Ridgway State Park
State Park in Ridgway, CO
Hours:
Park: Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Visitor Center/Office: Daily, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Entrance Fees:
Daily Vehicle Pass: $10
Individual Daily Pass: $4
Animals Permitted:
- Leashed Dogs
- Service Animals
- Horses
Park Address:
28555 Highway 550
Ridgway, CO 81432
United States
Ridgway State Park
State Park in Ridgway, CO
Hours:
Park: Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Visitor Center/Office: Daily, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Entrance Fees:
Daily Vehicle Pass: $10
Individual Daily Pass: $4
Animals Permitted:
- Leashed Dogs
- Service Animals
- Horses
Park Address:
28555 Highway 550
Ridgway, CO 81432
United States
Navigate to:
Sailboats docked on Ridgway Reservoir with San Juan mountains sunset in distance
Park Highlight
Explore the Reservoir
Discover Ridgway Reservoir, a stunning 1,000-acre lake with pristine water and majestic views of the San Juan and Cimarron Mountain ranges, perfect for all your boating adventures, from fishing and water skiing to paddle boarding and kayaking. This beautiful reservoir exists thanks to the Dallas Creek Project, completed in 1987 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to provide vital irrigation and create this incredible recreational haven. Today, it's a collaborative effort managed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Tri-County Water Conservancy District, and Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
Reservoir and Other Facilities
Facilities
Motorized boats must launch and use the four-lane boat ramp in Dutch Charlie. This ramp is suitable for most recreational boat sizes. Please be respectful of other users and be prepared to launch or load before accessing the ramp.
All motorboats and sailboats must go through a mandatory Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) inspection before launching and must have a required ANS Stamp. Trailered and motorized vessels are prohibited from launching in the Dallas Creek area and must be inspected at the ANS station in Dutch Charlie. Please remember to CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY your boat, waders, and other gear before moving between waters.
The ANS inspection station is located at the top of the boat ramp in Dutch Charlie.
For more information, including inspection hours, see the Mandatory Boat Inspections lower on the page.
NOTE: The reservoir is closed to motorized boating from November 1 - March 31.
Nestled above the swim beach in Dutch Charlie, the Blue Heron Marina and Snack Shop offers a delightful array of amenities and rentals for both casual visitors and water enthusiasts alike. The Snack Shop is stocked with refreshing ice cream, cold beverages, ice, and a variety of snacks to satisfy any craving. For those wishing to commemorate their visit, the shop also features apparel and novelties. Anglers will find a selection of fishing tackle and bait to suit most needs.
The marina provides an assortment of rental options. For more information, see the Marina Rentals accordion below.
Marina Hours:
The Marina opens May 15. It will be open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Labor Day. After this date, hours will be limited, as staffing allows.
Questions? Marina staff can be reached at 970-318-9689 or 970-626-5822, extension 21. You can also email them at [email protected].
The Blue Heron Marina provides an assortment of rental options available May through September, including slips, buoys, pontoon boats, pedal boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and towables such as ski tubes and hot dogs. Reservations are available for all rentals and short-term slips and buoys. For more information on pricing not included below and/or to reserve rentals, call the Marina at (970) 318-9689.
You can also borrow life jackets, fishing poles and tackle boxes from the marina office, free of charge.
Pontoon Boats
There are three pontoon boats available for rent.
- Two nine-person capacity pontoons with:
- 60hp motor, depth/fishfinder, optional towables available for rent, swim ladder, fishing pole racks
- Inflatable towables: Additional $25 half day or $50 full day
- One 5- to 7-capacity pontoon with:
- 40hp motor, live well, stereo w/Bluetooth, depth/fishfinder, swim ladder, fishing pole racks
Pontoon Rental Pricing
- Half day: $250 + tax, 9 am to 1 pm or 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm
- Full day : $400 + tax, 9 am to 5 pm
- Overnight: add $150
Short-term Slip and Buoy Rental
Short-term boat slip and buoy rentals can be reserved in advance through the call center at 1-800-244-5613. Reservations made with less than a week in advance can be made in person or by calling the marina store at 970-318-9689.
