
Forest Lakes is the largest subdivision in La Plata County and one of the top places to live in the Bayfield area for those seeking space, privacy, and value. Located about 12 miles north of Bayfield, this established mountain community offers a mix of lot sizes, abundant natural beauty, and essential utilities—making it attractive to homebuyers looking for a balance of rural lifestyle and convenience.
The lower section of Forest Lakes features larger residential lots with access to a central sewer system, while the upper section—where most homes are located—offers quarter- to full-acre lots with individual septic systems. Thanks to the recent installation of natural gas throughout the subdivision, many homeowners have seen a noticeable drop in heating costs. All homes are served by a central water system.
Living in Forest Lakes means you’re surrounded by tall pines, varied topography, and beautiful foliage. Large lots offer ample space between neighbors, and there are no architectural restrictions—though that can lead to some inconsistencies in property upkeep. Still, the majority of homes are well-maintained and the area has a low noise level, adding to its appeal.
Getting to town is easy, with Bayfield just a 10–20 minute drive depending on your location within the community. Roads are unpaved but generally maintained by the county. The proximity to public lands and hiking trails—and being only 15 minutes from Vallecito Lake—adds strong recreational value. For families, schools are about 15–25 minutes away, and gas stations or convenience stores are a similar distance.
Homes here were primarily built between 1970 and 2000, and while not all offer views, around 30% of properties enjoy partial mountain or forest views. With moderate to heavy snowfall in winter and natural landscaping throughout, Forest Lakes offers a true mountain living experience. Combined with relatively affordable pricing and appreciation potential due to its location and amenities, Forest Lakes is a solid choice for those looking to maximize their investment while enjoying the peace and space of Colorado living.
Situated north of Bayfield, this subdivision comprises five phases, making it the county's most extensive development. It boasts various man-made amenities including a lake, central water and sewer, natural gas, trash service, and a nearby mail station at the entrance. Each phase offers distinct lot sizes and home types, averaging around 1 acre.
The Bayfield School District includes four public schools serving the community. Young learners begin at Bayfield Primary School for kindergarten, while Bayfield Intermediate and Bayfield Middle School serve students in grades 6 through 8. Bayfield High School is known for its strong sense of community and collaborative academic environment.
For early childhood education, families have access to Bayfield Early Education Programs, a local non-profit preschool offering quality care and learning for young children.
Looking at Bayfield real estate? Every search starts with a trusted real estate agent. Contact our team of experienced local realtors today.
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Build your dream home on this beautiful one-acre treed lot in Bayfield, Colorado, where much of the hard work has already been done. This gently cleared parcel offers a r...
Discover the possibilities on this 1-acre, peaceful, mountain property, located near the top of the Forest Lakes community. It features a relatively flat, buildable area ...
Nestled among the tall pines of Southwest Colorado at a 7650' elevation, this 1,857 sq. ft. custom home is situated on a gently sloping, south-facing 1-acre lot. The prop...
Absolutely Superb Location in Forest Lakes. This home is NOT in a high fire zone as far as insurance. Level 1/4 acre fenced corner lot. Easy access to CR 501. Close to...
Discover the perfect setting for your mountain home with these two adjacent 1-acre lots in Forest Lakes, offered together as a single purchase. Surrounded by mature ponde...
Tucked among towering pines on 1.13 private acres, this 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with a bonus room offers the kind of quiet, unhurried living that's increasingly hard t...
Built in 2021 and extensively remodeled in 2025 and 2026, this contemporary 1,606-square-foot home sits on a private one-acre lot in Forest Lakes. The remodel included a ...
This 1 acre lot is located at the top of Forest Lakes section 3 filled with trees wildlife and privacy. This wooded lot with close access to the San Juan National Forest ...
A little more elbow room, a little more mountain air, and still close to home. This 1.05-acre Forest Lakes lot offers a manageable way to own a wooded piece of Colorado, ...
Brand new contemporary home in the beautiful Forest Lakes neighborhood newly constructed as of August 19th of 2026. This Karsten two bedroom, two bath home has a single l...
Build your Colorado dream home on this one-acre lot in the desirable Forest Lakes community. Located in the lower section of the subdivision, the property offers views of...
Build your Colorado mountain retreat on this beautiful 1.10-acre homesite in the desirable Forest Lakes community. Surrounded by mature ponderosa pines, the gently slopin...
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled mountain retreat in the highly desirable Forest Lakes community. Set on a peaceful one-acre lot surrounded by towering Ponderosa pin...
Located on a beautifully wooded lot in Forest Lakes, this home is just 15 minutes to Bayfield, and just a few minutes from Lake Simpatico, which is a private lake for thi...
Nestled on a private wooded 1-acre lot, this charming single-level mountain retreat blends rustic warmth with modern day comfort. As you enter the home, you're greeted by...
