Stratford Lakes
Rate this placeNearby: Federal Square, Part 2 Mushroom Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Stratford Lakes is a beautiful region located in the state of Colorado, offering visitors a wealth of reasons to explore its stunning natural beauty and unique attractions.
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Summary
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, this area boasts a plethora of outdoor activities, historical landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes.
One of the best reasons to visit Stratford Lakes is its picturesque setting, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and lush forests. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a wide range of activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting. The lakes in the area provide excellent opportunities for water-based activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
One notable point of interest in Stratford Lakes is the Stratford Historical Society Museum. This museum showcases the region's rich history, preserving artifacts and documents that highlight the area's development over the years. Visitors can learn about the first settlers, local industries, and the cultural heritage of the community.
Another must-see attraction is the breathtaking Stratford Reservoir. Surrounded by towering mountains, this reservoir offers stunning views that are perfect for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.
For nature lovers, the Stratford Lakes Nature Preserve is a hidden gem. With its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, this preserve offers exceptional opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Visitors may encounter various species of birds, as well as deer, elk, and occasionally, black bears.
An interesting fact about the Stratford Lakes area is that it served as a key trading post and transportation hub during the early days of Colorado's settlement. The region's strategic location made it an important stop for pioneers and traders traveling through the Rocky Mountains.
The best time of year to visit Stratford Lakes is during the summer and early fall. From June to September, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. During this time, wildflowers are in full bloom, and the lakes offer clear waters perfect for swimming and fishing.
To ensure the accuracy of the information provided, it is recommended to cross-reference multiple independent sources, such as official park websites, local tourism websites, and travel guides.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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