Slip Rental Pricing
- $35 per night
- $175 per week
Buoy Pricing
- $30 per night
- $150 per week
Slip and Buoy Rental Guidelines
- Maximum 30-ft boat length
- Two slips available for under 24 ft
- Two slips for 24-ft to 30-ft boat length
- No electricity, fuel services or pump services available
- Maximum 14 days stay allowed in any 28-day period
- Buoy tender available for buoy rentals, free of charge
- $500,000 liability insurance coverage required for all slip and buoy rentals
Seasonal Slips and Buoys
Seasonal slips and buoys are in very high demand at the Blue Heron Marina. Please fill out the out the Marina Waitlist Form to be added to the waitlist.
Dry Storage
Ridgway State Park also offers dry storage for RVs, boats and other vehicles. Currently, this is a yearly lease at a rate of $400 per year. Please fill out the Dry Storage Waitlist Form to be added to the waitlist.
Cast your line and reel in memories at Ridgway State Park's three fantastic fishing piers! Enjoy accessible, year-round angling opportunities at all three piers, including two excellent spots within Pa-Co-Chu-Puk—one along the picturesque Uncompahgre River just off the paved River Walk Trail and another at the serene Pericles fishing pond. The third pier is conveniently located near the boat ramp on the Fish Tale Trail.
All three piers offer wheelchair accessible access, making them perfect for anglers of all abilities, offering a relaxing and rewarding experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the park.
For your convenience and to help protect our wildlife, Ridgway State Park offers two dedicated fish cleaning stations. You'll find one in the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area, located next to the bathroom south of the ponds, and another in Dutch Charlie, by the boat ramp bathrooms and the beginning of the Fish Tail Trail.
These stations provide running water, cleaning surfaces, and proper waste disposal, making it easy to hygienically clean your catch away from campsites and public areas. By using these facilities, especially in bear country, you help reduce bear encounters, prevent food conditioning, and ensure the safety of both visitors and bears, all while keeping the park clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Cool off and have a blast at Ridgway State Park's seasonal swim beach in Dutch Charlie! Please remember to follow all posted regulations when visiting the beach. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the beach area. Please use caution, as there are no lifeguards on duty. The swim beach is monitored for water quality per Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) guidelines and may be closed if E. coli levels exceed safe limits.
For ADA accessible access to the beach shoreline, an access mat is available, floating swim chairs, and an accessible paddle board can be picked up at the Marina office to assist with mobility-impaired beach and water access.
After your swim, grab a treat or souvenir at the nearby Blue Heron Marina and Snack Shop, offering everything from ice cream to rentals for more on-water fun.
In addition to the swim beach, you'll find convenient outdoor showers, flush restrooms, picnic tables and picnic shelters, drinking fountains, a large grass lounging area, and a playground for added enjoyment.
Swimming is also allowed across most of Ridgway Reservoir, though it's important to remember that all swimming is at your own risk, and unmarked underwater hazards are present. There are no-swimming zones within Mears Bay, the dam slipway, the Uncompahgre River inflow within Dallas Creek, and all waters within the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area are closed to swimming.
For safety, swimmers should use surface markers, wear personal flotation devices, and use caution around boaters or in high boat traffic areas.
Ridgway State Park offers a variety of fantastic facilities for your next group event or getaway. The Visitor Center Overlook provides a beautiful wedding venue with stunning mountain and reservoir views. For larger events like picnics or reunions, the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk event shelters are available from May to September, equipped with amenities for groups up to 250.
If you're looking for a group camping adventure, The Eddy Group Campground boasts a full kitchen, ADA campsites, and ample amenities by the Uncompahgre River.
Additionally, Ridgway State Park features four distinct Group Picnic Areas, perfect for smaller gatherings. All event and group reservations require a Colorado State Parks pass. Find more information and make reservations on our Group & Event Space page or call the park office at 970-626-5822.
