Ridgway State Park
A scenic Colorado state park centered around a vast reservoir, offering boating, swimming, hiking, and camping with stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for water sports
Ridgway State Park
Best Time
Ideal for water sports
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic Colorado state park centered around a vast reservoir, offering boating, swimming, hiking, and camping with stunning mountain views.
"A true Colorado gem! This park is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend the day, well worth the fee."
🎯 Book Campgrounds Early
Popular sites like Elk Ridge fill up fast, especially for lake views. Reserve your spot in advance!
🛶 Water Access Tips
Windsurfing can be tricky; ask rangers about the best beach access points for your activity.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Reservoir
Ridgway State Park Reservoir
A stunning centerpiece for boating, swimming, and water sports with breathtaking mountain backdrops.
Elk Ridge Campground Views
Elk Ridge Campground
Camp sites on the outer loop offer amazing views of the lake and surrounding San Juan mountains.
Uncompahgre River Fishing
Uncompahgre River
Peaceful fishing opportunities along the river, a serene escape for anglers.
Accessible Paddleboarding
Reservoir Beach
Enjoy the water with free Fiesta Sol paddleboard rentals for individuals with disabilities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservoir Access & Activities
Camping & Connectivity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Campgrounds Early
Popular sites like Elk Ridge fill up fast, especially for lake views. Reserve your spot in advance!
🛶 Water Access Tips
Windsurfing can be tricky; ask rangers about the best beach access points for your activity.
♿ Free Paddleboard Rental
Colorado residents with disabilities can access free paddleboard rentals. Remember life vests!
🚶♀️ Hike to the Reservoir
Steep trails lead down to the reservoir from campgrounds, offering great exercise and views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Campgrounds Early
Popular sites like Elk Ridge fill up fast, especially for lake views. Reserve your spot in advance!
🛶 Water Access Tips
Windsurfing can be tricky; ask rangers about the best beach access points for your activity.
♿ Free Paddleboard Rental
Colorado residents with disabilities can access free paddleboard rentals. Remember life vests!
🚶♀️ Hike to the Reservoir
Steep trails lead down to the reservoir from campgrounds, offering great exercise and views.
📱 Excellent Cell Service
Stay connected with reliable cell service throughout most of the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ridgway State Park for its stunning natural beauty, featuring a picturesque reservoir set against the backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere, excellent amenities, and a variety of recreational activities, making it a true Colorado gem. Some campers noted that campsites are not directly on the lake, and windsurfing conditions can be challenging.
"Visited this park for a few hours early October. This is an amazing find we just happened across as we we're heading toward Montrose from Ouray.
Excellent views with lake, mountains, rolling hills all in one shot.
Stopped by the visitor's center. Staff there was top notch answering questions about the park, but also about various Colorado sites.
While the park is not huge, it is an exemplary example of why Colorado does tourism right!"
Bill Ferrel
"We stayed at the Elk Ridge campground. Views from sites on the outer loop are amazing. Our site (123) came with a neat fire pit and grill. The campground was quiet. A steep trail leads down to the reservoir and more trails below. Cell service is excellent. Laundry is on site, with dryers running for one hour on $2. The town of Ridgway is just 5 miles away, and Ouray and Telluride are within beautiful drives."
Jack Reerink
"Beautiful facility hoped to windsurf the lake.
Camp sites are not directly located on the lake. Boat ramp surrounded by high bluffs in a narrow bay making windsurfing challenging. Ranger recommended the access down the road where cars can drive upon the beach. Unfortunately fall low water limited use of that area."
James Wood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ridgway State Park is conveniently located between Montrose and Ouray. If coming from Montrose, head west on US-50 and then south on CO-550. If coming from Ouray, head north on CO-550. The park entrance is well-marked.
Yes, Ridgway State Park offers RV camping with easy access to many sites. Some sites provide hookups, and there are dump stations available. Check specific campground details for RV suitability.
The charming town of Ridgway is just about 5 miles from the park, offering amenities, dining, and lodging options. Ouray and Telluride are also within beautiful driving distances.
Yes, there is a day-use fee, typically around $10, which is well worth it for access to the lake and trails. Camping fees are separate and vary by campground.
