Colorado / Teller County / Pike National Forest

Manitou Lake Pavilion

Closed — Open year-round, weather permitting. Reservations available via Recreation.gov. Day-use only; no overnight camping.

About

Manitou Lake Pavilion is a group day-use picnic facility located within Manitou Lake Picnic Area in Pike National Forest, 7 miles north of Woodland Park, Colorado. Situated on the west side of the 5-acre Manitou Lake reservoir at 7,700 feet elevation, this open-air pavilion provides a scenic mountain setting for group gatherings of up to 50 people. The pavilion features two fireplaces, group picnic tables, and a large cooking grill. Adjacent facilities include potable water hydrants and vault toilets. A grassy meadow area allows for outdoor sports and activities. Manitou Lake is fed by Trout Creek and is stocked with trout, making it a popular year-round fishing destination. Swimming and wading are prohibited in the reservoir. The area is known for excellent birding with diverse waterfowl and land bird species. The paved Centennial Bike Trail (Trail #699) can be accessed from the picnic area and connects to nearby Painted Rocks, Colorado, and South Meadows Campgrounds over approximately 4.2 miles. A hiking trail (Trail #670) loops around the lake. The terrain combines grassy meadows with ponderosa pine forest. Nearby attractions include Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Park. The facility is managed by the U.S. Forest Service in partnership with Rocky Mountain Recreation Company.

Directions

From Colorado Springs, travel on U.S. Highway 24 approximately 18 miles to Woodland Park. Take Highway 67 north approximately 7 miles. Manitou Lake is on the right (east) side of the highway, 1 mile north of Colorado Campground.

Nearby Campgrounds