Lon Hagler Reservoir SWA - Image 1
1 / 3

Lon Hagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area

4.6
·249 reviews·Loveland, United States

A serene state wildlife area offering scenic reservoir views, abundant wildlife, and a popular archery range. Perfect for walks, fishing, and nature a...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early Spring / Late Fall

Less muddy, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Lon Hagler Reservoir SWA - Image 1

Lon Hagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Best Time

Early Spring / Late Fall

Less muddy, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene state wildlife area offering scenic reservoir views, abundant wildlife, and a popular archery range. Perfect for walks, fishing, and nature appreciation.

4.6
(249 reviews)

"Always loved Lon Hagler!! We'll DEFINITELY be back!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Fishing License Needed

A fishing license is required for all state lands, even if you're not fishing. 🎟️

🗑️ Pack Out All Trash

No trash cans available. Remember to pack out everything you bring in, including pet waste. :womantippinghand:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 249 reviews

Type

Wildlife Park

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Reservoir Loop Trail

Scenic Reservoir Loop Trail

Around the reservoir

Hike or walk the full trail for stunning views and diverse wildlife sightings. Perfect for dog walkers!

Reddit
Shoreline Fishing

Shoreline Fishing

Various points around the reservoir

Enjoy fishing with a chance to catch your first fish or a memorable haul. Water levels can vary.

Reddit+1
Archery Range

Archery Range

Designated archery area

A well-equipped range with various obstacles and distances for target practice.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Fishing License Required

Even if you're not fishing, a fishing license is required to access state lands like Lon Hagler Reservoir. Plan ahead to avoid any issues with wildlife officials. Reddit

Pack Out What You Pack In

There are no trash cans available at Lon Hagler. Be prepared to carry out all your trash, including pet waste, to keep the area pristine. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early Spring / Late Fall
Why
Less muddy, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, beautiful views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Kayaking in/around Loveland

Howdy all! I'm new to town and looking to get my paddles wet. Where are good, chill places to do so? Also, do I need a fishing license to access state lands even if I'm not fishing? Thanks in advance!

🎣 Fishing License Needed

A fishing license is required for all state lands, even if you're not fishing. Reddit 🎟️

🗑️ Pack Out All Trash

No trash cans available. Remember to pack out everything you bring in, including pet waste. Reddit :womantippinghand:

reddit.com

Paddleboarding at HorseTooth

Hello, I'm looking for a place to go paddleboarding this weekend. I usually go to chatfield state park in the south Denver area but wanted to try out HorseTooth. My main concern is the amount of available space to explore or if the sections only allow certain watercraft Online…

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails

Dogs are welcome on trails and in designated areas. Keep them leashed where required. Reddit 🐕

⚠️ Watch for Debris

Be cautious of broken glass and debris near the water's edge. Reddit ⚠️

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Fishing License Needed

A fishing license is required for all state lands, even if you're not fishing. Reddit 🎟️

🗑️ Pack Out All Trash

No trash cans available. Remember to pack out everything you bring in, including pet waste. Reddit :womantippinghand:

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails

Dogs are welcome on trails and in designated areas. Keep them leashed where required. Reddit 🐕

⚠️ Watch for Debris

Be cautious of broken glass and debris near the water's edge. Reddit ⚠️

🦅 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for bald eagles, cranes, herons, and other diverse bird species. Reddit 🐦

What Travellers Say

4.6
(249 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Lon Hagler Reservoir for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for walks, fishing, and archery. While the lack of trash cans and occasional muddy trails are noted drawbacks, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many cherishing the memories made here. Reddit+2

"I have ALWAYS loved Lon Hagler!! I have very fond memories of walking to the lake from my Godfathers house off of County rd 21 (the blue house right across the street from the north entrance) and fishing, or just hiking around, and have Always held a special place in my heart for this place. We were there this past weekend (5/3/2025) and I just so happen to have had the pleasure of taking my daughter to fish for her very 1st time. Now, I don't know what was in the water, but my daughter happened to have ALL of the luck and not only caught her 1st fish, but caught the most out of everyone we had there! Thank you for the memories, Lon Hagler! We'll DEFINITELY be back!"

