Sweetwater Lake State Park

Sweetwater Lake State Park is a Colorado State Park in Garfield County, Colorado in the United States, approximately 18 miles (29 km) north of the town of Dotsero. The park contains 488 acres (197 ha) and is located within the White River National Forest in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area.[1] The park is unique in that it is the first state park in the nation to be created from land owned by the United States Forest Service. Governor Jared Polis announced the creation of the park, Colorado's 43rd, on October 20, 2021.[2]

Sweetwater Lake State Park
Map showing the location of Sweetwater Lake State Park
Map showing the location of Sweetwater Lake State Park
Location of Sweetwater Lake State Park in Colorado
LocationColorado, United States
Nearest cityGlenwood Springs
Coordinates39°47′56.76″N 107°9′55.44″W
Area488 acres (197 ha)
Elevation7,713 ft (2,351 m)
Established2021
Named forSweetwater Lake
Governing bodyColorado Parks and Wildlife
Website

History

The 72-acre natural lake and surrounding land was originally part of a privately owned ranch and had been considered for a golf course or housing developments.[3] In order to protect the area from development, The Conservation Fund acquired the property in 2020 and held the parcel until the White River National Forest obtained a federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant to purchase the property.[4]

Activities

Upon completion, the park will offer boating, camping, hiking, and picnic areas to visitors.[5]

See also

References
  1. Otárola, Miguel. "Sweetwater Lake is Colorado's newest state park". Colorado Public Radio. Retrieved December 11, 2021.
  2. "Sweetwater Lake is Colorado's newest state park". RMPBS. Retrieved December 11, 2021.
  3. "Sweetwater Lake on Track to Become Colorado's Newest State Park". 303 Magazine. November 22, 2021. Retrieved December 11, 2021.
  4. "What Is Sweetwater Lake, A 'Hidden Gem' That's Soon-To-Be Colorado's 43rd State Park?". October 24, 2021. Retrieved December 11, 2021.
  5. "Sweetwater Lake on Track to Become Colorado's Newest State Park". 303 Magazine. November 22, 2021. Retrieved December 11, 2021.
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