Haviland Lake: The Colorado Mountain Lake Destination

Where is Haviland Lake? Driving Directions

Where is Haviland Lake?

Haviland Lake is located in Southwest Colorado north of Durango in the San Juan National Forest. As you take Highway 550 north, you’ll go by interesting stops like Pinkerton Hot Springs, and you can continue past the lake to popular destinations like Silverton, and even farther by taking the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray.

Getting to Haviland Lake

It couldn’t be easier to get to Haviland Lake from Durango, Colorado. Take Highway 550 north for 18 miles, then turn right onto Haviland Lake Road. In just a mile, you’ll reach the campground.

From Cortez, take Highway 160 east for 45 miles, then turn left onto Highway 550 north for 18 miles.

The campground is one mile after you turn onto Haviland Lake Road. It’s 65 miles from Cortez to Haviland Lake.

Haviland Lake is 80 miles from Pagosa Springs, Colorado.

To get to the lake from Pagosa Springs, take Highway 160 west for 60 miles, then take a slight right turn as the road becomes Highway 550 north.

After 20 miles, turn right onto Haviland Lake Road.

GPS Coordinates for Haviland Lake

The campground is located at these coordinates provided by the Forest Service: 37° 32′ 4.9999″ N 107° 48′ 20.9999″ W.

Road Conditions at Haviland Lake

All roads to Haviland Lake are paved, as are the roads within the campground. A passenger vehicle will have no trouble getting to the lake and campground.

However, in Colorado’s high mountain winter, conditions can quickly change, so check road conditions before you go.

Remember, Haviland Lake is at 8,705 feet elevation, so winter temperatures will be cold, roads could be icy, and mountain access could be limited.

Best Time to Visit Haviland Lake

When is the best time to visit a beautiful lake high in the Colorado mountains? Just about any time you can get away! Seriously, it all depends on your schedule and what you plan to do on your visit. 

Here are some thoughts to keep in mind:

• Spring (April – May): Snow will likely be melting, making things muddy. It’s a little early for wildflowers at this high elevation. You can try some early-season fishing. The Haviland Lake Campground opens in early May.
• Summer (June – August): Summer is peak season with ideal weather. Wildflowers will be blooming. Book your campground early so you don’t miss out.
• Fall (September – October): Now’s the time for autumn colors, cooler temperatures, and fewer visitors, making it a great time to vacation. Evenings and mornings can be chilly. Keep in mind that the Haviland Lake Campground closes in late September.
• Winter (November – March): If you love snow sports, make a day trip to Haviland Lake to try some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. 

If leaf peeping is in your travel plans, fall color reports are provided by the San Juan National Forest, helping visitors pinpoint the best time to visit.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, “The colors in the San Juan Mountains tend to start mid-September near Silverton and finish up early to mid-October around Pagosa Springs, Purgatory, and Dolores.”

Haviland Lake Fishing Guide

Haviland Lake in Colorado’s La Plata County is popular with anglers looking to land the Rainbow, Brook, and Brown Trout that are stocked regularly by Colorado Fish and Wildlife.

They can fish from the shore of the 80-acre lake or launch an electric or hand-powered boat at the public boat ramp on the south shore of the lake. There is also an accessible fishing dock on the lakeshore. 

Many day visitors park along the road in the State Wildlife Area before the campground entrance, where the boat ramp can be found. Fishing is also allowed in the day-use picnic areas and all along the lakefront.

Fishing licenses are required for all anglers aged 16 and above. Those aged 18 and above also need an Annual Habitat Stamp.

You can buy a license online before your trip. Annual fishing licenses are valid from March 1 through March 31 of the next year, providing 13 months of fishing access. Daily and short-term licenses are also available. 

Trout Fishing Tips and Gear

In still waters like Haviland Lake, trout will be looking for food while trying to stay close to cover. Try fishing near water plants, around rocks or logs where the water flows into the lake, and during the summer, in deeper water where they can stay cool.

Fishing for trout just requires some basic gear, making it a popular family activity. 

