Rifle Gap State Park
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Rifle Gap State Park

4.6
·354 reviews·Rifle, United States

A serene reservoir park offering camping, fishing, boating, and water sports amidst the stunning Colorado Rockies.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters for water sports

CrowdMedium
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Rifle Gap State Park

Rifle Gap State Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters for water sports

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene reservoir park offering camping, fishing, boating, and water sports amidst the stunning Colorado Rockies.

4.6
(354 reviews)

"Cleanliness, photoworthy views, and ample space make Rifle Gap State Park a breathtaking camping environment."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Accessing Rifle Falls

Follow GPS to Rifle Mountain Park, look for the kiosk, and drive to Kopers Trailhead. Spikes are a must for icy trails!

💧 Water Levels Vary

Water levels at Rifle Gap can be lower at the end of the season, affecting boating. Check conditions before you go.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rifle Gap Reservoir

Rifle Gap Reservoir

The main body of water

A long, narrow reservoir with stunning water colors that shift from deep blue to turquoise and green.

Triple Waterfalls

Triple Waterfalls

Rifle Falls State Park (nearby)

Three magnificent waterfalls cascading side-by-side, a truly breathtaking natural spectacle.

Ice Caves

Ice Caves

Rifle Mountain Park (nearby, winter)

Explore enchanting ice caves during winter months, a unique and magical experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Campsite Early

Rifle Gap State Park's 30 campsites, especially those with amenities like hot showers, fill up fast, particularly on weekends and during good weather. Consider arriving early or exploring dispersed camping options nearby if you can't secure a spot.

Combine with Rifle Falls

Don't miss Rifle Falls State Park, just a few miles north. It offers stunning triple waterfalls and ice caves (in winter), making it a perfect addition to your Rifle Gap visit.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters for water sports
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring/Early Summer
Why
Lush greenery & pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter (for ice caves)
Why
Unique ice formations
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

OMG este lugar está muy lindo😍#colorado #rifle #mountains #fvp #parati #tiktok 💚🤍🩵
@kimbonill4
34.4K likes • 553.1K views

🚗 Accessing Rifle Falls

Follow GPS to Rifle Mountain Park, look for the kiosk, and drive to Kopers Trailhead. Spikes are a must for icy trails! TikTok

💧 Water Levels Vary

Water levels at Rifle Gap can be lower at the end of the season, affecting boating. Check conditions before you go. Reddit

Visiting Rifle Falls State Park 🏞️ #riflefalls #waterfall #parks #stateparks #waterfalls #nature #greatoutdoors #falls #colorado #rifle #panorama #hike #Hiking
@august.seth
28.3K likes • 349.6K views
Welcome to the virtual tour of Rifle Gap State Park in the serene Rifle, Colorado. This picturesque park is a haven for nature lovers, offering an array of outdoor activities set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Rifle Gap State Park is a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement, from tranquil lakeside views to adventurous trails. Our virtual tour brings these experiences to...
campgroundviews
11 likes • 645 views

🐦 Beware of Magpies

These intelligent birds love to steal food and trash. Keep your campsite clean to avoid issues. Reddit

🛶 Water Sports Galore

Ideal for efoiling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The water colors are stunning! InstagramReddit

COLORADO COLORS🤩 📍Rifle Gap State Park #colorado #coloradogram #riflegap #riflecolorado #rifleco #riflegapstatepark #visitcolorado #coloradohikes #coloradostateparks
wetrippers
227 likes • 7.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Accessing Rifle Falls

Follow GPS to Rifle Mountain Park, look for the kiosk, and drive to Kopers Trailhead. Spikes are a must for icy trails! TikTok

💧 Water Levels Vary

Water levels at Rifle Gap can be lower at the end of the season, affecting boating. Check conditions before you go. Reddit

🐦 Beware of Magpies

These intelligent birds love to steal food and trash. Keep your campsite clean to avoid issues. Reddit

🛶 Water Sports Galore

Ideal for efoiling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The water colors are stunning! InstagramReddit

🚴‍♀️ Nearby Mountain Biking

Explore the Grand Hogback trails, renowned for their flow and challenge, rivaling Fruita and Moab. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(354 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Rifle Gap State Park is praised for its clean facilities, spacious campsites, and stunning reservoir views, offering a great experience for water sports and relaxation. While some find it remote, the nearby attractions like Rifle Falls and excellent mountain biking trails add significant value.

