About Awake Palmer Lake
The Palmer Lake Restoration Project — serving our community since 1995.
30 Years of Roots, Restoration, and Community
Awake Palmer Lake (APL) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to restoring, preserving, and enhancing Palmer Lake and the beauty of the surrounding parkland. Officially known as the Palmer Lake Restoration Project, APL was founded in 1995 as a funding group committed to the improvement and sustainability of Palmer Lake.
Over the decades, APL has grown well beyond the shoreline. We are an integral part of Palmer Lake — not only making lasting improvements to the lake and its surrounding parkland, but actively working to strengthen the economic and cultural vitality of our town. We believe a thriving lake and a thriving community go hand in hand.
APL is a 100% volunteer-run organization. We work in close partnership with the Town of Palmer Lake and other local nonprofits to host community events and fundraisers that drive visitors to local businesses, celebrate our town's character, and provide fun, accessible programming for residents of all ages.
From restoring the lake's natural beauty to building pickleball courts, funding public infrastructure, and commissioning community art — everything APL does is rooted in one shared belief: Palmer Lake is worth fighting for.
Support the MissionRestoration
Restoring and preserving the natural beauty of Palmer Lake and its surrounding parkland for generations to come.
Community
Partnering with the Town and local nonprofits to host events that bring residents, businesses, and visitors together.
Economic Growth
Driving business to local shops and restaurants through recreational events and cultural programming for all ages.
Stewardship
Operating as a 501(c)(3) with transparency, accountability, and a long-term commitment to Palmer Lake.
30 Years of Impact
From a small group of concerned residents to a cornerstone of the Palmer Lake community — here's how we got here.
Palmer Lake Restoration Project Founded
A group of passionate Palmer Lake residents and community leaders formally established the Palmer Lake Restoration Project — a nonprofit funding group with one clear purpose: improve and sustain Palmer Lake for the people of Palmer Lake, Colorado.
Expanding Beyond the Shoreline
APL recognized that a healthy lake goes hand-in-hand with a healthy town. The mission expanded to include economic and cultural vitality — hosting events and building partnerships designed to bring visitors to local shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Community Events Take Root
APL began growing its signature event calendar, including the .5 (yes, point 5) K Race — a beloved, tongue-in-cheek community run that draws hundreds of participants and has become a Palmer Lake tradition. Events like these fund restoration work while celebrating what makes this town special.
Public Bathroom Facility Completed
After years of advocacy and fundraising, APL completed construction of a public bathroom facility on the west side of the lake — a practical but meaningful improvement that makes the park more welcoming and accessible for every visitor.
Pickleball Courts Open
APL funded and opened professional-grade pickleball courts on the west side of the lake, free and open to all. The courts quickly became one of the most-used public recreation spaces in Palmer Lake, drawing players of all ages year-round.
Art, Culture & the Next Chapter
APL is actively fundraising for two community art installations: the "Feed the Troll" sculpture under the pedestrian bridge (by artist Jodie Bliss) and the Train Art Project — decorative cars on the bridge that celebrate Palmer Lake's heritage. America's 250th birthday celebration at the lake is also on the calendar for July 4th.
How We Make an Impact
Lake & Park Restoration
Our core work is the ongoing restoration and enhancement of Palmer Lake and its surrounding parkland — from water quality initiatives to shoreline vegetation, park infrastructure, and public amenities.
Community Events
From the beloved .5 (yes, point 5) K Race to multi-sport events like the TRI Lakes SmoKIN Showdown & Palmer Paddle — we organize events that are fun, inclusive, and raise critical funds for restoration projects.
Economic & Cultural Growth
Every event, installation, and improvement we fund draws visitors to Palmer Lake — putting feet in local businesses and keeping our small-town economy healthy. We invest in art, culture, and recreation because they make Palmer Lake a place worth visiting.
Join the Movement
There are many ways to get involved — volunteer, donate, attend events, or simply spread the word.