• A medium-weight 6- or 7-foot pole with reel and 4–6-pound monofilament line
• Some 1/16-ounce spinners
• Size 8 bait hooks
• Bobbers
• #5 lead split shot
• Landing net
• Worms and/or prepared bait (ask the local bait shop for recommendations)

Remember to collect all your fishing line and hooks before you leave. Abandoned fishing lines can kill birds and other wildlife.

Haviland Lake Camping

Haviland Lake Campground is located in the San Juan National Forest and is operated by the U.S. Forest Service. It is open from early May through late September. There are 45 campsites in four loops, and 17 sites have electrical hookups for RVs.

The campground has both single- and double-family sites, and many have excellent views of and easy access to the lake. There are both reservation and non-reservation sites.

Fees

Campsite fees range from $32 for standard non-electric sites up to $98 for premium electric sites. Seniors with Golden Age Passports qualify for discounted rates.

Since some sites are non-reservation, be sure to have the Recreation.gov app on your phone so you can use the Scan-and-Pay option when you find your perfect campsite.

Reservations

The maximum stay at this campground is 14 days per visit and a total of 14 days within a rolling 30-day period.

Tips

Important tips include knowing that this is bear country, so use the provided food lockers and follow bear-safe food practices. In addition, to prevent the spread of insects that can kill trees, only use firewood obtained at or near the campground.

Facilities and Fires

Campground facilities include accessible vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water. Be aware that fire bans may be in effect, so check before lighting a campfire.

If you do have a fire, make sure it is completely out before leaving it unattended. Smokey Bear’s website has important fire safety tips.

There are trailheads at and near the park, which will be discussed in the next section.

Hiking Trails Near Haviland Lake

There are multiple trails in the San Juan National Forest that you can access from Haviland Lake. Before you pull on your hiking boots and hit the trail, remember that you’re starting at over 8,000 feet in elevation and will likely climb even higher.

If you’re not yet acclimated to the elevation, take it easy and drink plenty of water. Healthy, easily digested snacks help prevent altitude sickness, too. You’ll sunburn more easily at high elevation, so wear a hat and use sunscreen.

Haviland Lake Trail

One popular hike is the Haviland Lake Trail, a 3.8-mile, moderately challenging loop that heads south of the campground.

It has an elevation gain of about 550 feet and takes less than two hours, depending on how many selfies you stop to take along the way.

The Haviland Lake Trail also offers longer, interconnecting sections, with the option to traverse a nine-mile network between Haviland Lake and Chris Park. These trails are used by hikers, bikers, and equestrians, then in winter by skiers and snowshoers. 

Find the trailhead by keeping right past the lakeside parking lot and looking for the trailhead just to the east. There is a parking area at the trailhead. 

Shoreline Trail

You can circumnavigate the lake on the Haviland Lake Shoreline Trail, an easy 1.9-mile loop around the lake. Some hikers report that the trail becomes marshy on the far side of the lake, so it can be used as an out-and-back if the going gets muddy.

Rico-to Rockwood Wagon Road

Another hiking option is along the historic Rico-to-Rockwood Wagon Road, which passes near Haviland Lake and Chris Park, a nearby group campground.

Built in the late 1800s, it was a toll road linking the railroad town of Rockwood, north of Durango, and the mining town of Rico. It was used between 1881 and 1892 until the railroad provided easier transportation.

Signage along the trails provides historical context while you enjoy the shade of Ponderosa Pine trees.

Activities and Recreation

Haviland Lake is a small, quiet lake perfect for human-powered crafts like canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. Electric motors and wind-powered vessels are allowed, too, but the lake is wakeless.

Swimming

Haviland Lake averages 10 feet deep, with 24 feet being the deepest. Keep in mind that mountain lakes are cold, and if you decide to go swimming, there are no lifeguards.

Birding

The Ponderosa pine forest and lake attract a variety of birds to Haviland Land.