Experience the best of Colorado camping at Ridgway State Park, offering a variety of options year-round for every type of adventurer. Choose from 282 campsites across three main campgrounds—Dakota Terraces, Elk Ridge, and Pa-Co-Chu-Puk—each providing convenient amenities like camper service buildings with showers, flush restrooms, laundromats, and playgrounds. Sites range from 30-amp electric hookups and shared water to full 50-amp hookups, with scenic views and basic walk-in tent options available. For a unique glamping experience, our cozy yurts are available year-round, complete with microwaves, refrigerators, outdoor grills, and comfortable furnishings for up to six guests, with pet-friendly options.
Groups can enjoy The Eddy Group Campground in Pa-Co-Chu-Puk, featuring 15 campsites with water and electrical hookups, an RV dump station, a large group tent area, a unique group hammock stand, a full kitchen, ADA facilities, a spacious shade pavilion, and a large group campfire area perfect for all gatherings.
Even in winter, selected campground loops remain open with plowed and shoveled, reservable sites, heated restrooms with showers, and a year-round RV dump station, providing a serene snowy escape.
All campsites require a reservation and a Colorado State Park pass for each day of your stay. Reservations are available up to six months in advance online or by calling 1 (800) 244-5613; accessible campsites are available and must be reserved by phone. For additional information about camping at Ridgway State Park visit our Camping & Lodging page.
There are 87 picnicking sites located throughout the park, including some near the swim beach and playgrounds. Explore the beauty of Ridgway and retire to a picturesque setting for a picnic. Many picnicking sites are universally accessible and offer the comforts of shade shelters, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and nearby restrooms and water hydrants. For additional information visit the Ridgway State Park Activities & Trails page.
Boating and Fishing
Boating
The 1,000-acre reservoir offers various recreational boating activities like fishing, water skiing, tubing, sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. See Facilities > Boat Ramps above for more information on launching.
All motorboats and sailboats must go through a mandatory Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Inspection before launching and must have a required ANS Stamp. For more information, including inspection hours, see the Mandatory Boat Inspections lower on the page.
For safety, operate at wakeless speeds near the boat ramp, within 150 feet of shore anglers, and as marked by buoys. The reservoir's water levels change often, unmarked and submerged hazards exist, and caution is advised. Before launching, verify that all required safety equipment is present and in good condition, there are properly sized life jackets for all occupants, and the boat registration is valid. All boating activities are undertaken at the operators' and occupants' own risk.
Boaters must follow all Colorado's boating statutes and regulations. Download the Colorado Boating Handbook (En Español) or pick one up at the park Visitor Center.
Fishing
Whether you choose to leisurely troll the reservoir in a boat, dunk a nightcrawler from shore, or gracefully cast a nymph on the river, Ridgway presents excellent fishing opportunities for everyone.
Always remember to CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY your fishing gear to prevent the spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS).
To report any wildlife-related offenses at the park, please call a ranger at 970-778-1393.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is allowed when conditions permit. Please use caution when ice fishing. Have proper safety equipment and follow safety guidelines.
Fish Species and Bag Limits
The reservoir is home to rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, splake, and recently introduced walleye. Visit the CPW Fish Identification page for more information on each species.
All legal fishing methods are permitted on the reservoir, adhering to current regulations and bag and possession limits. Fishing in the Uncompahgre River tailwaters (below Ridgway Dam) is restricted to catch and release, with flies and lures only.
Please consult the current Colorado Fishing Regulations Brochure (En Español) for specific regulations, season dates, and applicable bag and possession limits. A fishing license is required for all individuals aged 16 and older.
Fishing Awards and Records
Colorado Parks and Wildlife awards anglers who catch big fish. Visit the Fishing Awards and Records page for more records.
Clean Your Gear: Fishing
Help Protect Colorado Waters
Clean Your Gear
Cleaning your gear before and after use helps protect our water from aquatic nuisance species. Check out these videos to learn how to clean your fishing gear.
