, pelicans, and Canada geese. Rabbits and dragonflies are also common sightings. Reddit

The walking trails are generally easy to navigate, suitable for most fitness levels. They offer pleasant views of the ponds and surrounding nature. Reddit

Absolutely! The park offers a safe and enjoyable environment for families with its accessible trails, fishing opportunities, and abundant wildlife. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Water Activities

The ponds are stocked with various fish, making it a popular spot for anglers. Common catches include bass and panfish. Reddit

Yes, a valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 years and older to fish in the park's waters. Reddit

Always check for posted regulations regarding catch limits, size restrictions, and specific fishing seasons for each pond. Reddit

While swimming is not explicitly prohibited, the water can be green and muddy. It's generally more suited for paddling and fishing. Reddit

Kayaking down St. Vrain Creek is a popular activity. You'll need to plan your parking and end point, and be aware of the creek's technicality and physical demands. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Vrain State Park is a fantastic spot for families. The easy walking trails are perfect for little legs, and the ponds offer exciting opportunities for fishing. Kids will be thrilled to spot various birds and other small wildlife. The availability of restrooms with showers adds a layer of convenience for families on longer visits. Reddit

Consider packing water shoes for the kids if they plan to explore near the pond edges, as there can be mud and rocks. The picnic areas are great for a family lunch, and the campgrounds offer a fun overnight adventure. It's a low-key, enjoyable outdoor experience that's easy to access. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Fishermen

For fishing enthusiasts, St. Vrain State Park is a prime destination. The park boasts several ponds stocked with fish, offering a good chance of a successful catch. Remember to obtain a Colorado fishing license before you cast your line, and be aware of any specific regulations posted within the park. Reddit

The campsites that are right on the water provide an excellent base for anglers, allowing for easy access to the ponds. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day of fishing or a weekend getaway centered around the sport, St. Vrain offers a convenient and enjoyable experience. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers

If you're looking for a quick escape into nature without a long drive, St. Vrain State Park is ideal. Its easy access from I-25 means you can be enjoying the ponds and trails within minutes of leaving the highway. Purchase a day pass and spend a few hours fishing, walking, or simply relaxing by the water. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas. The park's amenities, including restrooms, make it comfortable for a short visit. It's a great option for a spontaneous outdoor adventure or a peaceful break from city life. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating St. Vrain Creek for Kayaking

For those looking for a bit more adventure, kayaking down St. Vrain Creek is a viable option. It's legal and offers a different perspective of the park's natural beauty. Planning is key for this activity. You'll need to determine where to park your vehicle at the start of your journey and where your run will end. Consider how you'll retrieve your kayak or vehicle from the endpoint. Reddit

The creek's technicality and physical demands can vary. While not overly strenuous for experienced kayakers, it's wise to be prepared for potential challenges. Wildlife and bug expectations are similar to other areas in the park, so bring insect repellent and be aware of your surroundings. The duration of the downstream run depends on water levels and your paddling pace. Reddit

It's always a good idea to check current water conditions and any park advisories before embarking on your kayaking trip. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Reddit

Camping at St. Vrain State Park

St. Vrain State Park offers a pleasant camping experience, with many campsites situated right on the water's edge, providing beautiful lake views. The park features campsites with full hookups, which is a significant advantage for those planning longer stays or requiring amenities. The campsites are generally described as large, well-spaced, and featuring level concrete slabs, sheltered picnic tables, and fire rings. Reddit

The convenience of restrooms with showers on-site adds to the comfort of camping. While the park's proximity to I-25 means some distant traffic noise can be heard, many visitors find that it doesn't significantly detract from the overall peaceful atmosphere, especially when enjoying the natural surroundings. The park's location also offers easy access to nearby grocery stores and dining options. Reddit

Reservations are highly recommended, particularly during peak seasons, to secure a spot. The combination of scenic views, convenient amenities, and proximity to services makes St. Vrain a popular choice for campers looking for a relaxing getaway. Reddit

Wildlife and Nature Observation

St. Vrain State Park is a haven for nature watchers, particularly bird enthusiasts. The numerous ponds and surrounding vegetation attract a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors frequently report sightings of ospreys diving for fish, great blue herons wading in the shallows, pelicans, and various waterfowl like Canada geese and cormorants. Reddit

Beyond the avian life, keep an eye out for smaller creatures such as rabbits and an abundance of dragonflies and butterflies, especially during warmer months. The park's natural setting, despite its proximity to urban areas, allows for a genuine connection with Colorado's outdoors. The distant views of the Rockies add to the scenic beauty. Reddit

For the best wildlife viewing opportunities, consider visiting during the early morning or late evening when animals are often most active. Bringing binoculars will greatly enhance your ability to observe and appreciate the park's inhabitants from a respectful distance. Reddit

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