Boat ramps remain partially open due to hiring shortage at Horsetooth Reservoir, Carter Lake

Due to a hiring shortage of Aquatic Nuisance Species inspectors, boat ramps at Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake in Larimer County will be partially open this May. Visitors should expect a wait when entering or exiting the water. Beginning May 1, the following new hours are in effect:

Horsetooth Reservoir

• South Bay ramp: 6 a.m.-10 p.m. every day
• Inlet Bay ramp: 6 a.m.-10 p.m. every day
• Satanka: CLOSED

Carter Lake

• North Pines ramp, 6 a.m.-10 p.m. every day
• South Shore: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday & Sunday ONLY
• North Ramp Marina: CLOSED

Ramps hours may be extended mid-May based on continued hiring. Also, ramps may be closed for poor weather conditions, water level, or staffing constraints.

“A lack of seasonal staff is impacting our ability to open all six ramps on May 1,” said Dan Rieves, Horsetooth Reservoir District Manager. “We are working diligently to fill the gaps, and we ask the community for their patience as they arrive for a day on the water.”

Both reservoirs frequently reach capacity during the week and on weekends, especially during the summer. To avoid waiting, visitors are encouraged to come early or late (before 9 a.m./after 4 p.m.), check parking webcams before arrival, and have a plan B in mind if parking is full.

Several seasonal positions are available in the Department of Natural Resources at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colarimerco.

Additionally, visitors should note Satanka Bay cove at Horsetooth Reservoir converts to a non-motorized use zone (paddlecraft only) from May 27 through September 5. 

For the up-to-date schedule of boat ramp hours, visit www.larimer.gov/boating. For viewing parking lot webcams, visit larimer.org/naturalresources/parks/webcams