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.
Nestled within the heavily wooded, alpine setting of the Forest Lakes community in Bayfield, Colorado. This 1.09-acre lot in Forest Lakes provides an ideal blend of manag...
Incredible opportunity to own a rare 3.580 acres residential lot in the highly sought-after Forest Lakes community! Located at 182 Forest Lakes Drive, Bayfield, CO 81122,...
Two adjacent lots near the top of Forest Lakes create a 3+ acre, private homesite. The parcels feature tall pines, mountain views, and multiple potential building sites. ...
Completed in April 2026 and situated near the top of Forest Lakes, this beautiful 2,770-square-foot custom home with 3 bedrooms plus an office, 3 bathrooms, and an oversi...
Discover cozy Colorado living in this single-level log home in Forest Lakes. Situated on a spacious, full acre lot near the top of the subdivision, you can fully enjoy yo...
Rare opportunity to own a beautiful 1.03-acre homesite bordering public land at the quiet end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable Forest Lakes community. With public land di...
This wonderful, light and bright home backs to a ton of open space and is just steps from Lake Simpatico. The house is south-facing for tons of sun and natural light. Thi...
Move right in and enjoy easy living near the entrance of Forest Lakes. This well-maintained home has a bright, open main living area with generous windows, and a brand-ne...
1.25 and 1 acre lots sold together with septic already installed, driveway roughed in, and building site partially cleared! Enjoy the tranquility of beautiful towering pi...
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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 ...
SELLER IS OFFERING $7500.00 CREDIT TO BUYER TO BUY DOWN INTEREST RATE ON THIS SUPERB HOME AND LOCATION...Lake access, nearby trails, and a private guest suite with its ow...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
Price Improvement! Now listed at $201 per square foot! Surrounded by towering pines in the Forest Lakes community, this spacious home offers privacy, flexibility, and ...
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...
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...
If you came to Colorado for trails, wildlife, and room to pursue your passions, this property delivers. Imagine starting your day with coffee on the deck as deer and wild...
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...
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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