Birdwatching at Fossil Creek Reservoir in Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area

The Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, located just southeast of Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a serene environment for nature enthusiasts looking to escape the bustling city life. This 843-acre area is a prime location for wildlife viewing and outdoor relaxation enthusiasts seeking a peaceful setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Fishing here is not permitted. The area is popular for recreational use thanks to the ease of access and scenic surroundings, where visitors can take in panoramic views of both the reservoir and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area was created through a partnership between the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County and North Poudre Irrigation Company to conserve 1,398 acres. The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department is responsible for the management of the site including restoration and stewardship, trail and site maintenance, snow removal, enforcement, volunteer opportunities and education programs.

Please note that fishing is not permitted at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area. The highest priority in managing this natural area is conservation of natural resources while providing public recreation. The trails are designed to minimize human impact to sensitive wildlife. Biking, water recreation (boating and fishing), and pets all have a significant impact on wildlife; thus not permitted.

Note: Dogs, bikes and horses are not allowed at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area. In alignment with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals that have been trained to assist a person with a disability are always allowed.

Adventure Guide to Fossil Creek Reservoir

Fossil Creek Reservoir is part of the region's greater effort to preserve habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors may spot bald eagles, and great blue herons, adding a wildlife-watching bonus to the experience.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon provide cooler temperatures and greater birding activity.
Driving Directions: From Fort Collins, take CO-392 east for approximately 10 minutes to reach the main entrance.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Michael Paisis (PofC)a year ago

Great little park and quite with no pets allow so they cant disturbed nature. We enjoy our stroll through and we saw some bald eagles in the lake. One of my favor parks to go to and relax.

María Povedaa year ago

We went there for the Eagle Watch and saw a couple of eagles and some nests. The volunteers did such an amazing job explaining everything there is to know about the natural area and the eagles. The paths were perfectly walkable even after the snow last day. The lake was frozen and beautiful, as well as the view from the mountains on sunset.

Rob6 years ago

Big reservoir with birds everywhere. Long trails to walk around looking for eagles. Plenty of parking and nice bathrooms too. There are picnic shelters here and there. There are platforms to stand on with your binoculars to watch eagles. Bring your bug spray because there are lots and lots of swarms of them flying everywhere on the trails. The view of the mountains is great from here and a sunset picture would be very nice

Aaron Deckera year ago

This is a really nice and extremely open space to visit. There seems to be lots of opportunity to see wildlife as well as great views of the mountains. There are permanent restrooms here as well as picnic tables, bike stations, shelters, and hiking trails. Enjoy!

Lorie Wayne Chesnut3 years ago

This is just a wonderful place to be! And a great birding location. We hiked there in January and saw two Bald Eagles, several other raptors, and two Black Squirrels. I'm going back in Spring to see more migratory birds. It is so hard to believe that it is just outside of the city and near I-25. If you have a scope, bring it ... the birds always seem to be on the OTHER side of the lake!

Fishing

Birdwatching at Fossil Creek Reservoir in Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area