Fishing at Pa-Co-Chu-Puck
The Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area at Ridgway State Park offers fantastic fishing opportunities on the Uncompahgre River below the dam. Here, you'll discover a one-mile section of catch-and-release-only waters where only artificial flies and lures are permitted. This makes for an exciting challenge for anglers of all skill levels, and great fishing days can happen any time of year. You can find more detailed fishing regulations for special waters in the Colorado Fishing Regulations Brochure (En Español).
Please be aware that river flows can fluctuate suddenly, and no boating or tubing is allowed in this section.
For a more relaxed fishing experience, the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area also features two regularly stocked ponds: Shavano Pond, closest to the river, and Pericles Pond, located further east. These ponds are abundant with rainbow trout, offering excellent chances to reel in a catch. Conveniently, you'll find an accessible fishing pier on the east side of Pericles Pond for easy fishing access.
After a successful day of fishing, utilize the fish cleaning station located next to the bathroom south of the ponds. Cleaning your catch at this station helps minimize attractants for local wildlife.
Fishing Ridgway Reservoir
Ridgway Reservoir offers fantastic fishing for anglers of all skill levels, whether you prefer trolling from a boat or casting from shore. The reservoir is home to a variety of sport fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, splake, and recently introduced walleye.
Please be aware that smallmouth bass have been illegally introduced into the reservoir; current regulations require that all smallmouth bass caught in Ridgway Reservoir must be immediately killed and not returned to the water.
Shoreline anglers often find success, especially on the south shore of Mears Bay, where it opens into the main body of the reservoir; using baits like PowerBait, worms, or a variety of small lures can be very effective.
When trolling, experiment with different depths and speeds, and consider using dodgers or flashers ahead of your lure to attract fish.
Conveniently located near the Dutch Charlie boat ramp is a modern, universally accessible fishing pier.
After a successful day, utilize the fish cleaning station located next to the bathroom beside the boat ramp to easily clean your catch and help minimize attractants for local wildlife.
Fishing at Dallas Creek
For a unique fishing experience at Ridgway State Park, head to the Dallas Creek section, offering a long shoreline with convenient access and parking. This area is ideal for both river and reservoir fishing, with prime spots near where the Uncompahgre River meets the main reservoir. You can expect to catch rainbow trout and brown trout.
When fishing from shore, try using baits like PowerBait, worms, or small lures. Casting near submerged structures or where the current creates eddies can be particularly productive. During their autumn run, from September 1 to December 31, you can even try snagging Kokanee salmon where Dallas Creek and the Uncompahgre River merge.
Please be aware that smallmouth bass have been illegally introduced; current regulations require that all smallmouth bass caught must be immediately killed and not returned to the water.
Remember that only hand-launched non-motorized vessels are permitted to launch in Dallas Creek.
Be aware that water levels can change rapidly, and this is a no-wake area with many paddle craft, so exercise caution while boating.
Bring the Brochures with You
Fishing Brochure
Read up on the location you want to fish before you head out.
Download the BrochureLand and Water Regulations Brochure
Have a question about regulations? Check the brochure.
Download the BrochureBoating Regulations Handbook
Boaters, please follow all Colorado's boating statutes and regulations.
Download the BrochureACCESSIBILITY
Water Activities for Visitors with Disabilities
Welcome to Ridgway State Park, a truly accessible destination designed for visitors of all abilities! Here, you can easily enjoy the beauty of the reservoir and its surroundings, with accessible facilities, swim beach, and shower buildings readily available. For those who love the water, the park offers specialized equipment like Mobi-Chairs for swimming and wading at the swim beach, and a spacious SOLFiesta wheelchair paddleboard, ensuring everyone can experience the joy of the lake. For more information, to make a reservation, or inquire about availability, please call the park Visitor Center at 970-626-5822.
