Contact Information
708 LodgeP.O.le Drive
Bellvue, CO 80512
970-493-1623
This state park encompasses 13 acres of land along the Cache la Poudre River, 12 miles northwest of Fort Collins. This site is used mainly by anglers, kayakers and rafters. Along this stretch of river is the only beginning-level white water on the Cache la Poudre. It begins above Upper Picnic Rock and ends at lower Picnic Rock. The fishing at Picnic Rock is good for brown, brook and rainbow trout. The state Division of Wildlife stocks the non-wild trout waters of the Cache la Poudre River with 53,000 fish. "The Poudre," as many users refer to the river, is protected by the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1986. This means that the natural flow of the river cannot be obstructed by dams, for development projects, like many Colorado rivers. This is truly a scenic river canyon.
Picnic Rock State Park provides river access and picnic facilities. Eight picnic tables, fire grates and vault toilets are available on site. West of the site, various trails and roads of the Roosevelt National Forest provide recreation opportunities.
Fishing, kayaking and rafting are most popular at Picnic Rock State Park. Picnicking can also be accommodated at the site. West of Picnic Rock State Park, in Roosevelt National Forest, you will find access to hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, camping, horseback riding and four-wheel driving.
The climate of Picnic Rock State Park is very similar to that of Fort Collins. The state park lies at an elevation of approximately 5,700 feet in the foot hills of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors to this site enjoy a moderate, four-season climate. Because of its location, on the eastern slope of the foothills, the area is buffered from the extremes of both summer and winter weather. This site can be dangerous during the high waters of spring run off. Boaters and anglers should be cautious about entering the water during the spring months.
