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Elkhead Reservoir
Overview
Overview
Elkhead Reservoir State Park, located just east of Craig, Colorado, offers a serene escape for travelers seeking a connection with nature. Managed by the State of Colorado, this destination is defined by its expansive 900-acre lake and rolling high-desert terrain. It serves as a quiet recreational retreat for those who enjoy wide-open spaces and the authentic, rugged atmosphere of Northwest Colorado. The park provides a peaceful environment that contrasts sharply with the busier, high-traffic mountain destinations found elsewhere in the state.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of the Yampa Valley, the reservoir is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 40. The surrounding landscape features a mix of sagebrush, juniper, and striking vistas that define the region's high-desert aesthetic. Travelers will find the park situated in a remote, windswept setting that offers beautiful sunsets and dark night skies. Its position makes it a perfect stopover for those traveling between the plains and the deeper canyon lands further west.
Amenities & Park Features
The camping experience at Elkhead Reservoir is designed for those who appreciate a more primitive, back-to-basics approach. While the park lacks full hookup facilities, it provides well-maintained campsites that cater to tents and RVs alike. Visitors will find fire rings and picnic tables at each site, alongside access to vault toilets. The primary draw is the water; the boat ramps and dedicated swimming beaches serve as the central hub for summer activities, allowing for easy access to the reservoir's cool waters.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the water, the reservoir is a premier destination for anglers and birdwatchers. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including smallmouth bass and northern pike, making it a local favorite for fishing enthusiasts. Additionally, the surrounding trails offer excellent opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. Travelers can also visit the nearby town of Craig, which provides a gateway to regional history and essential supplies, or explore the expansive public lands that characterize this part of Moffat County.
Who This Park Is Best For
Elkhead Reservoir is best suited for self-contained RV travelers who prioritize solitude and outdoor access over modern convenience. It is an ideal spot for boating enthusiasts, anglers, and those who want to avoid the crowds of major tourist hubs. If you enjoy boondocking-style camping and want to spend your days on the water or exploring quiet nature trails, this state park offers an authentic, unpretentious Colorado experience that is hard to match.
Features & Amenities
- Tenting
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Dan Taylor
No shade or facilities except vault toilets. I've been harassed by park rangers every time I stop by for day use areas, there are much better parks in the area.
Laurie Thompson
This was a very clean state park with a beautiful reservoir! There is no water available at all at this park! Or dump station!
enrique loera
Nice gravel roads all around to get to the different areas of the Reservoir. Went in July.. So there was some light rain and somewhat gusty winds that messed with one of our tents. We'll kept grounds and park rangers visiting the site areas.
John Kearns
Nice lake but fishing not good. Nice campground but no water or dump. Had to go to Craig and dump at the fairgrounds. Very hot temp and no shade. Could be a nice campground with a few improvements.
Chris Wilkins
Very nice State Park. Clean bathrooms. Campsites looked nice. The staff at the front gate was very helpful. Nice hiking around the reservoir. It would be fun to camp and paddle and fish there.