Anglers can cast their lines from three fantastic fishing piers that offer year-round, wheelchair-accessible opportunities, including two within the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area and one near the Dutch Charlie boat ramp, promising a relaxing and rewarding fishing experience amidst the stunning natural scenery.
Ridgway State Park offers accessible boating opportunities at the Dutch Charlie area, easily reached from Highway 550. If possible, boaters with disabilities are encouraged to board their vessel before entering the launch area, or use the courtesy dock for easier access with assistance. When boarding, consider using a sturdy ramp or a transfer board from the dock or shore to your boat. Transfer boards are available to barrow at the Blue Heron Marina. For any additional assistance or information, please contact the Blue Heron Marina at 970-318-9689. Always remember to prioritize safety when loading and unloading. Please ensure all required safety equipment is onboard, life jackets are properly sized, and you are aware of changing water levels and any submerged hazards.
Visitors with disabilities will find a welcoming and accessible environment for enjoying the water and swim beach in the Dutch Charlie area. The swim beach area is conveniently located near the Blue Heron Marina Store and provides accessible amenities including outdoor showers, flush restrooms, picnic tables and shelters, drinking fountains and a large beach access ramp.
We believe everyone should have the chance to experience the beauty of nature. That's why we offer "The Lakefront Lending Locker," our accessible equipment loaner program. Think of it like a library for outdoor gear designed to help people with mobility impairments enjoy the park to the fullest. We loan out specialized equipment, making adventures that might otherwise be challenging, easy and fun.
Mobi-Chair: These are high-quality, floating beach wheelchairs that allow both adults and children with accessibility needs to enjoy swimming and wading at the swim beach. Their unique wheels and armrests help them float and move easily on sand and soft surfaces, so you can comfortably get right to the water's edge and beyond.
Accessible Paddleboard (SOLFiesta): For those who love to get out on the water, we have a specially designed SOLFiesta accessible paddleboard. Measuring five feet six inches wide and fifteen feet six inches long, this stable board has rings to mount various accessible supports, making it a fantastic way to paddle and explore the reservoir.
Mobi-Mat: An accessible Mobi-Mat is available to help with beach shoreline access.
To reserve a Mobi-Chair or the accessible paddleboard, or for any questions regarding swim beach accessibility, please contact the Blue Heron Marina at 970-318-9689. You can also reserve the Mobi-Chair and Adaptive Paddleboard using the reservation form.
Cast your line and reel in memories at Ridgway State Park's three fantastic fishing piers! Enjoy accessible, year-round angling opportunities at all three piers, including two excellent spots within Pa-Co-Chu-Puk — one along the picturesque Uncompahgre River just off the paved River Walk Trail and another at the serene Pericles fishing pond. The third pier is conveniently located near the boat ramp on the Fish Tale Trail. All three piers offer wheelchair accessible access, making them perfect for anglers of all abilities, offering a relaxing and rewarding experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the park.
Mandatory Boat Inspections for ANS at Ridgway
To boat on the reservoir, an aquatic nuisance species (ANS) stamp, current boat registration and a pre-launch boat inspection at the boat ramp is required. Trailered and motorized vessels are prohibited from launching in the Dallas Creek area and must be inspected at the ANS station in Dutch Charlie.
Vessels and other floating devices that are both hand-launched and human-powered are exempt from mandatory ANS inspections. Although, the public is strongly encouraged to self-inspect their watercrafts, boots, waders, and fishing equipment before moving between waters by making sure that all equipment is clean, drained, and dry. For instructions, see Clean Your Gear.
Learn more about aquatic nuisance species.
Inspection Hours
The ANS inspection station is located at the top of the boat ramp in Dutch Charlie.
Inspection hours are as follows:
April 1 to May 1: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
May 1 to Memorial Day: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Memorial Day to Labor Day: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Labor Day to October 1: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
October: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Reservoir closed to motorized boating from November 1 - March 31
Aquatic Nuisance Species
Aquatic nuisance species (ANS) are aquatic plants and animals that invade lakes, reservoirs, rivers and streams, including zebra mussel, quagga mussel, New Zealand mudsnail, Asian carp, rusty crayfish and more.