Nick Dorroh

"Been walking dogs here for years. We love Lon Hagler. There is a trail all the way around the reservoir. Mind there aren't any trash cans so you pack out pup waste. Gorgeous views, boat dock and ramp, beach access to the water. Assume it's a decent fishing spot but that's not my dealio. Saw a bald eagle for the first time in 5 years on the southwest side this summer. You'll see cranes, herons, geese, etc. too. You can walk dogs in the archery area - I prefer to do this late fall winter when nobody is there but there are plenty of fabulous sniff options, little obstacles to work, etc. There is also a dog area below the reservoir to the east with sniff zones, brush, hunting practice, etc. Tons of prairie dogs and (watch your footing) holes. It gets a tad mushy/muddy (the trail) in early spring but the area is lovely year round."

Blake Hanick

"If he is indeed a professional with Fish and Game he needs to be able to carry that and be able to identify himself , not safe to ride up people like that on the grasslands he was ripping grass up and making new paths with the four wheeler yelling at people . He dosnt own the land . He should have a helmet on while riding on two wheels for his safety ,not chasing cars down . Nor could he identify he is an officer with fish and game .
Next time do so or police will be called .very dangerous to not be able to show that . Volunteer perhaps?
Please read signs and it says no atvs … practice the rules as a normal citizen and volunteer should .kindly put"

Brecken Fenwick

What People Like

Beautiful reservoir views
Abundant wildlife sightings
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

No trash cans
Muddy trails in spring
Variable water levels

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lon Hagler Reservoir is located near Loveland, Colorado. Access is typically via County Road 21. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas, including a south entrance parking lot. Be aware that water levels can sometimes come up close to the parking area. Reddit

Kayaking is permitted on Lon Hagler Reservoir. It's a great way to explore the water and enjoy the scenery. Reddit

While specific entry fees aren't widely mentioned, a fishing license is required for access to state lands, even if you're not fishing. Reddit

As a state wildlife area, it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check with Colorado Parks and Wildlife for any specific seasonal closures or restrictions.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a fishing license is required to access state lands like Lon Hagler Reservoir, regardless of whether you plan to fish. Reddit

Dogs are welcome at Lon Hagler Reservoir and can be walked on the trails and in designated areas. Reddit

Signs indicate no ATVs are allowed. It's important to adhere to the rules and regulations of the wildlife area. Reddit

Shoreline fishing is popular, but water levels can fluctuate, impacting accessibility. It's known for being a good spot for beginners to catch fish. Reddit

Yes, there's a dog area to the east below the reservoir with brush and hunting practice zones, offering plenty of sniffing opportunities. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

There's a trail that goes all the way around the reservoir, offering scenic views. It can get a bit muddy in early spring. Reddit

Visitors often spot bald eagles, cranes, herons, geese, and numerous other bird species. Prairie dogs are also abundant. Reddit

The reservoir offers beautiful views, especially during sunset, and opportunities to photograph diverse wildlife. Reddit

While specific picnic facilities aren't detailed, the scenic shores offer spots for relaxation. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

Shoreline fishing is enjoyable when water levels are favorable. The reservoir's water level can change, affecting fishing spots. Reddit

🎫 🎯 Archery Range

The range offers numerous obstacles to shoot around, under, and over, with distances up to 40 yards. There's also a small area for shooting up to 60 yards and a broadhead pit. Reddit

With various distances and obstacles, it can accommodate different skill levels. It's a great place to practice and improve your archery skills. Reddit

It's crucial to follow all posted signs and safety guidelines for the archery range to ensure a safe experience for everyone. Reddit

Yes, there is a dedicated broadhead pit available at the archery range for those who wish to practice with them. Reddit

The range is described as awesome with plenty of options for varying shooting distances and interesting bone decor. Reddit

You may also like

Lon Hagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide