As soon as the winter snows are gone, the folks in Burlington and other eastern Colorado communities head to the beach, and that means Bonny Lake State Park, 23 miles north of Burlington on U.S. 385, then east on county roads 2 or 3 for about 1 1/2 miles (tel. 970/354-7306). Built as a flood control project in 1951, the reservoir contains 1,900 surface acres of relatively warm water, perfect for swimming, water-skiing, windsurfing, and fishing. The 5,000-acre park provides opportunities to see wildlife, with some 250 species of birds, mule and whitetail deer, coyotes, badgers, muskrats, bobcats, beavers, and rabbits. The daily entrance fee is $5 per vehicle.

The lake has two swimming areas (no lifeguards) and four campgrounds with a total of 190 campsites ($12-$22). Some sites have electric hookups, and several are handicapped accessible. Facilities include restrooms, pay showers, picnic areas, a self-guided nature trail (not handicapped accessible), and a fish-cleaning station. Fishing is good for walleye, northern pike, and a variety of bass.

Boat launching ramps are available, and the Bonny Dam Marina (tel. 970/354-7339) sells fuel, groceries, and boating and fishing supplies. The marina also rents boats, water level permitting. Call for current rates.

If you're traveling this way in winter, stop by for an afternoon of cross-country skiing, ice skating, or ice fishing, but don't forget your long underwear -- winter winds are bone chilling out here on the plains. During winter, electric and water are available in the campgrounds, and there are vault toilets, but the showers and flush toilets are shut down.

If you're passing through town and looking for some quick R & R, a good place to take the kids is the Burlington Swimming Pool, located at the south end of Mike Lounge Drive. Open afternoons and evenings during the summer, the city-run pool has a new 175-foot flume slide. There's also a wading pool with a sloping entrance and a special slide just for younger kids. Admission costs $2.50 for adults and $1.50 for children 2 to 17. Another good family stop in Burlington is Outback Territory Park Playground, which covers a full block between 15th and 16th streets and Railroad and Martin avenues. It's got a marvelous playground (designed by Burlington Elementary School children) and delightful picnic areas with lots of shade. Admission is free. For additional information, contact the Colorado Welcome Center in Burlington or the Burlington Chamber of Commerce.