Throughout the Haviland Lake State Wildlife Area, co-managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, birders can enjoy hiking the trails to look for species such as Brown Creepers, Williamson’s Sapsuckers, kinglets, warblers, grosbeaks, and waterbirds such as grebes, ducks, herons, and egrets.

Check the eBird list for a complete list of 162 reported bird species found at the Haviland Lake area, then report your sightings.

Winter at Haviland Lake

In winter, the campground is closed, as is the road. But the area can be accessed by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

What to Pack

What to pack is determined, of course, by what adventures you plan to have. Bring groceries with you, as there are no stores or services nearby.

• Hiking day trip:
  • Bring your hiking boots, hiking poles, water, snacks, sun protection, and a camera. Consider downloading hiking maps in advance.

• Fishing trip:
  • Wear mud-friendly attire for spending the day along the shore.
  • Bring the essential gear discussed in the fishing section above, along with important items like your fishing license, food, and beverages.

• Boating adventure:
  • Your non-gas-powered boat of choice, life jackets, hats, sunscreen, water shoes, snacks, and drinks.

• Camping vacation:
  • Bring all your outdoor equipment, whether you’re tent camping or RVing it for the weekend.
  • Follow bear safety tips discussed in the camping section, like storing food in the provided food lockers and trash in the bear-safe dumpsters.
  • Tables and fire rings are provided (check current restrictions before lighting a fire).
  • Essential camping gear for a relaxing weekend may include comfy camp chairs, flashlights, cooking equipment, and a book to read while you relax among the trees.

Other items to bring along may include:

• Safety and emergency items like a first aid kit, a whistle to wear while hiking in case of an emergency, and a charged cell phone and charging cables. Having the Ten Essentials with you can make your hike safer and more enjoyable.
• Hikers may want to get paper maps of local trails and bring along a compass.
• Photographers can use a wide-angle lens for landscape photography and a telephoto to capture birds and other wildlife from a safe distance.
• Consider the weather when packing clothing and remember that in the Rocky Mountains, temperatures can change quickly. Stow rain gear in your backpack and have layers to peel off or pull on as needed.

Nearby Attractions and Day Trips from Haviland Lake

Electra Lake is a large reservoir about five miles from Haviland Lake. It is operated by the Public Service Company of Colorado. Fishing, picnicking, and boating are options here between late May and Labor Day. 

Purgatory Ski Resort is just eight miles north on Highway 550. If you want to explore the historic mining town of Silverton, it is 30 miles — about a 50-minute drive — north of Haviland Lake on Highway 550.

If you drive 42 miles from Haviland Lake on Highway 550, you’ll explore the windy Million Dollar Highway and end up at Ouray.

Camping is the only option at Haviland Lake, and the nearest hotels will be either back in Durango or north to places like Purgatory Resort or Silverton.

Rules, Regulations, and Safety Tips

Staying safe in the high mountains requires considering the weather, altitude, wildlife, and water safety. Here are some important tips:

• Follow U.S. Forest Service safety guidelines for camping, fishing, and hiking to help you stay safe. 

• Fire safety rules are essential in the forest. Don’t be the one who leaves a smoldering fire unattended while you’re out hiking or fishing. Be sure fires are allowed before starting one, and use locally obtained firewood to prevent spreading insects that can kill trees.

• Use Leave No Trace Principles to keep yourself safe while helping preserve the land and water for future generations. The seven principles include planning ahead and preparing for your outing, disposing of waste properly, minimizing campfire impacts, and respecting wildlife.

• Check these important bear safety tips to help ensure you don’t have an unfortunate encounter with a hungry bear. The U.S. Forest Service offers this bear aware information, which includes never running when you come across a bear, not feeding wildlife, and carrying bear spray.

• Let someone know where you’ll be and when you expect to be back, especially if you go hiking alone.

• Keep the high altitude in mind.
  • If you’re arriving from sea level or a much lower altitude, avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours (alcohol dehydrates you and worsens symptoms).
  • Ease into intense exercise, drink plenty of water, and eat light, easily digestible food.
  • If you experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath, move to a lower altitude.

