This mountain jewel has about 40 surface acres with a depth of 70 feet. It is stocked with rainbow trout, but lucky anglers also catch the occasional lunker brown (16 lbs!) or cutthroat trout. The Lodge At San Isabel is located near the lake shore. It is a family owned eatery that's a favorite of the local folk and travelers as well. It offers excellent dining in a real mountain setting; as well as rustic cabins available for rent. There's a quaint gift shop with unusual souvenirs. You can buy supplies, rent a paddleboat, or park your RV. The other local business, The Pine Lodge, provides cozy cabins along Willow Creek.

Behind Lake Isabel, there's a remote National Forest Campground scattered along the banks of the Saint Charles River. This stream kicks up white water as it rambles down through a long mountain valley into the lake. Comfortable RV parking is available on its banks, or primitive tent sites accommodate the more adventuresome. Day picnics are also welcome.

Behind Lake Isabel, The Greenhorn Wilderness Area extends southwest into the huge San Isabel National forest. These remote mountains are home to a variety of wildlife. Bighorn sheep live above timberline (Greenhorn Mountain is almost 13,000 feet). Elk, deer, bear, and other animals roam the lush mountainsides nourished by ample winter snows and summer rains (they're named the Wet Mountains!). This rugged mountain country is relatively unexplored! Yet, it's still close enough for easy access.