Stop the Spread of ANSOh, SHELL NO
Be a Pain in the ANS
Recreation in Colorado’s water could be impacted by the spread of invasive species in the water. Aquatic nuisance species(ANS) are invasive species that damage bodies of water. This can have huge impacts on many of the industries and products we all know and love: wine, corn, beer, peaches, drinking water, outdoor recreation and many more. If you’re recreating in the water, you can be a Pain in the ANS — and stop the spread of invasive species. Take Action: Clean, drain and dry your watercraft and gear.
Water Activities
Paddleboarding
Take in the park's stunning mountain views as you engage in a fun, full-body workout. Paddleboards can be rented at the marina and the Dallas Creek site. The combination of high-mountain winds, cold waters, and potential exhaustion creates a higher level of risk and an absolute necessity for safety precautions. All paddleboarders should have a life jacket on board, and it's highly recommended to wear it while paddling. All children under 13 must wear a life jacket.
Swimming
Cool off at Ridgway State Park's Dutch Charlie designated swim beach, or swim at your own risk across most of the reservoir. When swimming outside the designated swim beach, it is suggested to always use surface markers and personal flotation devices and be cautious around boaters and unmarked hazards. Swimming is prohibited in Mears Bay around the boat ramp and buoy field, at the spillway, the Uncompahgre River inflow within Dallas Creek, and all waters in the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk area. Please use caution as there are no lifeguards on duty.
Water Skiing
The warm weather during the summer season makes Ridgway Reservoir extremely attractive for water skiers and wakeboarders alike. Remember you must have an observer on board, in addition to the operator, and wear your life jacket. Watch for floating driftwood during times of rapid runoff, and don't forget your orange flag! Always follow Colorado boating laws and remember to CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY your equipment to protect our waters.
Kayaking
Paddle your way through the stunning waters of Ridgway Reservoir! Kayaking here offers incredible views of the San Juan Mountains and diverse areas to explore, from open waters to quieter coves. Hand-launch your kayak at Dallas Creek for a serene experience, or use the four-lane boat ramp at Dutch Charlie. Remember to always prioritize safety, be aware of changing water levels and other boaters, and practice "CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY" to protect our waters.
Sailing
Experience the joy of sailing on Ridgway Reservoir, where consistent and favorable winds make for an ideal day on the water. Sailors will appreciate the convenient new mast lift at the Dutch Charlie boat ramp, designed to make setting up your sailboat a breeze. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or new to the sport, the expansive 1,000-acre reservoir offers plenty of room to catch the wind and enjoy the stunning mountain vistas. Remember to always follow Colorado's boating regulations and practice "CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY" to help protect our beautiful waters.
Fishing
The park offers excellent fishing opportunities on both the Uncompahgre River and Ridgway Reservoir. Anglers can target rainbow trout, brown trout, walleye, and kokanee salmon. The river below the dam features a catch-and-release, artificial flies and lures only section, while the reservoir allows trolling and shore fishing for a variety of species. Remember to always follow Colorado's fishing regulations and practice "CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY" to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species.
Borrow Equipment
Forget your gear? The Visitor Center, Dallas Creek entrance station, boat ramp and marina office all have gear you can borrow while you're at the park.
Life Jackets
Did you forget to bring your life jacket? Loaner life jackets are available at the Dallas Creek entrance station, the boat ramp and the marina office located at the swim beach.
Fishing Equipment
Loaner fishing poles and tackle boxes are available from the Visitor Center and the marina office.
Accessible Equipment
Don't let not having outdoor adaptive gear stop you from enjoying Ridgway State Park. The Lakefront Lending Locker is available, offering accessible water gear including paddleboards and swim chairs. It's an easy way to get out on the water and make some lasting memories. For more information, contact either the park Visitor Center or Blue Heron Marina and see the Activities for Visitors with Disabilities section above.