"Nice clean park, we stay on the lower loop with hot showers and flush toilets. Campsites spacious, paved with a covered shelter and fire pit. Don’t miss Rifle Falls SP just a few miles north.
Hard working host. And frequent uniformed rangers visit. The town of Rifle is a few minutes away and has all you need."

Christian Vivet

"June 8, 2024 Camped Friday night to Saturday morning!

June 7, 2024 Ashley and I headed out after work on a Colorado weekend camping and road trip! Our first stop was Blair Ranch Rest Stop, then went to Glenwood Springs and had dinner at Slope & Hatch and got dessert at Smoke BBQ. After we drove to Rifle Gap State Park to camp for free on the public lands!

June 7 & 8, 2024 our beautiful view of Rifle Gap Lake and Sunset from our free camping spot! The next morning we drove over to Rifle Falls State Park Colorado!"

Dani MCDonald

"Great place to go efoiling or paddle boarding or kayaking. If you are a boater and the water is lower at the end of season it is a little small. Both ends are shallow. They must use the water for irrigation.
The bonus is that within 18 miles is the grand hogback mountain biking trails which seem better than Fruita and vie to challenge a lot of Moab much more great trails than McCoy flats too
You have to like flow trails in order to appreciate them. Also the town of Rufke has occasional live music and provisions. It is nearby.
One of the best weeks ever"

Jasen beste

What People Like

Clean restrooms and showers
Spacious campsites
Beautiful reservoir views

What People Dislike

Can be remote
Water levels vary

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rifle Gap State Park is located near Rifle, Colorado. Follow your GPS to the park entrance. For Rifle Falls State Park, follow GPS to Rifle Mountain Park, look for the kiosk, and drive to the Kopers Trailhead. TikTok

Yes, the park is generally well-marked. For Rifle Falls, the kiosk at the entrance is a good indicator you've arrived. TikTok

Rifle Falls State Park is just a few miles north of Rifle Gap State Park, making it an easy drive between the two locations. Reddit

The drive to Rifle Gap State Park itself offers beautiful mountain views. The surrounding areas also provide scenic routes through Colorado's Western Slope. Instagram

While Rifle Gap State Park is accessible in winter, some activities may be limited. However, nearby Rifle Mountain Park offers unique winter experiences like ice caves. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific fee information isn't detailed in the provided content, state parks typically have entrance fees. Camping fees are around $10 per night for first-come, first-served sites. Reddit

State parks are generally open from dawn to dusk, but specific hours for facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may vary. It's best to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the most current information.

While some sites are first-come, first-served, it's highly recommended to book reservations in advance, especially for weekends and peak season, as they fill up quickly. Reddit

Information on discounts is not provided. It's advisable to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for any available passes or discount programs.

Day-use visitors can enjoy the park's amenities, but specific access and any associated fees would need to be confirmed with the park's official resources.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy camping, fishing, boating, windsurfing, jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking on the reservoir. The nearby Rifle Falls offers hiking and exploring ice caves in winter. InstagramReddit

Yes, it offers spacious campsites with amenities like hot showers and flush toilets on the lower loop. Some sites have covered shelters and fire pits. Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing bald eagles and other wildlife. Keep an eye out during your visit! Instagram

While the primary focus is water activities, the park offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the scenery. Nearby Rifle Falls State Park has dedicated hiking trails. TikTok

The restrooms and shower services are noted as being very clean, with no bugs and even soap dispensers provided. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants within Rifle Gap State Park itself. However, the nearby town of Rifle offers various dining options. Reddit

The town of Rifle provides provisions and dining options, including places like Slope & Hatch for dinner and Smoke BBQ for barbecue. Reddit

Yes, campsites are equipped with fire pits, making it ideal for cooking your own meals. Reddit

The town of Rifle is a few minutes away and has all the necessary provisions you might need during your stay. Reddit

Be mindful of magpies, as they are known to steal food and trash. Secure your food properly. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the stunning water colors of the reservoir, vibrant sunrises and sunsets, and occasional wildlife sightings. InstagramReddit

Yes, even with a phone camera, the natural beauty of the park, especially with filters, can result in beautiful shots. TikTok

Early mornings for sunrises and late evenings for sunsets offer the most dramatic lighting. Mid-day can also be great for capturing the vibrant water colors. Reddit

The campsites themselves offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Exploring the shoreline can also yield picturesque spots. InstagramReddit