• The weather can change quickly in the mountains.
  • Check the forecast and the sky before heading out onto the lake or trail.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and head back if conditions become unsafe.

Local Weather and What to Expect

Colorado mountain weather is changeable, from hour to hour and day to day, so it’s important to check forecasts and be prepared. Use a reliable weather app to monitor conditions.

• Winter snows come early, sometimes in September, and may continue through May.
• Summer afternoons can be windy and include dramatic thunderstorms. 
• Fall days cool off quickly as the sun drops behind the mountains earlier.
• The high altitude means that the UV index will be high, so sun-protective clothing and sunscreen are essential.
• Pack light layers and during the colder months, bring warm headgear, gloves, and socks. 

Here’s what you may expect from monthly temperatures based on 10 years of Haviland Lake weather averages. Note that there is usually a 20-degree difference between the daily low and high.

Month	Low Temperature	High Temperature
January	12ºF	33ºF
February	16ºF	36ºF
March	22ºF	44ºF
April	30ºF	54ºF
May	37ºF	64ºF
June	48ºF	78ºF
July	54ºF	81ºF
August	52ºF	79ºF
September	46ºF	72ºF
October	34ºF	59ºF
November	24ºF	46ºF
December	14ºF	35ºF

Photography Guide

Shutterbugs can find some beautiful opportunities for Haviland Lake photography. The Golden Hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, brings warm light reflecting over the lake, making it the best time for photography.

Birds and wildlife are generally more active in the morning, giving photographers the chance to capture images of the diverse range of animals found here.

Your choice of gear depends on your goals, but keep in mind that the best camera is the one you always have with you.

For much of what you want to photograph, your cell phone camera may be exactly what you need. Try a variety of settings, including panoramas, to take in the stunning scenery.

Wildlife photographers, however, will want a camera with telephoto options so they can get “up close and personal” with birds, squirrels, and other animals from a safe distance.

If you’re hiking with a heavy telephoto lens, a monopod that doubles as a hiking stick may be handy.

For landscape and lake photography, remember the Rule of Thirds, which divides images into nine equal sections. Place the horizon or your main subject along one of those imaginary lines to keep it away from a more static centered position. (Some cameras have a setting that places the grid in your viewfinder to help with composition.)

Get creative with your camera and shoot up the trunk of a tall Ponderosa Pine, or get low on the ground to get an ant’s-eye view of the lake. Have fun and make your photos stand out from the rest!

Haviland Lake FAQ

Is Haviland Lake open year-round?

The Haviland Lake Campground, operated by the U.S. Forest Service, is only open from May through September. However, the State Wildlife Area is accessible year-round, although you may need snowshoes in the winter.

Do I need a fishing license?

Anglers aged 16 and older must have a Colorado fishing license. Those aged 18 and above must also, once each year, purchase an Annual Habitat Stamp.

Can I bring my boat?

Electric, sail, and hand-powered boats are allowed at Haviland Lake, which is a no-wake lake. There is a boat ramp on the south end of the lake.

Are pets allowed?

Leashed pets are allowed in the campground and on the trails.

What are the camping fees?

Campsite fees at Haviland Lake Campground range from $32 to $98. The campground is open from early May through late September, depending on conditions.

Is the water safe for swimming?

Swimming is allowed at Haviland Lake, although there is no designated swimming area and there are no lifeguards. Water will be cold, especially early in the year. In addition, the bank may be muddy. Many visitors enjoy swimming and fishing at the area near the boat dock outside the campground.

Make Haviland Lake Your Next Colorado Adventure

Haviland Lake in Southwest Colorado makes a great addition to your Durango-area vacation. It’s about 30 minutes north of Durango and can be easily reached from Highway 550.

Enjoy a day trip for boating, hiking, or trout fishing, or extend your stay by camping at the Haviland Lake Campground.

Take a break from the daily grind and immerse yourself in the San Juan National Forest for mountain fishing and alpine camping.