Eleven Mile State Park

For a quiet nature getaway with the entire family, including four-legged members, look no further than the Eleven Mile State Park! Though this 7,500-acre park is best known for its fishing opportunities, there are plenty of other recreational activities that you can enjoy with your furry buddy.

Spend some quality time outdoors with your doggo by setting up camp at the Eleven Mile State Park. There are 355 campsites in 9 separate campgrounds surrounding the lake, including basic, electric, and lakeshore sites. Note that a camping permit is required in addition to the vehicle pass if you're staying overnight. You'll find the electrical sites in the Rocky Ridge Campground, which is tucked away among trees and rocky outcrops. For the most scenic campground, look for the backcountry sites on the wooded peninsula near the east end of the reservoir. This is the prettiest part of the park—even if you're not camping here, going for a hike through this area is highly recommended.

Speaking of hiking, your adventurous pup will be pleased to know that there are nearly 5 miles of trails for them to explore. A pleasant walk awaits on the Coyote Ridge Interpretive Trail, which begins just off the Coyote Ridge parking lot. Composed of two loops, Ponderosa and Aspen, this 1.35-mile nature trail will lead you and your pooch across a low ridge and through various micro-ecosystems. For something a little different, try the 3.16-mile Orienteering Trail. Instead of following a constructed pathway, you and Fido will be making your way from waypoint to waypoint by following a set of instructions with a compass.

Other activities that you and your pup can enjoy together are picnicking, boating, wildlife viewing, and snowshoeing in the winter. Whatever you do, always keep your pooch on a 6-foot leash and pick up after them. Bring clean-up bags from home, and enough water to share too! Keep in mind that swimming is prohibited for both humans and canines at Eleven Mile.

You and your dog will surely have a furrific time exploring Colorado's great outdoors at the Eleven Mile State Park!