Rifle Falls State Park is incredibly photogenic with its triple waterfalls and lush greenery, offering numerous angles for stunning shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rifle Gap State Park is a fantastic destination for families. The calm waters of the reservoir are perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking, allowing kids to safely enjoy the water. The clean restrooms and shower facilities are a big plus for families needing convenient amenities. Reddit

Don't miss the nearby Rifle Falls State Park, where the impressive triple waterfall provides an exciting natural spectacle for children to marvel at. The short hikes around the falls are manageable for most kids. Be sure to keep a close eye on children near the water and be aware of the magpies, ensuring snacks and trash are secured to prevent them from being taken. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Boaters

Rifle Gap State Park is a prime spot for fishing and boating. The reservoir is stocked and offers opportunities to catch various fish species. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or from their boats. Reddit

Boaters will find the long, narrow reservoir ideal for cruising, jet-skiing, and windsurfing. While water levels can fluctuate, especially towards the end of the season, the park provides a great venue for a day out on the water. Bringing your own watercraft is highly recommended to fully experience the reservoir. Reddit

🚵‍♀️ Mountain Biking Enthusiasts

While Rifle Gap State Park itself is more focused on water activities, its proximity to some of the best mountain biking trails in Colorado makes it a great base camp. The Grand Hogback trail system, located within 18 miles, is highly acclaimed for its challenging flow trails, often compared favorably to renowned destinations like Fruita and Moab. Reddit

After a day of exhilarating biking, you can return to the park for a relaxing evening by the reservoir or enjoy the clean camping facilities. The town of Rifle also offers provisions and dining, making it a convenient hub for bikers exploring the area's extensive trail networks. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Water Activities at Rifle Gap

Rifle Gap State Park is a paradise for water enthusiasts. The Rifle Gap Reservoir is the park's centerpiece, offering a long, narrow body of water perfect for a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, windsurfing, and jet-skiing on its expansive surface. The water's unique color, shifting from deep blue to turquoise and green depending on depth and sunlight, makes for a visually stunning experience. Instagram+1

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, paddleboarding and kayaking are highly recommended. The calm waters, especially in the mornings, provide an ideal environment for gliding across the reservoir and taking in the serene surroundings. While the end of the season might see lower water levels, making some areas shallow, the overall experience of being on the water is a major draw for visitors. Reddit

Remember to check water levels if you plan on boating, especially later in the season, as they can be affected by irrigation needs. Regardless of your preferred water sport, Rifle Gap State Park offers ample opportunity to enjoy the water in a beautiful mountain setting. Reddit

Camping at Rifle Gap State Park

Camping is a quintessential experience at Rifle Gap State Park, with approximately 30 campsites available. The lower loop is particularly popular, offering amenities such as hot showers and flush toilets, which are noted for their exceptional cleanliness. Reddit Campsites are generally spacious and well-equipped, with many featuring paved pads, covered shelters, and fire pits, providing a comfortable base for your outdoor adventures. Reddit

It's crucial to plan ahead, as these desirable sites, especially those with amenities, tend to fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and during periods of good weather. The Reddit community advises that sites can be first-come, first-served and may fill up fast, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit If you're unable to secure a spot within the park, there are often dispersed camping options available in the surrounding areas, offering a more rustic experience.

Beyond the park's immediate offerings, the nearby town of Rifle provides all the necessary provisions and services, making it convenient for campers. The park's stunning views, including beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the reservoir, add to the overall appeal of camping here. Reddit

Exploring Nearby Natural Wonders

While Rifle Gap State Park offers a fantastic reservoir experience, its proximity to other natural attractions makes it a prime location for exploration. Just a short drive north lies Rifle Falls State Park, a must-visit for its spectacular triple waterfall. This natural wonder is a breathtaking sight, with three distinct cascades plunging side-by-side, surrounded by lush greenery. TikTokInstagram

During the winter months, the area transforms, offering unique opportunities like the ice caves found at Rifle Mountain Park. These caves become a magical wonderland of ice formations, providing a stark contrast to the summer's water activities. Visitors exploring these caves in winter are strongly advised to wear spikes on their footwear due to icy conditions on the trails. TikTok

For adventure seekers, the region boasts world-class mountain biking trails, including the Grand Hogback. These trails are praised for their challenging flow and are considered by some to be comparable to, or even better than, those in renowned biking destinations like Fruita and Moab. Reddit The combination of water activities, stunning waterfalls, unique winter formations, and challenging biking makes the Rifle area a diverse outdoor playground.

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