Yes, rangers often recommend specific beach access points where vehicles can drive onto the beach, though fall low water levels might limit this. Always check current conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ridgway State Park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like the visitor center may have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date information.
A day-use fee is typically charged, around $10 per vehicle, which grants access to the park's amenities and recreational areas. Camping fees are additional and vary by site type and season.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer) and for popular campgrounds like Elk Ridge. You can usually book through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife reservation system.
Colorado residents with disabilities can apply for a Columbine Disability Pass, which may offer benefits for park entry. Annual state park passes are also available for frequent visitors.
The most reliable way to book a campsite is through the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife reservation portal online. This allows you to view availability, site photos, and secure your spot in advance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy boating, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, hiking, birding, and camping. The reservoir is the main hub for water activities, while trails offer scenic exploration.
Yes, Ridgway State Park offers over 14 miles of trails, including the Enchanted Mesa Trail and various paths around the reservoir and through the surrounding landscape.
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas of the reservoir. The water is clear and refreshing, making it a popular spot during warmer months.
Yes, you can rent paddleboards and other watercraft directly at the lake. Special free paddleboard rentals are available for individuals with disabilities.
The park is a haven for birding year-round. You might also spot other local wildlife in the surrounding natural areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Ridgway State Park. However, the nearby town of Ridgway offers various dining options, from casual cafes to local eateries.
Absolutely! There are designated picnic areas with tables, and many visitors enjoy picnicking with scenic views of the reservoir and mountains. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Ridgway, Colorado, offers a range of dining experiences. You can find local cafes, American cuisine, and other options to suit your taste.
Yes, you can find grocery stores in the town of Ridgway to stock up on supplies for your camping trip or picnic.
For camping, pack non-perishable items, easy-to-cook meals, snacks, and plenty of water. Grilling is popular, so consider items that can be cooked over a campfire or grill.
📸 📸 Photography
The reservoir with its mountain backdrop is iconic. Look for viewpoints along the trails and from the Elk Ridge Campground for stunning shots. The 'Caribbean Blue' water can be mesmerizing.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography, casting a warm glow on the mountains and water. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant blue of the reservoir.
Capture the reflections on the water, the vastness of the reservoir against the San Juan Mountains, and the unique colors of the landscape, especially during golden hour.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife guidelines and any specific park rules regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many campgrounds have amenities like fire pits and grills, perfect for family cookouts. The trails offer gentle options for little legs, and the chance to spot local wildlife can be exciting for children. Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone has a life vest for water activities. The visitor center staff can also provide helpful information for family-friendly exploration.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
Some walk-in campsites are situated directly on the river, providing convenient access for early morning or late evening fishing sessions. When fishing in the park, be sure to check the Colorado fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses. The reservoir can yield a variety of fish, and the river offers a different angling experience. Remember to practice catch and release if you're not planning to keep your catch, and always be mindful of the environment.
♿ Visitors with Disabilities
This initiative promotes an inclusive experience on the water. Additionally, the park offers accessible trails and facilities, ensuring that visitors with mobility challenges can also enjoy the natural beauty. Colorado residents with disabilities can inquire about the Columbine Disability Pass for potential benefits. When planning your visit, it's always a good idea to contact the park directly to confirm the accessibility of specific trails, campgrounds, or facilities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Ridgway State Park
When choosing a campsite, consider your priorities. If panoramic views are key, aim for the higher elevation sites in Elk Ridge. If direct river access for fishing is your goal, explore the walk-in options. Pa Co Chu Puk Campground and Ridgeway Campground (also known as Ridgway Campground) are other options to consider, each offering unique settings. It's always advisable to book your campsite in advance, especially during the busy summer months, through the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife reservation system.
Water Activities on the Reservoir
While the reservoir is a prime spot for water sports, accessing it for specific activities like windsurfing can present challenges. The boat ramp area is surrounded by high bluffs, creating a narrow bay that can make windsurfing difficult. Rangers often recommend alternative beach access points where vehicles can drive closer to the water, though seasonal low water levels might affect usability.
Hiking and Trails
+1Many trails provide excellent vantage points for photography, with opportunities to capture the stunning interplay of the reservoir, the San Juan Mountains, and the surrounding Colorado landscape. Some trails lead directly from campgrounds down to the reservoir, offering convenient access for a quick dip or a fishing excursion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit