Biking
Four miles of wide, level gravel trails in the wildlife area provide a pleasant, safe hiking or mountain biking experience among the low dunes and wetlands. The wildlife area is closed from Feb. 15 until July 15.
Birding
Great birding opportunities are currently available at San Luis Lake and at the State Wildlife area which is now open. There are many shorebirds in the area, in addition to many other species.
Boating
San Luis Lake is currently closed to motor boats but hand launched boats may be used. Call the Monte Vista CPW Office at 719-587-6900 for current water levels at boat ramp accessibility.
When the lake is at normal water levels, water skiing, motor boating, personal watercraft, fishing, sailing and windsurfing are popular activities at San Luis Lake. The 890 surface-acre lake is a sandy, shallow bowl with gently sloping sides and few hazards. The wide boat ramp and stable water level provides boaters with easy loading and unloading of vessels. All boats must remain south of the wildlife area buoy line at the north end of the lake to protect valuable waterfowl nesting habitat. San Luis Lake, at 7,519 feet in elevation, is the warmest body of water in the San Luis Valley. Swimming is not permitted in the lake. Colorado boating statutes and regulations apply.
Camping
San Luis State Wildlife Area features a modern campground. All 51 sites have electrical hookups, sheltered tables, fire grills, and an available dump station. Campsites feature a panoramic view of San Luis Lake, the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range and the Great Sand Dunes. The campground has two vault toilets. Bring your own water as the campground does not have any potable water or showers. Bring your own firewood and ice.
Dog-friendly
Dogs are welcome in the state wildlife area as long as:
they are on a six foot or shorter leash at all times
their waste is properly disposed of
Fishing
Fishing is allowed. Boat ramp will open for boat fishing this summer if water level is high enough.
Horseback Riding
Four miles of wide, level gravel trails in the wildlife area provide a pleasant, safe hiking or mountain biking experience among the low dunes and wetlands. The wildlife area is closed from Feb. 15 until July 15 annually.
Hunting
Hunting of big game, waterfowl and small game is permitted in the wildlife area north of San Luis Lake when in season.
Picnicking
The Needles Picnic Area is located at the boat ramp and has restroom facilities. Originally designed for individual family use, the area is also popular with groups. Additional picnic sites are located along the western shore of San Luis Lake.
