Public meeting set for Sweitzer Lake State Park plan

5/21/2024

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has developed a new master plan for Sweitzer Lake State Park and invites the community to a public meeting scheduled for May 30.

The open house to discuss the park plan will be held from 3:30 to 6 p.m. May 30 at the Delta Public Library's community room.

"We will be showcasing the future plans for expansion of the park," said Park Manager Scott Rist. "We will have drawings and renderings of the expansion, and we look forward to being able to host community members to come look at the plans and have their questions answered."

Planning for the park expansion has taken place throughout the last year following CPW acquisitions of properties that previously neighbored the park. Through these acquisitions, CPW has grown the park property from 314 acres to 593 acres, including three additional ponds.

CPW has identified areas within the new park boundary that are suitable for development as well as areas that will be left in their natural state to support wildlife habitat and pollinators.

Included in the plan are the additions of four campground loops on the southwest end of the park, a recreation area that includes a ropes course, an archery range, a recreational pond, several wetlands for wildlife and a new visitor center that also features an amphitheater.

"There are several upgrades to the current park and some great ideas for the new parts of the park," Rist said. "We are excited to show these plans to the public, as this expansion will provide camping, more day-use areas and allow for more water sports at the park."

Sweitzer Lake State Park, located near the town of Delta, is surrounded by mountain views. The park has provided year-round visitation since 1954. From the park, visitors are treated to views of the Grand Mesa, West Elk and San Juan ranges. Originally built solely for recreational use, Sweitzer Lake State Park features a 137-surface acre reservoir (https://www.fishexplorer.com/co/lakedet.asp?lid=2247). The warm and calm waters make the lake great for water skiing and wake boarding.

Photo: CPW photos/Dustin Doskocil