Welcome to 125 Meadowbrook Drive in the desirable Forest Lakes subdivision! This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath modular home, built in 2001, offers 1,404 square feet o...
BUILDERS LOT! This parcel is in a great location in the subdivision and an easy build lot. It also borders the greenbelt for added privacy. No trees to clear and a drive...
Wonderful Mountain Lots for Sale. Forest Lakes (3) is a beautiful alpine wooded subdivision adjacent to the San Juan National Forest and close to Vallecito Lake. Three tr...
Wonderful Mountain Lots for Sale. Forest Lakes (3) is a beautiful alpine wooded subdivision adjacent to the San Juan National Forest and close to Vallecito Lake. Three tr...
Wonderful Mountain Lots for Sale. Forest Lakes (3) is a beautiful alpine wooded subdivision adjacent to the San Juan National Forest and close to Vallecito Lake. Three tr...
Welcome to 32 Cub Court, a beautifully crafted new construction home in the sought-after Forest Lakes community. Thoughtfully designed with both comfort and functionality...
A rare opportunity to build your Colorado dream home on one of the best available lots in Forest Lakes. Located in the lower section of the subdivision, this parcel on de...
Rare opportunity to own 5 contiguous lots (Lots 54, 55, 56, 57, and 58) being sold together as one expansive parcel in Forest Lakes Unit 3! If you are looking for the ult...
Bring your fishing poles, paddle boards and canoes to this corner-lot location, just a short walk from Lake Simpatico. This 3-bedroom home combines functional living spac...
Discover this amazing mountain home tucked away on a quiet road and situated on a rare two acre lot in Forest Lakes. The spacious main level features vaulted T&G walls an...
Lovely views of the Pine River Valley and abundant wildlife surround this beautifully designed retreat. The expansive living and dining area is filled with natural light,...
Nestled among towering pines in Forest Lakes this beautifully sloping lot offers the perfect canvas to build the mountain retreat you've always dreamed of. With natural e...
Welcome to this beautifully updated single-level home in the Forest Lakes subdivision, set on just over an acre surrounded by towering pines. Built in 2003 and thoughtful...
Move-in ready and pre-inspected, this Forest Lakes home offers buyers something increasingly difficult to find in today's market: a home where much of the work has alread...
Build lot in a great location within Forest Lakes Subdivision. This property features mature pine trees, mountain views, and is conveniently close to the lake and park. U...
Surrounded by towering pines in the Forest Lakes community, this spacious home offers privacy, flexibility, and the peaceful Colorado lifestyle buyers are looking for—ju...
Beautiful, wooded homesite with a gentle slope—ideal for building your mountain getaway or full-time residence. Enjoy the quiet, high-pines setting and peaceful surroundi...
Must-see to appreciate this custom-built home. Single level living space with kitchen, living room, and primary bedroom on the main floor. Walk out to beautiful deck and ...
One -acre wooded lot with towering ponderosa pines located near over 750 acres of BLM land at the end of Timber Drive. Excellent privacy an abundance of wildlife and endl...
Located in the Forest Lakes subdivision in Bayfield, Colorado, this treed lot sits on a quiet cul-de-sac with minimal traffic and is surrounded by newer, upscale homes. T...
This property has been fully fire-mitigated and insured. This lovely home is designed for flexibility, comfort, and room to grow. Situated on a full, usable 1-acre lot, t...
Build your dream home on this beautiful 1-acre lot in Phase 1 of Forest Lakes, offering the perfect blend of convenience and mountain living. Surrounded by mature pine tr...
Beautiful lot with views in Forest Lakes. At just over an acre and near the end of a quiet cul de sac, this serene parcel is ready for you to build your dream CO home. Th...
Beautiful 1 acre lot on a quiet cul-de-sac with a driveway with a level building site. There are majestic Ponderosa Pines and easy access into the San Juan national fores...
Peaceful 1-Acre Lot in Forest Lakes – Gently Sloped with Beautiful Views Discover serenity on this gently sloped 1-acre parcel in Unit 2 of Forest Lakes, nestled among m...
Welcome to a fantastic opportunity in Forest Lakes! This is three lots together that total almost .9 of an acre. This property is ready for your vision. There are many ni...
1.25 acre lot with septic already installed, driveway roughed in, and building site partially cleared! Enjoy the tranquility of beautiful towering pines and long views of...
Beautiful quiet 1 acre lot in Forest Lakes. Building site has already been cleared and flattened and corners were marked by surveyor. Electric and natural gas are in the ...
Great opportunity to buy this view 1+ acre lot with a paid water tap! This lot has a lot of possibilities with natural gas to the lot line. Buyer will need to install a s...
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