Black Bears
There is a healthy population of Black Bears in the forests surrounding Wellington Lake, so proper food storage is very important. At night, or while away from your camp, store all food in your car. All trash and recycling should be disposed off in the bear proof dumpsters located in the Brookie Lot.
Click here for bear safety info from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Click here for lion safety info from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Mountain Lions
Occasionally mountain lions are spotted at Wellington Lake. Mountain lions are very solitary animals and are rarely seen by humans. They are most active during the night hours from dusk to dawn. To avoid interactions with mountain lions, hike in groups, avoid activities at night, and make noise. If you come in contact with a lion, appear as large as you can, back away slowly, and throw objects if it does not back down. The chances of encountering a mountain lion are very very slim.
Elk and Deer
A trip to Wellington Lake is a great opportunity to view and photograph large fauna like elk and deer. In the fall, you can often hear the Bull Elk bugling in the campground; what an amazing camping experience!
There is no hunting allowed on the property.
Birds
Wellington Lake is an amazing location for birders! We commonly see birds of prey like Osprey and Bald Eagles hunting fish from the lake. Other exciting species include: Broad-tailed Hummingbirds, Dark-eyed Juncos, Mountain Bluebirds, Northern Flickers, Western Tanagers, Mountain Chickadees, Hairy Woodpeckers, House Wrens, Golden-crowned Kinglets, and Lincoln’s Sparrows!
Insects and Reptiles
Flies- During the summer, the black, biting flies can be very intense. Pack long sleeved, loose fitting clothing and bring along bug spray for yourself and your dog.
Ticks- There are ticks in the area, make sure to check yourself and your pups.
Mosquitoes- Surprisingly, there are very few mosquitos at the lake. It may still be a good idea to pack your bug spray to ward off the flies.
Spiders- Black widow spiders are known to live in the area, but are rarely found in the campground.
Snakes- There are no poisonous or dangerous snakes at Wellington Lake.
