Fishing the Dream Stream with Kids: A Peaceful Colorado Trip
Fishing on the Dream Stream in Colorado is one of our family’s favorite kinds of travel!
Located along the South Platte River, the Dream Stream flows between Spinney Mountain Reservoir and Eleven Mile Reservoir and passes through Charlie Meyers State Wildlife Area. It’s known for clear water, wide-open space, and a pace that naturally slows you down — which makes it a great option for families fishing with kids.
Why the Dream Stream Works Well with Kids
Fishing here doesn’t require too much planning, just someone in the family who loves to fish! There is room to spread out, walk along the banks, and let kids explore without feeling rushed. The water is cold and clear, the landscape is open, and the access points are easy to manage.
Aside from snacks and fishing gear, we didn’t need much. The day unfolded naturally — casting lines, watching the water, and taking breaks as needed.
Fish You’ll Find in the Dream Stream
The Dream Stream is known for its healthy trout population, including:
Rainbow trout
Brown trout
Cutthroat trout
In the fall, kokanee salmon move through as well, which can be exciting to spot even if you’re not actively fishing for them. The clarity of the water makes it easier for kids to see fish and understand how they move, which adds to the experience even when the bites are slow.
Early mornings and quiet evenings tended to feel the calmest and most comfortable for fishing with kids.
The Drive Is Part of the Experience
One of the best parts of this trip wasn’t just the fishing — it was the drive between spots. Quiet roads, open land, and big Colorado views made moving from place to place feel unrushed. Even when we weren’t actively fishing, the scenery carried the day.
It’s the kind of drive where you don’t mind pulling over, lingering a bit, or changing plans on the fly.
Where to Stay Near the Dream Stream
There are plenty of places to stay in the area, especially if you want to keep things flexible. We found lots of great VRBO options, along with cabins and lodges near Lake George and Hartsel that keep drive times short.
Staying nearby made mornings slower and evenings easier — a big plus when traveling with kids.
A Simple Colorado Trip Worth Repeating
Fishing the Dream Stream felt peaceful and easygoing. Cold water, wide-open space, minimal planning, and time spent together outdoors. It’s the kind of Colorado trip that doesn’t ask for much — and gives a lot back.
If you’re curious about this stretch of the South Platte River — the fishing, the drives, and where to stay — it’s a trip that works well for families looking to slow down and spend time outside together.
