Prospect Ponds Natural Area#
Trail Status
Description#
There is more than ponds at Prospect Ponds Natural Area- a section of the Poudre River runs through the site and there are trails, picnic tables and fishing. Anglers catch species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish. More fishing details are listed here. Prospect Ponds is also a nice place for a lunchtime walk or picnic.
Over 100 species of birds have been seen at Prospect Ponds, including black-crowned night-herons, bald eagles, Swainsons hawks, great horned owls, wood ducks, and hooded mergansers. Mammals include mule deer, foxes and bats.
Prospect Ponds is co-managed by Fort Collins Utilities and the Natural Areas Department for flood control, water quality improvement and wildlife habitat.
Photos#
Melannie in grass
Melannie in grass
Hours#
5:00 a.m. 11:00 p.m.
Plan Your Visit#
Popular times.
Directions#
There are two parking lots, both off Sharp Point Drive, at approximately 2108 Sharp Point Drive, Fort Collins. Prospect Ponds Natural Area has no entrance fee or parking fee.
Activities and Events#
- Find free educational activities and events year-round on the Events Calendar. Activities and events in June-October are also listed in the Natural Areas Explorer.
- Learn about special events and activities each month by subscribing to the Natural Areas e-newsletter.
- Check out the Natural Areas Learning Library for self-guided activities.
Related Information#
- Know before you go safety and recreation information.
- Poudre River Natural Areas Management Plan
- Special people have volunteered to take an active role in the stewardship of natural areas by doing monthly litter pick-ups. You can join the fun and adopt a natural area, too!
- Bird Checklist- Courtesy of Fort Collins Audubon Society
- Prospect Ponds Natural Area is an Important Bird Area, learn more here.